Alternatives to Locast

November 2021 Update: Locast officially shuts down amidst court ruling and settlement of $32 million in statutory damages. View settlement hosted by Thomson Reuters.

Helping consumers access local channels – news, sports, shows and movies has always been at the core of StreamWise Solutions’ mission to help people save money on TV. We do so by helping customers get up to 80 channels of local content for free via a properly configured outdoor HD antenna. A solution that has proven true with rights protected by the Federal Communications Commission since the 1940’s. And, we offer solutions that help consumers combine free over-the-air (OTA) live content with over-the-top (OTT) streaming.

Another critical precedent has been set in the TV industry. Unfortunately, after a two-year battle in the courts against the parent companies of CBS, NBC, FOX and Disney’s ABC, Locast has recently suspended operations due to the recent court ruling against them.

What is Locast?

We’ve kept a close eye on Locast as they quickly added free subscribers to local channels in major markets around the US including Denver back in 2018. Fifteen channels including the four major networks was offered through streaming apps under a non-profit status. The copyright lawsuit originated in July 2019 and US District Judge presiding dismissed Locast’s defense cited ARS Technica in their article titled “Locast’s free TV service shuts down after losing copyright ruling.” The result, Locast suspended operations immediately as noted on their website.

Legal Alternatives to Locast

1. HD Antennas. Throughout the Denver metro area and along the Front Range, most residents can get 80 local channels including the major networks, multiple Spanish language channels, and lots of other great classic and new shows for FREE. This is our top recommendation to replace Locast, but it does require a properly configured outdoor or attic antenna. Buyer beware – indoor antennas are typically limited in coverage, have non stop reception issues and are often a disappointment. Let StreamWise Solutions help you avoid the pains of do-it-yourself and enjoy the full benefits of free TV. See channel coverage.
2. Free Streaming Services. Multiple streaming apps (Fubo, IMDB, Plex, and others) offer free content via streaming. Advertising and upgraded subscriptions help them offset licensing fees for shows and movies. But smart TVs or external devices like Roku force many consumers to switch inputs and get lost trying to find the shows they want. It’s easy to get lost in the more than 300 different streaming options. Instead, StreamWise Solutions consults with customers to ensure they pay the least for the channels you want to watch. View our solutions.
3. Local Channel Streaming Services. Multiple providers (Sling, YouTube TV, Hulu, AT&T TV Now) offer streaming replacements that resemble cable packages and include local channels. These services are not plug-in-play and come with a whole new set of challenges – heavy data streaming, poorly configured home WIFI, and limitations to Standard Definition content are just a quick few. With StreamWise Solutions, we help you avoid data caps, create exceptional whole-home WIFI coverage, and create an entertainment experience that is consistent across every TV in the home.

Evaluate alternatives to Locast

If you were a Locast subscriber in Denver, we recommend a thoughtful approach to evaluating alternatives to Locast. Instead of doing it on your own, trust StreamWise Solutions to assist you like thousands of other Colorado customers. Maybe an HD Antenna is right for you, maybe streaming is just the ticket – either way, we help you get the best connected living experience for less.