Aereo Launches Streaming TV Service Amid Lawsuits From New York Stations

By Andrew Gauthier 

Aereo launched its streaming TV service today in New York, even as the companies behind every major station in the market do their best to shut it down.

For $12 a month, Aereo offers subscribers the ability to watch live, broadcast TV online, and to record up to 40 hours of programming on a cloud-based DVR.

“Technology is changing rapidly and consumers have embraced innovation that simplifies access to entertainment,” Aereo founder and CEO Chet Kanojia said.  “People no longer want to be tethered to their TVs or cable boxes.  Consumers are demanding more flexibility and value; Aereo delivers just that.”

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While emphasizing their commitment to innovation, the broadcasters suing Aereo, including Fox, CBS, and NBCU-Comcast, argue that the streaming TV service violates their copyrights.

Aereo, which is backed by former TV executive Barry Diller, countered this week with a lawsuit of its own.

Diller expects the service to be available in 75 to 100 markets within a year.

The company is now offering a 90-day free trial.

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