It looks like Apple and CBS are getting closer to a deal in the negotiations in Apple’s upcoming streaming service.
Per a recent interview, CBS CEO Les Moonves offered the following:
“Apple is having conversations with everyone about doing their own streaming services,” Moonves said in an interview Wednesday “We have had those conversations, as have the other networks. Do I think something will happen? Probably, but I do not know when.”
Moonves offered similar comments five months ago, stating that the network was “very excited about it” and confirming plans with Apple’s Eddy Cue.
Given the similarity between the statement given in May and what Moonves had to say today, there is little evidence of any progress in the talks between Apple and content owners, but it’s clear there is still interest in reaching a deal.
Apple’s web-based television service was initially rumored to be launching in 2015, perhaps alongside the new Apple TV, but a continued failure to secure all of the necessary deals has reportedly delayed its debut until 2016. Apple is said to be having trouble with content negotiations, with pricing being a sticking point.
Apple’s plan is to offer a selection of popular television channels at a price of US$30 to US$40 per month, a price tag that undercuts most cable television services. While Apple’s streaming television service is still in the works with a launch date unknown, the company’s new set-top box will be launching at the end of the month.
The fourth-gen Apple TV is said to be slated for release in late October. The device includes a full App Store, universal search, deep Siri integration, and a touch-based remote for navigating the interface and playing games.
Stay tuned for additional details as they become available.