Internet, Fox | featured news

A top executive with the owner of the Fox broadcast network on Monday threatened to convert the network to a pay-TV-only channel if Internet startup Aereo Inc. continues to "steal" Fox's over-the-air signal and sell it to consumers without paying for rights.

Amazon.com said it struck a deal with Fox to offer online video-streaming of the company's movies and television shows.

Broadcasters took a big step toward eliminating free TV shows on the Web after they blocked access to their programming online this month to enforce their demands to be paid. Recent actions by Fox, ABC, NBC and CBS in two separate fee disputes suggest that after a few years of experimenting with free, ad-supported viewing, broadcasters believe they can make more money from cable TV providers if they hold back some programming online.

As a joint venture between Disney, Fox and NBC Universal, Hulu is best known for its free and extensive library of TV shows and movies.

It’s been rumored for a while now that Hulu intends to launch a subscription service. The NBC/FOX/ABC online video website already has built up an audience with its impressive TV library and alien ad campaigns, but the networks have been looking to turn Hulu into a significant profit generator.