Digital Home Thoughts: The H.264 License is Supposed to Scare

"A recent blog post by Harvard Ph.D. student Ben Schwartz, including the provocative phrase "Final Cut Pro Hobbyist," put the spotlight on license terms in Apple's video-editing software by questioning when professionals may use H.264 video."

It is everywhere. YouTube uses it. Apple uses it. Chances are, your digital camcorder uses it. H.264 is the most popular high definition codec that seems poised to take over. However, as several other people have noticed, the licensing that comes with software programs that allow you to edit those videos seems very daunting. The good news is that for casual use and over the Internet, you are in the clear. However, if your sights turn to more professional endeavors, be sure to read what is required of you. You do not have to use H.264, but the competing codecs are not as widely supported which I find to be sadly disappointing. The good news is that at least until 2015, those of you who are aspiring to be Internet video stars do not have to worry!