Multiple sources said CNET would not attempt to bid for the CES awards in an attempt to move on from the controversy. A CNET spokesperson issued this response: “As the #1 tech news and reviews site in the world, CNET is committed to delivering in-depth coverage of consumer electronics. We look forward to covering CES and the latest developments from the show, as we have for well over a decade.” A CBS Interactive spokesperson told The Verge that prior to the CEA’s decision, CBS had already determined it would not attempt to partner with CES for the awards again.
CEA president and CEO Gary Shapiro’s column in USA Today on the subject is damming:
CNET is a credible technology industry journalism organization with respected reporters and analysts, and has always been a good partner to CES when examining these awards. CBS had a pristine reputation, and other than its questionable anti-innovation litigation strategy, had shown an ability to embrace innovation and try new things such as acquiring CNET and experimenting with a Groupon model. But those reputations have been severely damaged.
Moreover, CNET’s top editor recently revealedCNET was ordered by CBS to deceive the public and say CNET pulled the product from consideration as a finalist, even though the Hopper Sling had already been the CNET editors’ unanimous choice as best of show. Unbelievable that a top executive at a Fortune 500 company had ordered an intentional deception by their own journalists.
Every week it seems we see a rock of society crumble, and CBS’ actions during CES unsettle me as someone who treasures innovation and hates seeing a great company tarnished by unfairness in a respected awards program. Sadly, 2013 begins with CBS destroying its reputation for editorial integrity in an attempt to eliminate a new market competitor. Now we are considering our legal options under our agreement with CNET.
(Excuse the long block-quote; I couldn’t help myself.)
Censorship is serious, and I think these ramifications will only continue until CBS gets its head on straight and gives CNET back its editorial independence. Granted, even if that were to happen today, it takes a long time to rebuild the trust that has been broken between CNET, other companies and its readers.