Locast
 | |
| Developer | Sports Fans Coalition |
|---|---|
| Type | Streaming television |
| Launch date | January 2018 |
| Discontinued | September 21, 2021 |
| Website | Archived official website at the Wayback Machine (archived November 13, 2021) |
Locast was an American non-profit streaming television service that allowed users to view live streams of over-the-air television stations. The service was founded by attorney David Goodfriend under the banner of the Sports Fans Coalition. The name is a blend of "local" & "broadcast".
Overview
Locast was launched in New York City in January 2018 and quickly gained popularity as a way for viewers to access local television channels via the internet. It provided a legal means for cord-cutters and those without traditional cable or satellite subscriptions to watch their favorite local stations. Locast's mission was to offer a free, over-the-air streaming solution, making broadcast television accessible to a wider audience.
The service expanded rapidly, reaching media markets throughout the United States as well as Puerto Rico. Locast's availability in numerous markets allowed viewers to access local news, sports, and other programming from their respective regions.
Legal Challenge and Controversy
Despite its non-profit status and intentions, Locast faced legal challenges from major broadcasters. In July 2019, parent companies of the four major U.S. broadcast networks, including ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox, filed a lawsuit against Locast, alleging copyright infringement. They claimed that Locast's retransmission of their programming without consent and compensation violated copyright law.[1]
One of the key points of contention was whether Locast's non-profit status was maintained while accepting financial support from cable and satellite companies. The networks argued that this support undermined Locast's non-profit claim and gave cable companies an unfair advantage during carriage disputes.
Locast countered with its interpretation of United States copyright law, which allows non-commercial entities to retransmit television signals at no charge, except for maintaining the service's operations. They argued that they operated within the legal boundaries of this exception.
The legal battle continued for several years, with Locast's fate hanging in the balance.
Features
Locast offered a user-friendly platform accessible through web browsers, Android and iOS apps, set-top boxes, and popular streaming devices such as Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, Roku, Vizio SmartCast TVs, and Android TV devices. Additionally, users could cast Locast content to larger screens using AirPlay and Google Cast.
Upon registering, viewers were presented with a programming grid, allowing them to select their desired channel. Locast relied on viewer donations to sustain its operations and offered an uninterrupted viewing experience to those who contributed a minimum monthly donation of US$5.00, plus a 50¢ processing fee.[2]
One notable feature of Locast was its geo-fencing technology, which restricted viewers from accessing stations outside of their designated market. However, when traveling to another Locast market, users could access the local stations in that area.
Legal battle resolution
The legal battle between Locast and major broadcasters came to a head in August 2021 when a federal judge denied Locast's request for a summary judgment. This decision dealt a significant blow to the service. As a result, Locast suspended its operations on September 2, 2021.[3]
On September 15, 2021, a permanent injunction was issued, requiring Locast to shut down permanently. This marked the end of the service's mission to provide free access to local TV broadcasts over the internet.[4]
Legacy and impact
Locast played a pioneering role in challenging the traditional television broadcasting model and exploring the boundaries of copyright law in the digital age. It offered viewers an alternative to expensive cable and satellite subscriptions, making local television more accessible to a broader audience.
The legal battle surrounding Locast raised important questions about the future of over-the-air broadcasting, copyright law, and the role of non-profit organizations in providing access to free television content.
Availability
At its peak, Locast was available to 179 million viewers in media markets representing 55 percent of the U.S. population, as well as in Puerto Rico. Users had to be located within one of these markets to access local channels through Locast.
See also
- LocalBTV: A similar service offering local TV streaming.
- Puffer (research study): A research project exploring streaming technologies.
References
- ^ "Networks sue nonprofit behind TV content streaming service Locast". Reuters. July 31, 2019. Retrieved September 2, 2023.
- ^ "Locast Donation Page". Locast. Retrieved September 2, 2023.
- ^ "Locast, streaming service for local TV stations, shuts down after copyright fight". CBS News. September 2, 2021. Retrieved September 2, 2023.
- ^ "Locast shuts down after losing court fight with big TV networks". Ars Technica. September 15, 2021. Retrieved September 2, 2023.
External Links
- Last snapshot of official website prior to going offline in November 2021 - Sports Fans Coalition at sportsfans.org - 17 U.S. Code § 111 - American Broadcasting Companies, Inc. v. Goodfriend