[Phil Lelyveld comment: This is a surprise, but understandable.  I’ve known the Widevine folks for years.  They have very good technology, and credibility in the marketplace.]

Google announced today that it will acquire Widevine Technologies, giving it access to technology necessary to securely deliver video to a wide range of connected devices. The acquisition is more than just a technology play on Google’s part; the Widevine purchase will also bring deep Hollywood relationships and improve its chances of getting Google TV deployed on consumer electronics devices.

full story here: http://gigaom.com/video/google-widevine-acquisition/