FilmOn Launches Portable TV Device

4 Jan, 2012 By: Chris Tribbey

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Despite an ongoing legal battle with the major networks, Internet-based TV provider FilmOn is launching a new device in February, one that plugs into smartphones, tablets, Mac and Windows computers to deliver over-the-air digital TV.

The FilmOn Air will be free to annual subscribers, who pay $149.95 a year, and retails for $95.95. The device tunes into over-the-air ATSC digital signals transmitted by the networks and other local broadcasters. The device also provides access to the 120 HD online channels FilmOn licenses.

“In 2010 FilmOn ended up in an ongoing legal battle with … CBS, NBC, ABC and Fox over FilmOn’s right to carry their signals over the Internet,” said Alki David, CEO and founder of FilmOn. “The case is ongoing and FilmOn expects to settle the dispute this year.”

The networks and other broadcasters sued U.K.-based FilmOn in October for copyright infringement, alleging FilmOn could not rebroadcast over-the-air content without permission. The judge in the case issued a temporary injunction.

David said the device allows for the rebroadcast of over-the-air content legally.

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