The well-liked live streaming platform Locast has been dealt a blow. A recent court ruling has forced them to halt their services, as stated by the app itself. The service released an official statement through their app and on Twitter.
https://twitter.com/LocastOrg/status/1433438531494432771
Locast is a live TV app that gives users access to local channels without a cable subscription. It’s available in over 35 markets across the US.
Locast App on Firestick/Roku/Android
The app operates on a donation-based model. Users contribute monthly to enjoy uninterrupted streaming. However, it has faced legal challenges from major broadcast networks. This includes big names like CBS, ABC, NBC, and FOX.
Back in 2019, these four corporations teamed up. They filed a lawsuit against Locast, alleging copyright infringement. The lawsuit claimed that Locast was retransmitting their signals without authorization.
Locast defended itself by arguing it didn’t charge customers directly. Therefore, they claimed they were simply “boosting” signals. They said this provided wider access to local channels and qualified them as a nonprofit. This, they argued, made them exempt from copyright lawsuits.
Sadly for Locast, a judgment was reached. The court ruled that Locast wasn’t exempt and could be held accountable. The court documents highlighted a key point.
Since portions of its user payments fund Locast’s expansion, its charges exceed those “necessary to defray the actual and reasonable costs of maintaining and operating the secondary transmission service
Locast’s claim as a nonprofit was rejected because it generated more revenue than needed for operations and maintenance. The extra funds from donations were used to expand into new markets. However, these funds should have been limited to covering operating expenses.
Locast reached out to its subscribers and others via email. The email addressed the court’s decision and its implications. Below is the content of the email.
The company has suspended operations. Consequently, app users have lost access to live local stations. Attempting to open Locast on any device displays the following message.
If you’re looking for ways to stream local channels, we’ve got you covered. Check out these helpful guides.
- Amazon News App on Firestick/Fire TV
- Best TV Antennas
- NewsOn App
- VUit on Firestick/Android
- Haystack TV App
- Local Now App
What do You Think?
What are your thoughts on the court’s decision regarding Locast? Do you see this as a setback for cord-cutters who want access to local channels?
Could these major companies be overstepping their boundaries? Share your opinions and insights in the comments section below!
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