Technology
Articles involving technology companies, hardware, software and industry trends.

Smart TVs dominate in U.S., but broadcast still preferred in Europe
Time spent with television has increased in both the U.S. and Europe every year since 2021, owed in part to the proliferation of domestic and foreign streaming services in each region.

Altice USA restores MSG Networks to Optimum TV under new deal
Altice USA has restored access to MSG Networks on its Optimum TV platform after all sides reached a new carriage agreement on Saturday.

Philo adds multiplex channels from Starz, MGM Plus
Philo has quietly expanded the availability of Starz and MGM Plus channels available through the platform for those who subscribe to the premium add-ons.

Sinclair’s TBD sees ratings boost from Super Bowl, SNL marathon block
Sinclair saw higher viewership on Super Bowl Sunday with its decision to program reruns of Saturday Night Live that touched on various Super Bowl themes.
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ESPN to stop airing Major League Baseball games after 2025 season
The cable network and the professional sports league have mutually agreed to part ways.

Lawmaker wants DOJ to probe Fubo pay TV deal with Disney
The letter, sent by Senator Elizabeth Warren, may or may not be effective — depending on whether the DOJ wants to focus its efforts on Fubo or Disney.

Dr. Phil Show to end broadcast syndication, move to Merit TV
Dr. Phil McGraw is ending his distribution agreement with CBS that made re-runs of his talk show available in broadcast syndication.

YouTube to release lower-cost “YouTube Lite Premium” plan
The service will offer uninterrupted streaming of non-music video content, but lack offline downloads and access to YouTube Music.

Report: ESPN streaming service could cost $30 per month
The standalone ESPN streaming service could cost as much as $30 per month, but it is also expected to include add-ons like access to ESPN Plus.

Fox News Digital logs 1 billion video views on social platforms in January
Fox News Digital logged more than a billion video views across social media platforms for the first time in January, according to Comscore.

NAB CEO says FCC should eliminate broadcast ownership caps
In a keynote address this week, Curtis LeGeyt suggested the broadcast industry can better serve communities if they are allowed to grow larger.

GumGum: Contextual ads valued over identity-based spots
A consumer survey found more TV viewers and streamers prefer and engage with contextual advertising at a higher level than identity-based spots and campaigns.