Apple is apparently hunting down content for its purported streaming television service.
The Wall Street Journal now claims Discovery and Viacom are also in talks with Apple to offer programming through the service. Yesterday, the publication cited sources as saying Apple is discussing options with Disney, CBS and 21st Century Fox.
Netting one or both broadcasters would be a major step for Apple, as Discovery owns the Discovery Channel, Animal Planet and TLC, while Viacom controls MTV, Comedy Central and Nickelodeon. Viacom was one of the providers rumored to be engaged in direct negotiations with Apple over a similar solution in 2013.
Apple has not commented on the matter, but informed sources were quoted as saying the service could run between US$30 and US$40 per month. With subscription fees, users would be able to view content on Apple TV set-top streamers and iOS devices.
Noticeably absent from the list of potential partners is NBCUniversal, which carries channels like USA and Bravo. Comcast, NBC’s parent company, was reportedly considering a hardware solution with Apple, but discussions broke down last year, souring the relationship.
Last month, rumors of an online service that would sidestep cable companies resurfaced as Apple reportedly restarted talks with content owners.
Earlier today, a report claimed Apple is attempting to sweeten the pot by offering providers access to user data, including “who [the] viewers are, what they watch and when they watch it.” If Apple decides to relinquish such information, it would represent a marked change in course from the company’s usually solicitous data sharing policies.
According to the most recent rumblings, Apple could announce at this year’s Worldwide Developers Conference in June, with a fall launch date to follow.
Stay tuned for additional details as they become available.
Via AppleInsider and The Wall Street Journal