CBS invests in streaming specialist

CBS has acquired a minority stake in Syncbak, a tech company focused on giving US broadcasters new content distribution opportunities on emerging platforms.

Syncbak’s technology is currently being tested by more than 100 television stations in 70 markets across 31 broadcast groups, representing all major networks including CBS, ABC, Fox, NBC and The CW.

Other strategic investors in the business include the National Association of Broadcasters and the Consumer Electronics Association.

Using location-based authentication technology, Syncbak enables local television networks to stream their signal to in-market consumers. In doing so, it allows broadcast networks to replicate existing national, local and affiliate partnerships on the internet and mobile devices.

CBS’s investment in Syncbak comes as the Eye, along with other US broadcasters continue to try to fend off controversial online TV venture Aereo, which streams local affiliate stations over the internet.