I would bet that many of the people against Audible’s attempt to solve this high value problem are also against Apple’s AAC, Microsoft’s WMV, Adobe’s PDF and other proprietary formats – which at least shows some consistency, depsite the fact that these proprietary formats persist to this day in a world dominated by MP3 and MPG. I am totally behind open source, the commons, MP3 format and open data exchange, but at the same time, I am practical in regards to the realities of the world around us. The fact is that most people do not see the world as black & white in regards to these sorts of issues. Most just want it to work as they require for their specific needs as we have discussed time and time again.

A well worded, persuasive argument regarding why Audible should adopt an older format of MP3 which did not account for podcasting might go a long way to convincing them to change their minds. The trouble is that I dont think any of the points that could be made (at least what I have seen) present a solid business case for such a decision.

Not everyone can afford to give away everything for free and continue to exist despite what many would like to believe. Kudos to Audible for trying to solve the problem and taking the risks involved with promoting the new format. My guess is that the consumers will vote with their wallets and Audible will survive the day as they focus on what comes after the chasm is crossed instead of those of us on this side of the precipice looking across wondering what the mass market will do.

It is kind of funny and kind of sad that eventhough I choose not to attack or support any one person, several people will probably dislike me for stating my opinions. Such is life in silicon valley and having conversations with other smart people who are passionate about what they do… For this I am thankful, and to Mike’s point, very entertained.

http://mashable.com/2005/11/14/if-mp3-wont-do-what-next-for-podcasting/

The point here is that Audible is doing something that MP3 simply can’t do. Whether you think proprietary systems are evil is another matter. Perhaps we simply need open systems for measuring podcasts – but the point Mitch is making is that Audible is the only service that can do this right now.