Aereo, an Internet company that offers traditional media over the Internet without contract agreements, is reportedly expanding into 22 new markets, including Madison. The company, currently operating only in New York City, offers low-cost, live television online plans for as little as $8 a month on an annual basis. It stream-feeds over-the-air television stations to Windows and Mac computers, iPhones, iPads, and other technology but does not offer cable channels, other than the Bloomberg TV financial news channel. The company plans to move into the new markets this spring.
The company’s decision to expand was propelled by a recent, tentative court ruling by a New York federal judge who found the service does not violate copyright law, though cable and satellite services disagree. Local broadcasters also have a beef, claiming the service retransmits their signals without permission. The temporary ruling allows Aereo to operate while lawsuits make their way through court.
