Streaming TV service Aereo is coming to the Chromecast on May 29.
An upcoming update to the Aereo for Android app will add Chromecast support. This will let Aereo subscribers fling their live TV or cloud DVR programs from a phone or tablet to a Chromecast with the tap of a button.
Aereo is already available on iOS, Chrome, Safari, Internet Explorer, Roku and Apple TV (via AirPlay). The Aereo for Android app has been available in beta since October for devices running Android 4.1.1 "Jelly Bean" or higher.
The Chromecast, of course, is Google's $35 dongle that allows users to fling content from an app or web page to a TV screen wirelessly. Over the last few months, we've seen an increase of interest from developers and content creators, especially as the Chromecast finds its way into more living rooms.
Aereo is a currently available in 11 markets, including New York, Atlanta, Miami and Austin, with more plans to expand to other markets throughout 2014. For $8 a month, users can access local channels (including ABC, NBC, CBS, Fox and PBS) via the web or a connected device and record up to 20 hours of programming on a cloud-based DVR.
Before Aereo makes its way to the Chromecast, it will have its day in front of the United States Supreme Court. Major broadcast networks, including ABC, CBS and Fox, are suing Aereo, claiming the service violates copyright and existing retransmission laws.
After a slew of lower court battles (which all ended in Aereo's favor), the highest court in the land will determine Aereo's fate. The hearing is scheduled later this month, with a decision expected before the court recesses at the end of June.
For Aereo as a business, the stakes could not be higher. Earlier this month, Barry Diller, whose company IAC is Aereo's financial backer, told Bloomberg TV that Aereo's future is in the hands of the court. "If we lose, we're finished."