In an effort to compete with Netflix and Amazon, Apple is preparing its own digital video service that will bring together original content and subscription services from legacy media companies. Owners of Apple devices, such as the iPhone, iPad and Apple TV will find the still-in-the-works service in the pre-installed “TV” application.
The new product will include Apple-owned content, which will be free to Apple device owners, and subscription “channels,” allowing customers to sign up for online-only services, such as those from HBO and Starz. Apple plans to debut its revamped app early next year.
Tapping into the digital age, Apple is reportedly spending about $1 billion on original content this year. The company already has more than a dozen original television shows in the works, while also aiming to produce television shows with broad consumer appeal that won’t taint its brand image. In other words, the company is targeting “PG-rated” shows that appeal to wide audiences. Rumors suggest that Apple is avoiding risqué content that avoids nudity, raw language, and violence.
In addition to its video subscription service, Apple is trying to talk to print media companies into joining Texture, the magazine subscription service that it purchased earlier this year. However, news organizations are reluctant to give Apple control of the subscriber billing relationship.
By: Maytinee Kramer
