Streaming television rebroadcaster Aereo won another victory in their ongoing copyright fight with television broadcasters trying to shut the service down. Aereo is a technology company based in New York City that allows subscribers to view live as well as time-shifted video of over-the-air television on the Internet. As I have reported before, this new, disruptive technology has the current establishment in an uproar.
According to the ruling, broadcasters “have not demonstrated that they are likely to prevail on the merits of this claim in their copyright infringement action.”
The loss in the Second Circuit caused Chase Carey, COO of News Corp. to state, it might actually get out of the free-TV business. Fox network founder Barry Diller started Aereo service trials last year in New York City.
A group of broadcasters, including Fox and PBS, immediately issued a statement after the ruling was announced calling it “a loss for the entire creative community, the court has ruled that it is ok to steal copyrighted material and retransmit it without compensation.”
On the other hand, consumer advocates were far more pleased with the ruling. Consumer group Public Knowledge called the ruling “a victory for consumer choice and video innovation.” ”
The case is far from over, but currently Aereo seems to have the upper hand.
How Can I Help?
Disruptive technologies are emerging faster than ever. Although Aereo has stayed within the law, new technology may test the bounds of what is legal.
If you have a work that needs Copyright protection, or know someone that can use my help, please contact me for a free 30 minute consultation at nvantreeck@usip.com or call TOLL FREE at 1-855-UR IDEAS (1-855-874-3327) and ask for Norman.
– Ex astris, scientia –
I am and avid amateur astronomer and intellectual property attorney in Pasadena, California. As a former Chief Petty Officer in the U.S. Navy, I am a proud member of the Armed Service Committee of the Los Angeles County Bar Association working to aid all active duty and veterans in our communities. Connect with me on Google +
Norman