Technology
Disney+ disables Google Cast in Germany and the Netherlands following patent injunction
A legal dispute with InterDigital leads to regional streaming restrictions on Chromecast functionality.
The short version
- Disney+ has disabled Google Cast functionality for users in select European countries, including Germany and the Netherlands.
- The restriction stems from an injunction issued amid an ongoing patent conflict between Disney and InterDigital.
- Disney is anticipated to appeal the legal decision, though the timeline for resolving the dispute remains unclear.
Key facts
- An injunction related to a patent dispute with InterDigital has forced Disney+ to disable Google Cast support in Germany and the Netherlands.[9to5Google]
- Subscribers in affected regions receive an in-app notice indicating that streaming via Chromecast is unavailable in their country.[9to5Google]
- The ongoing patent dispute previously led to intermittent losses of 4K HDR Dolby Vision playback and 3D content in certain regions.[9to5Google]
What remains uncertain
- Whether Disney's expected appeal will overturn or pause the injunction remains unconfirmed.[9to5Google]
- The full list of countries affected beyond Germany and the Netherlands has not been fully detailed.[9to5Google]
Sources
Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.