Apple's streaming TV service will be focused on broadcast networks, according to report

[Dirk Libbey]

You've heard this one before. Now that Apple has successfully entered the streaming music scene, rumors are circulating again that they've set their sights on television. According to new reports, Apple is deep into discussions to get their over the top streaming TV service off the ground. If these rumors are to be believed, there is one thing that might set Apple's service apart: broadcast networks.

Apple is looking to build their streaming service around ABC, CBS, FOX and NBC (no love for The CW?). This is a difficult process because of the local affiliate groups that control the broadcast networks on a local level. However, all four networks are apparently in talks with their affiliates in order to gain negotiating power to make the deal.

There are other items under discussion as well. Apple is reported to be looking for 30 percent of the subscription fee when the users purchase through the App Store. That's a pretty hefty chunk and at least one source is implying the networks will want a larger share.

There is no pricing yet set for the eventual service with estimates ranging from $10 to $40 per month. That would put the service in the same ballpark as Dish Network's Sling TV at $20, which does not include any broadcast networks. It would be cheaper than Playstation's VUE service, which ranges from $50 to $70, and does include some networks but is currently available in a limited number of test markets.

In addition to the broadcast networks Apple is eyeing cable channels, including Discovery and ESPN as well. Since many of the companies that own the networks also own several cable brands -- ABC and ESPN are both owned by Disney -- it's likely cable will come along for the ride.

Sources say the platform is ready to go and if negotiations continue to go well, the OTT service could launch as early as this fall.

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https://www.techspot.com/news/61359-apple-streaming-tv-service-focused-broadcast-networks.html

 

[Guest]

If I could get my locals - and that includes PBS stations - plus some side stuff for $20 or less,
I'd consider Apple for my provider ... even if the box was $99 or more.

 

[9Nails]

Local broadcast channels are free with an indoor HDTV antenna. I imagine there is an Apple tax to make free become magical via a subscription charge. Then there's the data charges for internet service. So I'm picturing the whole Apple TV thing to be a monthly loss and not a money saving device. Which I think is kind of funny, since I'll be watching commercials again at a premium price.

 

[wiyosaya]

Local broadcast channels are free with an indoor HDTV antenna. I imagine there is an Apple tax to make free become magical via a subscription charge. Then there's the data charges for internet service. So I'm picturing the whole Apple TV thing to be a monthly loss and not a money saving device. Which I think is kind of funny, since I'll be watching commercials again at a premium price.

Agreed.

Why would anyone want to get broadcast networks that are free OTA from a paid service? Most smart TVs have an OTA tuner in them, so for the cost of a relatively cheap indoor antenna, you get the same thing that crApple is charging a fee for.

Even something as simple as this - https://www.techspot.com/review/1025-asrock-beebox-n3000/ along with an HDHomeRun will likely allow you to DVR any OTA program and skip commercials. For the approximate $250 US price that you might pay for this solution, you will have that paid off in approximately 25 months at the low end of the estimated fee.

Having cut the cord about a year and a half ago, none of these streaming services have attracted my interest in subscribing, and I am willing to bet that the majority of the tech savvy cord-cutters will also have no interest.