The Supreme Court will make its decision on Aereo streaming come this week, though it is not certain which date. Some are saying Monday while others say up to Thursday or the following Monday.
The ruling should determine whether or not Aereo is breaking the law with its streaming of live network stations over the Internet. Back in 2012, the start-up began offering folks in New York cloud DVR storage and 28 channels for $8 per month. This turned out to be a huge success, which caused TV networks to react.
To provide service, the company uses digital antennas to record live shows. User subscription allows for the streaming of these channels on their computer, Android and iOS devices. The option is even there to stream via Roku or Apple TV.
This move was welcomed with open arms by cord cutters as the service expanded into 10 markets, which includes Dallas, Detroit, Boston, Atlanta and Miami. The company is planning to expand further into other markets, a move that could cause TV networks to become more hostile.
Back in January, the Supreme Court agreed to hear what broadcasters had to say about Aereo streaming live TV content. They claim that Aereo must pay broadcasters a share of the spoils, but Aereo believes this shouldn't be the case because the company is not breaking copyright law.
As per Aereo, it rents subscribers antennas in each city, so it doesn't break copyright law and should not be forced to pay broadcasters anything.
"Nobody says you can't have an antenna and nobody says you can't have a DVR. It's all about can you have an antenna and a DVR that you control remotely," Aereo CEO Chet Kanojia said.
The Consumer Electronics Association and the Computer & Communications Industry Association are all supporting Aereo in its effort to abstain away from paying any form of royalties.
At the moment, it is not certain if Aereo will come out on top. If the company does come out with the win, it would turn out to be a huge win for cord cutters.
Still, we believe there's a high chance the Supreme Court will side with the broadcasters since streamed content are theirs.
