Author:
Matthew Keys
Matthew Keys is the award-winning founder and editor of TheDesk.net, an authoritative voice on broadcast and streaming TV, media and tech. With over ten years of experience, he's a recognized expert in broadcast, streaming, and digital media, with work featured in publications such as StreamTV Insider and Digital Content Next, and past roles at Thomson Reuters and Disney-ABC Television Group.
DOJ green-lights Paramount-Warner Bros merger; California AG says deal not done
The Justice Department gave an unconditional sign-off to Paramount's acquisition of Warner Bros Discovery, but California regulators said the deal is far from closing.
Scripps assembles local, national coverage of America 250 events
The broadcaster is rolling out special coverage across its local TV station portfolio and digital networks like Scripps News throughout the summer.
Defamation lawsuit against Nexstar will continue, final settlement conference ends without deal
The lack of a settlement makes it all but certain that a jury will hear one or both defamation cases, which stems from a memo sent to newsroom employees in 2023.
FIRST ON THE DESK
ACE secures $9 million judgment against streaming pirate
The Pennsylvania man was accused of illegally transmitting live channels over the Internet.
Gray Media forges advertising pact with Madhive
The agreement announced this week gives Gray Media access to Madhive's advertising platform and artificial intelligence (AI) tools.
Xperi hires Kevin Greenwald from Audacy for VP, Broadcast Products role
At Xperi, Greenwald will be responsible for guiding the evolution of products and services designed for radio broadcasters and advertisers, with a focus on innovation, monetization and audience engagement.
EXECUTIVE MOVES
Bipartisan bill introduced to thwart FCC censorship of free speech
The JAWBONE Act would allow American individuals and corporations sue federal officials and agencies when targeted for constitutionally-protected speech and expression.
Gracenote: AI products frequently churn out erroneous TV, film information
The study highlights risks for streaming services using certain AI tools for content discovery; errors include mixing up similarly-named titles and inaccurate cast details.
Bango: Americans uncertain about World Cup streaming options
Sports fans in the U.S. are willing to purchase a new streaming app to watch live games from the FIFA World Cup tournament, but there is plenty of confusion about which apps to buy, according to data released by Bango.
DATA
iHeartMedia’s corporate office in Texas listed for sale
The San Antonio office building that has served as iHeartMedia’s corporate headquarters for more than two decades has been listed for sale by its current owner.
Sinclair partners with Feeding America on fundraising, awareness campaign
The campaign is intended to raise awareness and money for food programs targeted at children who rely on school meals during the year and who face stronger food insecurity during the summer months.
TV operating systems emerge as next front in connected TV battleground
Smart TV operating systems from companies like Samsung, LG Electronics and Roku are becoming central hubs for advertising and data, while emergent platforms from V and TiVo are focusing on underserved international markets.