New SecuROM in Sims 3 ?

As you might have already heard EA is plans to use a new version of SecuROM in their upcoming game Spore, also Bioware will use it in Mass Effect. The protection will be particulary nasty it will require online activation to play the game. Also every ten days your serial will be checked online, so if you're using pirated serial your game will be blocked.

Gamers already protested against that scheme, as it basically forces you to have internet connection even though you want to play singleplayer game. Some people already stated that they will not purchase the game. However if you don't care about software calling home you could be better for players, as you won't need a cd to play the game.

The only thing that makes me wonder is how long will it take for pirates to produce a crack that removes the protection completely.