Streaming TV Advertisers Want Better Targeting — Minus the Privacy Backlash

Advertisers entering the burgeoning medium of streaming TV say they want better measurement and targeting capabilities than they are finding there. But a shadow looms over any efforts to give them what they want: the privacy backlash that has recently put other digital media on the defensive. From a report: That means obtaining viewers’ consent to use information on what they…

Why You’re Still Paying For Sports On Cable When There’s No Live Sports

An anonymous reader quotes a report from Ars Technica: Cable-TV companies are still charging customers for sports channels even as the coronavirus pandemic forces the suspension of all major sports leagues. The continued charges include Regional Sports Network (RSN) fees, which often add almost $10 to customer bills in exchange for access to local professional and college live-sports broadcasts. But RSN…

Coronavirus Could Force ISPs To Abandon Data Caps Forever

An anonymous reader quotes a report from TechCrunch: The coronavirus threat and official policies of “social distancing” are leading millions to stay home, doing meetings via video chat and probably watching Netflix and YouTube the rest of the time. That means a big uptick in bytes going through the tubes, both simultaneously and cumulatively. ISPs, leery of repeating Verizon’s memorable gaffe…

AT&T TV Will Be a Tough Sell in a World of Endless Streaming TV Options

AT&T has launched its newest video service brand, called AT&T TV, and it could be the beginning of the end for AT&T’s DirecTV offering. From a report: That’s because AT&T TV is like DirectTV in many ways: It allows you to watch more than 100 live TV channels, but whereas DirecTV requires you to have a satellite dish, AT&T TV only…

US Retailers Rush To Comply With California Privacy Law

U.S. retailers including Walmart will add “Do Not Sell My Info” links to their websites and signage in stores starting Jan. 1, allowing California shoppers to understand for the first time what personal and other data the retailers collect, Reuters reported Tuesday citing sources. From the report: Others like Home Depot will allow shoppers not just in California but around the…

Roku Built the Dominant Streaming Box. Now It’s Under Siege

An anonymous reader shares a report: More than 30 million people use a Roku device to navigate the constellation of streaming TV services. The company’s portfolio includes the “stick” ($49.99), which resembles a USB drive; the “puck” ($79.99), a black square with smooth edges and minimal detailing; and a $400 smart TV with Roku’s operating system. The more expensive options offer…