A legal skirmish has erupted between audio OTT platform Pocket FM and video streaming giant Disney+ Hotstar, as Pocket FM files a lawsuit against Disney+ Hotstar in the Delhi High Court, alleging copyright infringement regarding its audio series ‘Yakshini.’
The Allegations Unfold
Pocket FM has taken swift legal action, seeking an interim injunction against Disney+ Hotstar’s parent company, Novi Digital Entertainment, to remove the trailer for the web series ‘Yakshini.’ The audio platform asserts ownership of the copyright to ‘Yakshini,’ which has been available on its platform since May 2021. Pocket FM alleges striking similarities between its audio series and Disney+ Hotstar’s Telugu web series, particularly in the portrayal of the titular character and specific scenes.
Legal Proceedings and Hearing
The case is set for a crucial hearing before Justice Neena Bansal Krishna, with Pocket FM pushing for immediate action to safeguard its intellectual property rights. Disney+ Hotstar is expected to present its response during the hearing, as both parties brace for a legal showdown.
Pocket FM: Evolution and Growth
Founded in 2018, Pocket FM has emerged as a prominent player in the audio content space, offering a diverse array of content spanning various languages and genres. The platform’s recent Series D funding round, bolstered by Lightspeed and Stepstone Group, underscored its ambitious expansion plans and commitment to global growth.
AI-Led Innovation and Strategic Appointments
Pocket FM’s strategic focus on AI-led automation and content curation has propelled its evolution into a dynamic entertainment hub. The appointment of industry veteran Suyog Gothi as Vice President and India Country Head signals the platform’s intent to strengthen its foothold in the Indian market and enhance user experiences through personalized recommendations.
Financial Performance and Expansion
Despite legal challenges, Pocket FM’s financial performance reflects resilience and growth, with significant revenue surges and narrowed losses in FY23. The platform’s foray into novel reading with Pocket Novel underscores its commitment to diversifying its entertainment offerings and catering to evolving consumer preferences.
