Tech Watch: Aereo Streaming Service Earns Big Win

SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS) – Aereo, an online streaming service, has earned a major victory in court in its battle against major television networks.

On Thursday, Judge Alison Nathan for the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York rejected a requested preliminary injunction against the service. The major television networks had requested that Aereo be stopped from rebroadcasting their programs over the Internet.

CNET Editor at Large Brian Cooley:

How does Aereo work? Basically, subscribers pay a monthly fee that allows them to receive and record programs on any Internet-connected device over a tiny antenna. The service connects the tiny TV antennas to the Internet, allowing subscribers to watch over-the-air television.

The service was hit with two complaints from the major television networks earlier this year. The broadcasters had complained that Aereo needs permission to distribute their shows, arguing that the service is illegal.

This is expected to be the first of many battles in court between the two sides. Currently, Aereo is only available in New York.

You can hear Brian Cooley's Tech Watch report Tuesdays and Thursdays at 1:50 P.M. on KCBS All News 740AM and 106.9FM.

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