Buying digital goods can be a convenient way to access content, but it’s important to understand what you’re actually purchasing. With the new law signed by Governor Gavin Newsom in California, online storefronts like Steam are now required to be clear about whether customers own the digital goods they’re buying or if they’re just purchasing a license to access the content.
This change has already been implemented on Steam, where customers are now notified that they’re purchasing a license for the product, rather than owning it outright. This means that if the content becomes unavailable for any reason, customers may not be entitled to access it indefinitely.
It’s a reminder that when you buy digital goods, you’re essentially paying for permission to access the content provided by the service. This is different from buying a digital download, where you own the files and can keep them even if they’re no longer available on the platform.
The new wording on Steam applies to customers worldwide, not just in the United States. This move towards transparency in digital ownership rights is aimed at protecting consumers and ensuring that they understand what they’re getting when they make a purchase.
As more governments look to regulate digital storefronts, it’s likely that we’ll see similar changes implemented across the board. Understanding your rights as a digital consumer is important, and being aware of the terms and conditions when making a purchase can help you make more informed decisions about where and how you spend your money.
So next time you’re browsing for digital goods, take a moment to read the fine print and make sure you know what you’re getting yourself into. With clearer regulations and more transparency from online storefronts, consumers can shop with confidence knowing that their digital purchases are protected by law.
