ABC launches live streaming among its affiliates

Hearst Television and other affiliates will join their live streaming operations alongside ABC's main signal.

The American ABC, one of the largest broadcasters in the world, is now launching a live streaming service in collaboration with its affiliates. Hearst Television and other ABC partners will bundle their live streaming operations alongside ABC's main signal so they can be received by authenticated subscribers on tablets and smartphones through the Watch ABC app.

The app will also allow users to follow ABC programs on demand, after they are shown on television, as well as access the broadcaster's site.

Disney/ABC has local distribution agreements for its Watch products with several cable operators. It began negotiating with affiliates to join WatchABC, with Hearst (which operates eight ABC affiliates) being the first to join the project.

Disney Media Networks also offers live streaming of six networks, WatchESPN, including all ESPN sports and studio shows.

Viewers can access WatchABC online at ABC.com or download the app on iOS or Kindle Fire devices. The app for Samsung Galaxy devices will be available before the end of the year.