Apple Still Negotiating Over Streaming Music Service Just Days Before Its Unveiling

Apple is still in negotiations with record labels over a streaming music service just days before its expected unveiling, reports Bloomberg.

The labels are pushing to get a larger chunk of revenue than they receive under their current deals with Spotify Ltd., a competing streaming service, people familiar with the negotiations said. Both sides want to complete a deal before Apple’s June 8 annual event in San Francisco for more than 5,000 developers, according to the people, who asked not to be named because the talks are continuing.

The labels are reportedly seeking 60% of the service's $9.99 rate. That's more than the 55% they are currently getting from Spotify.


Apple is also in talks with broadcasters including ABC, CBS, and FOX over a streaming TV service that would offer about 25 channels. Those talks are moving slowly and as previously reported, Apple is not expected unveil the service or even new Apple TV hardware at WWDC.

Bloomberg notes that the iOS Music app will be home to Apple's new streaming music service, downloads, and an updated version of iTunes radio. There will also be some behind the scenes video. Apple has hired executives to help shoot and produce video from recording sessions with various artists.

The Apple Music service is also expected to feature artist pages which will host videos, songs, and other tings for free. The feature is called Apple Connect and is reminiscent of Ping. Apple will compensate artists and labels for songs that are given away, as it did with the iTunes' "Free Song of the Week."

Please follow iClarified on Twitter, Facebook, or RSS for updates.


Read More