In the present case, Albert's property interest in his computer program is protected by copyright without any need of formalities. Copyright protects the original expression of ideas by giving the creator the exclusive right to reproduce or copy the material. There are many different ways of expressing an idea, and copyright is recognised as arising in respect not only of books, but also in relation to screenplays and films, written and performed music, sound recordings, newspapers, magazines, artwork, media broadcasts, and computer programs and databases. This list is not exhaustive.
It is important to distinguish between an idea itself, which is not protected by copyright, and the expression of an idea in an original way in a work or performance, which is protected. Thus, the idea of a story involving a princess, a poisoned apple and a handsome prince cannot be copyrighted but a book telling such a story in original words, or a song telling the story, can be copyrighted.
As soon as an idea is expressed in a particular form, the creator's interest is automatically protected by copyright. There is no official register or application process for copyright protection to arise.
Ownership of copyright can be transferred by agreement to another person. If the owner of copyright wishes to retain ownership of the copyright but allow another person to reproduce and publish their work, these rights can be granted by means of a licence. In such cases the copyright owner usually has the right to receive payments called royalties.