Definition: Aereo

(1) For the earlier Windows interface, see Aero.

(2) A broadcast TV streaming service via the Internet, founded by Chet Kanojia. Aereo included DVR storage in the cloud and content could be viewed in any Web browser, iOS device or TV via Apple and Roku media hubs or Apple AirPlay.

Aereo picked up digital TV signals over the air and converted them to IP packets for transmission over the Internet. Each subscriber had a tiny antenna (see below). Having started in New York in 2012, by 2014 Aereo was in 10 cities with 16 more planned. But in that year, it failed.

Controversy and Bankruptcy
Just as MP3 revolutionized music transmission, Aereo might have transformed the TV industry. However, the company was sued by the networks unless it paid fees like the cable companies do. With three court decisions in Aereo's favor in 2012 and 2013, the company continued until mid-2014 when the Supreme Court ruled against it, and Aereo suspended service. Later in the year, Aereo filed for bankruptcy.

The Aereo Antenna

Aereo maintained its service was legal, because each of these antennas served only one subscriber, who had to reside where an over-the-air TV antenna would legitimately pick up signals. (Image courtesy of Aereo, Inc.)