Apple may be working with Hollywood on its own TV shows
It’s been rumored for months that Apple has been in talks to create its own streaming television service. There has also been speculation around whether Cupertino will go further in creating original content than the Beats 1 radio station, perhaps by launching its own original television series. According to a contributor report from The Street, that might actually be in the works.
The contributor, a known media reporter who used to write for Reuters and Bloomberg, says that Apple “began sounding out Hollywood’s creative community late last year, but has yet to sign any agreements, according to two people with knowledge of the overtures.” The idea, supposedly, is to have deals signed and in place when Apple announces its cable-like offering in September.
Amazon and Netflix have proven that investing in original programming can help draw in subscribers, so it only makes sense for Apple to follow suit. The talks, according to reports, are being led by Eddy Cue, senior vice president of Internet sales and software, and also include Robert Kondrk, vice president of iTunes content.
Not only would original content help bolster a new streaming television service, but it could also spur more sales of the Apple TV. Apple CEO Tim Cook has said that the previous fiscal quarter was “the best by far for Apple TV sales,” but the company surely wants to continue adding incentive for people to buy the set-top box.
Right now, these are just rumors. In time, we’ll hopefully see them turn into actual offerings from Apple. Original content is really what’s missing from iTunes now, and would solidify Cupertino’s position as a media competitor as well as a tech giant.
