By Joey Ferguson
Online television provider Aereo Inc. plans to launch its service in Utah on August 19th amid opposition from networks like Fox and CBS.
Instead of using a traditional TV antenna to receive over-the-air channels, Aereo uses antennas in one location and then delivers the video over the internet. Subscribers will be able to watch and record the major networks in Utah, including KSTU (Fox), KSL (NBC) and KUTV (CBS), according to a statement from the company. The service will also allow access to BYU-TV, Estrella and other special interest or foreign language channels.
“We’re excited to be launching our technology in Utah, or what is fast becoming known as the Silicon Slopes,” said Aereo Chief Executive Chet Kanojia. “Utahns are connected, tech-savvy and interested in innovations that can add value to their lives.”
Basic memberships start at $8 per month and include 20 hours of DVR storage and access to the local networks. The service uses small TV antennas, about the size of a dime, to receive the signals.
The online service has received challenges from networks like CBS and Fox. CBS and other major broadcasters sued the company for copyright infringement, but the service was declared legal in a 2–1 decision by a New York circuit court, according to Gigaom.
