Introduction of the Content ID Forum (cIDf)

To realize various applications for content distribution via networks, the unique content identifier (Content ID) is indispensable. It can be used for negotiating secondary content use, automatic royalty sharing, content search and exchange, and illegal use detection. In August 1999, responding to a call from Prof. Dr. Hiroshi Yasuda at Univ of Tokyo, the Content ID Forum (cIDf) was established in Japan and began to construct a framework for contents distribution promotion while protecting copyrights. This document overviews the cIDf specifications and its activities.