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AltConf streaming of WWDC content cancelled (and then not)

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AltConf has received a letter from Apple’s legal representatives demanding that AltConf refrain from streaming or displaying any video content from the Apple Worldwide Develper Conference.

This includes the Keynote and State of the Union stream on Monday, June 8, which has been a part of the AltConf program for the last few years. This also affects the Viewing Room, where video sessions from WWDC were going to be shown in the hopes to create a collective place where AltConf attendees could view and discuss WWDC content together.

All AltConf speaking sessions have remained untouched and will proceed as scheduled. Hero tickets are unaffected, as these only apply to seating in the two speaking theaters of AltConf.
According to the correspondence from Apple’s legal representatives, “Apple exercises control over not only the content of its messaging, but also the manner in which those messages are packaged, distributed and delivered.” AltConf’s streaming of Apple content “would strip Apple of exclusive control over one of the most anticipated events of the year, and could deprive Apple of potential revenue generated from its exclusive rights.” Thus, AltConf must “refrain from publicly streaming or showing any WWDC content. Apple further demands that AltConf and each of its organizers refrain from reproducing or distributing any WWDC content belonging to Apple, in any manner.”

AltConf (http://altconf.com) is the “alternative developer conference.” It’s held in downtown San Francisco at the AMC Metreon with 1,000 seats spread over three theaters and live streamed. It runs alongside Apple‘s WWDC, June 8-12, 2015.

Update: AltConf organizers were able to get Apple’s approval and it’s now back on.

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