And this is good for who?

For the "Not Surprising" file:

"The Copyright Register recently announced its decision that ringtones do not constitute derivative works, and as such are covered by Section 115 -- a statute originally written to create a market for the distribution of piano rolls in 1909. "


And what's in it for songwriters and composers? Apparent not much.

"the decision is part of an ongoing battle between the RIAA (record labels) and industry songwriters/publishers. The RIAA wanted to be able to distribute ringtones without securing new licenses from songwriters, who technically own the composition."

Read the rest here.