This idea by the FCC is terrifying Apple, Amazon and Microsoft

Streaming video services by Apple, Amazon and Google have thrived off the idea that they are alternatives to cable TV. Now, the Federal Communications Commission is considering if it should begin to regulate online video services, like they do cable companies. And that's causing anxiety in Silicon Valley. As early as October, the FCC is expected to vote on a proposal that would put some streaming video firms into the same regulatory bucket as multichannel video programming distributors, or cable and satellite TV firms, such as Comcast, Dish Network and Cox. The idea, according to FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler, is to help online video providers become stronger competitors to cable and satellite firms by making it easier to obtain valuable TV programming for the Web.

Under the plan, streaming companies would be able to use the FCC's program access rules to ensure TV networks offer the licensing of their programs. That would allow Apple, for instance, to bring ABC, NBC and Comedy Central to the bargaining table for their programs. Small streaming companies, such as SkyAngel, Pluto TV and FilmOn, are championing the idea. But big tech firms don't like it. The guarantee of getting valuable programs from TV networks might seem like huge benefit for online providers. But for the biggest streaming services, the FCC's proposal would create first-time regulations for their sector. And the fear is that more regulations would come.