Scripps offering live streaming via mobile apps

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The E.W. Scripps Company is deploying streaming in all nine of its TV markets that will allow its stations to deliver live video programming to virtually any mobile device. But no surprise—it’s only local content from the stations that will air. Newsoverwireless.com, owned by Raleigh-based Capitol Broadcasting, is the technology provider for Scripps in this move.


“When it comes to delivering news and information, we already own live coverage on television and the Web. That’s what our audiences have come to expect of us. This move brings that level of commitment to the exploding smartphone and tablet consumer space,” said Adam Symson, VP/interactive for the Scripps television division. “We’ll now close the gap and aggressively deliver live continuous coverage to the massive and growing on-the-go audience.”

Here’s how it works: A user opens the mobile app of his or her favorite Scripps station. Clicking on the prompt will open a live media player that may be a simulcast of the station’s on-air content or may be coverage that is unique to that stream.  Users will also be notified of a live streaming event using push notifications as well as SMS and email alerts. When circumstances warrant – such as periods of breaking news or severe weather – the app’s on-screen display will prompt users to view streaming content.

The new technology is being rolled out this month and will be accessible on devices with the iPhones and iPads and the Android operating system (smartphones and tablets) select Blackberry devices, and via a mobile Web browser.

The participating markets and stations:

Detroit (WXYZ)
Phoenix (KNXV)
Tampa, Fla. (WFTS)
Cleveland (WEWS)
Baltimore (WMAR)
Kansas City, Mo. (KSHB)
Cincinnati (WCPO)
West Palm Beach, Fla. (WPTV)
Tulsa, Okla. (KJRH)

RBR-TVBR observation: Of course, this is not being offered for any network or syndicated programming, but it’s a great idea to keep the stations’ audience following their news offerings while out of home, rather than going to online-only news sites.