Cutting the Cable
You could be receiving major TV networks on your Apple device as soon as September.
According to the Wall Street Journal, Apple, Inc. is reportedly preparing to offer a new TV service with around 25 channels from broadcasters like ABC, CBS, and Fox and launch it across all iOS devices and the Apple TV.
The bundle could include the likes of ESPN and FX, and Apple is said to be pushing for a large “on-demand” movie and TV library.
The company reportedly is already in discussions with CBS, 21st Century Fox and Disney (owner of ABC) among other networks, as it attempts to put together a package of popular cable & TV channels.
However, NBCUniversal, which owns channels such as NBC, USA and Bravo, is not part of the discussions.
The company was removed from consideration after a failed deal involving a streaming television platform with NBC’s parent company Comcast ended abruptly. Apple decided that Comcast was “stringing it along,” according to the Wall Street Journal.
TV Networks have for some time been in fear of losing viewership to cable subscribers who drop costly cable subscriptions for less expensive on-line services such as Hulu, Chrome Cast, NetFlix and Apple TV.
The deal with Apple would allow TV networks to retain some of their lost viewership.
About 25 channels would be seen on Apple devices like iPhones, iPads and Apple TV boxes.
Last week Apple, Inc. garnered exclusive rights to HBO’s “Over the Top” streaming service for three months and it also dropped the price of the Apple TV to $69, making Apple’s platform even more affordable.
