[android42]

If the provider made it available for purchase (not subscription), the liability should go to them first to make DRM free copies available for those who purchased it before shutting down the service. If they are unable to do so, e.g. a sudden bankruptcy, then the liability could go to the copyright holder to find another provider to continue the service and transfer purchases, or provide DRM free copies (either should not be a problem if they are still making money from the given IP). In the event they are no longer making enough money from that IP and wish to just rid their hands of it, it becomes public domain.

[Repulsion9513]

> then the liability could go to the copyright holder to find another provider

And they'll choose the crappiest provider they possibly can whose website (no app, presumably) only works in some ancient browser and is "down for maintenance" 50% of the time because that provider has the lowest costs and is thus willing to charge the least for it...

[android42]

Yep, there would definitely need to be some regulations to prevent that sort of thing as well. I could see this becoming a business where companies are paid to take on this liability of distribution for copyright holders that meets some minimum defined threshold. Ideally it would be as seamless as the prior service if locked, or just reasonable download speeds if DRM free.