Time Warner offers free TV antennas for CBS blackout

{mosads}Since Aug. 2., CBS has been blacked out for Time Warner Cable customers in New York, Los Angeles, Dallas and other markets because the companies were unable to reach a retransmission agreement.

Both companies have accused the other of being unreasonable and forcing the blackout. 

“All blacked-out broadcast stations remain available over the air, and most households can receive the signals if they have the right equipment,” Time Warner explained in a post on its website. The company noted that viewers must be near a broadcast tower in order to receive a clear signal.

The cable provider is also offering customers an Amazon gift card, which they can use to subscribe to the online video service.

The steps are an attempt to reduce the inconvenience of the blackout for Time Warner customers and reduce CBS’s leverage in negotiations. CBS has blocked Time Warner broadband subscriber from accessing its online videos it a bid to strengthen its hand in negotiations. 

Lawmakers and regulators have urged the two companies to swiftly reach an agreement.