How to Screenshot Frames from DRM-Protected Video on Apple Devices

Have you ever tried to take a screenshot of a memorable moment from your favorite show or movie, only to be met with a frustrating black box instead? If you’re an Apple user, you’re not alone. Many streaming platforms, like Netflix, HBO Max, Amazon Prime, and the Criterion Channel, have imposed restrictions on taking screenshots from their content on Macintosh computers.

While PC users have the advantage of using the Snipping Tool to capture images from any streaming platform, Mac users are left out in the cold due to advanced digital-rights-management technology. This choice to exclude Mac users has left many wondering why they have been singled out. It seems that the integration between Apple’s hardware and software makes it impossible to bypass these DRM protections at a high level, unlike the case with Windows.

Interestingly, there is a workaround for Mac users who use Chrome. By disabling hardware acceleration in Chrome’s settings, users can bypass the DRM protections and capture stills from videos. While not a practical solution for everyday browsing, it’s a useful trick for those looking to capture those elusive moments.

The real question remains: why does Apple continue to support this hardware-accelerated video blocking when it serves no real purpose? The restriction on taking screenshots of DRM-protected content only creates obstacles for genuine users who want to capture high-quality images from their favorite entertainment. This feature does not deter piracy and only adds unnecessary frustration for those trying to engage with the content in a meaningful way.

Ultimately, the inability to take screenshots of DRM-protected video on Apple devices poses a significant roadblock for many users who simply want to capture and share memorable moments from their favorite shows and movies. Hopefully, in the future, there will be a more user-friendly solution to this problem that allows everyone to enjoy their streaming experience to the fullest.