Livestation, being currently developed by a company called Skinkers, is the latest entry to stream live TV over the internet. Consider it a software version of the Slingbox, or a competitor to Orb.

Livestation, based on Silverlight (Microsoft’s latest attempt at an Adobe Flash-killer), is a placeshifting technology rather than a time-shifting technology. Livestation is going to have to make deals with broadcasters in order to be successful. Without hardware like a Slingbox, the end-user will not be able to dictate what content is streamed over the internet.

I am not sure how excited broadcasters will be about this service since most broadcast station websites offer on-demand streaming of their most popular shows. Livestation seems like direct competition for the broadcast companies and might be received more as a threat than a partner.

As always, content is king. Will Livestation be able to cut deals like Joost to secure that content?

Have Something To Say?