Normally I don't post anything seen on Digg or other popular sites but this needs more exposure. If the clip isn't enough, read the whole article right here. It's bad enough if the networks collude with cable companies to remove features from recorders... but what is really offensive is how they will likely find a way to make working around their nonsense a crime, or if not illegal simply impractical through civil suits.

ABC HAS HELD DISCUSSIONS ON the use of technology that would disable the fast-forward button on DVRs, according to ABC President of Advertising Sales Mike Shaw, with the primary goal to allow TV commercials to run as intended.

"I would love it if the MSOs, during the deployment of the new DVRs they're putting out there, would disable the fast-forward [button]," Shaw said. <...>

Shaw also threw cold water on the idea that neutering the fast-forward option would result in a consumer backlash. He suggested that consumers prefer DVRs for their ability to facilitate on-demand viewing and not ad-zapping--and consumers might warm to the idea that anytime viewing brings with it a tradeoff in the form of unavoidable commercial viewing.