Rumor Fact(ory): TuneIn reportedly sued in UK for copyright breach

Music Business Worldwide is reporting that two of the major labels have started legal proceedings against TuneIn UK around possible breach of copyright. Sources told the publication that the suit alleges the UK branch of the online audio company had at least 800 unlicensed music streams in that market. The UK companies of Sony Music Entertainment and Warner Music Group have reportedly brought the suit, and the IFPI may also be involved in the litigation process.

TuneIn, which is based in the U.S., offers listeners music, radio, news, sports, podcasts, and audiobooks. It recently launched a windowing program called First Play that grants paying members advanced access to some podcast content. It also operates a Premium tier that is ad-free and offers expanded access to the company’s catalog. The company has not made any public comment yet about this reported legal action.

Anna Washenko