Apple in Talks to Launch Online TV Service With About 25 Channels [WSJ]

Apple is reportedly in talks to launch an online television service which would have about 25 channels, reports the WSJ. It would include broadcasters such as ABC, CBS, and Fox. Currently, the talks don't include NBCUniversal who owns USA and Bravo due to a fallout between Apple and parent company Comcast, say sources.

Apple and Comcast were in talks as recently as last year about working together on a streaming television platform that would combine Apple’s expertise in user interfaces with Comcast’s strength in broadband delivery. Apple came to believe that Comcast was stringing it along while the cable giant focused on its own X1 Web-enabled set-top box, the people said. One media executive said it may be difficult for Apple to launch a service without NBCUniversal channels.

Apple has been talking to companies such as Walt Disney, CBS, and 21st Century Fox about offering a "skinny" bundle with only well known channels like CBS, ESPN and FX. It's believed that Apple would be targeting a price range of $30-$40/month for the service.


People 'familiar with the matter' say Apple is looking to announce the service at WWDC in June and launch it in September. It would work across all Apple devices including iPhones, iPads, and the Apple TV.

Notably, Apple announced last week that it would be offering HBO Now, an online streaming version of the popular channel on the Apple TV starting next month. It's long been rumored that Apple wants to delve deeper into television; however, there has been a lot of resistance from content providers and cable companies.

You can follow iClarified on Twitter, Facebook, or RSS for updates.

Read More