In a significant move for the streaming of local ABC, CBS, FOX, & NBC, Zeam, a leading provider of live local news and operator of the hyperlocal streaming platform Zeam, announced today its acquisition of NewsON from Sinclair Inc. NewsON is the nation’s largest aggregator of local news content, and this acquisition strengthens Zeam’s mission to ensure community-focused journalism remains accessible, relevant, and celebrated.
The deal integrates NewsON’s extensive network of local news stations into Zeam’s core streaming service, enabling Zeam to offer local coverage in every measured U.S. market. NewsON will continue to operate as a standalone platform under the new branding, “NewsON. Powered by Zeam,” with Zeam providing its advanced technology and monetization expertise to power livestreams for many of NewsON’s local broadcast station partners. This partnership is expected to enhance broadcasters’ ability to compete in the digital landscape by offering increased monetization opportunities, deeper viewer engagement, and innovative tools to help stations thrive in a streaming-first environment.
Jack Perry, CEO of Zeam, emphasized the strategic importance of the acquisition. “With NewsON coming under the Zeam umbrella, we are not only shaping the future of local broadcast journalism but also reinforcing its essential role in American communities,” Perry said. “Through our joint resources, we are setting local broadcasters up for a future beyond linear.”
Kevin Cotlove, EVP and Chief Digital Officer at Sinclair Inc., expressed confidence in the partnership. “NewsON has been an important resource for connecting viewers with trusted local news from across the country,” Cotlove said. “We’re confident that under Zeam’s leadership, the platform will continue to support stations and strengthen the value of local journalism.”
In 2024, Zeam launched its hyperlocal streaming service with the tagline “Always Local, Always Free,” quickly becoming a go-to destination for local content. The platform currently streams content from hundreds of local stations and has partnerships with prominent broadcast groups, including CBS, Gray Media, News Press & Gazette, Morgan Murphy, and Tegna. Zeam’s Chief Innovation Officer, John Stamos, has been instrumental in driving the company’s vision for hyperlocal streaming.
NewsON, prior to the acquisition, provided access to live and on-demand local news from over 285 trusted TV stations nationwide, offering viewers a comprehensive selection of local content.
The financial terms of the acquisition were not disclosed, but the deal is expected to solidify Zeam’s position as a leader in the local broadcast streaming space while reinforcing the importance of community journalism in the digital age.
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