You can still make an analog radio yourself without having to purchase a license to do so. At least, in he US (not sure if you need a content license). So that argument is a little off. Plus, in that analogy, the authors argument still holds up - you are buying an app (car radio) that lets you view (hear) content that is otherwise distributd (broadcast) for free.

You can also write your own software without having to purchase a license to do so.

> You can still make an analog radio yourself without having to purchase a license to do so.

Sure, but you'll still have to pay for the parts to do so.

But those parts could be used for anything. There is nothing about buying electrical components that transfers a license to listen to the radio.

Technically, the user had to buy their phone too. That doesn't convey any special powers to the user to see/view CBC videos. (if any were needed)

I think you've misunderstood. Someone said that the issue is due to the app author charging for the app. Someone else said that even a radio isn't free, since you have to pay for that.

This has nothing to do with licenses.