On April 17th, a software called "AdBlocker" has recently gained popularity, claiming to almost entirely skip all startup ads, quickly attracting a large number of users for download and use.
Hunan Happy Sunshine Interactive Entertainment Media Co., Ltd., the operator of Mango TV, recently filed a lawsuit against Beijing Yan Gaojiu Tai Advertising Co., Ltd., accusing it of unfair competition and demanding an immediate cessation of related activities and compensation for losses.
The first-instance court supported the claims of Hunan Happy Sunshine Company, but Yan Gaojiu Tai subsequently appealed.
In today's second-instance trial, Mango TV emphasized that while the software meets user demand, it doesn't mean its actions are legitimate (considered rogue behavior). They believe that even if a large number of users don't mind 5-second startup ads, it should not bypass ads.
It's worth noting that this is not the first time Mango TV has resorted to legal means due to ad-blocking behavior. Previously, they had sued several companies including Sogou Browser, Xiaomi Browser, and Baidu, with claims against Baidu reaching as high as 3 million yuan.
This case involves the balance between user experience, advertiser interests, and legal provisions, and its outcome may have implications for similar cases in the future.