Report: Apple's original TV programming may be free with devices


CNBC:

Apple is preparing a new digital video service that will marry original content and subscription services from legacy media companies, according to people familiar with the matter. Owners of Apple devices, such as the iPhone, iPad and Apple TV will find the still-in-the-works service in the pre-installed "TV" application, said the people, who asked not to be named because the details of the project are private.

The product will include Apple-owned content, which will be free to Apple device owners, and subscription "channels," which will allow customers to sign up for online-only services, such as those from HBO and Starz.

That's interesting. Apple reportedly has 24 shows in development and that seems a considerable investment to just add value to hardware sales. That strategy seems counter to Apple's recent drive to grow revenues through subscriptions and services from its installed devices. I'm figuring Apple would either include this with Apple Music or perhaps as an add-on. Or just a straight up new subscription service.

Making it available to all customers certainly would make the programming available to a lot of people. Perhaps that's Apple's angle, in addition to use this space to boost hardware sales and as a platform to promote its entire portfolio. It also may help explain why Apple is pushing for milder PG-type content rather than typical mature/R-rated programming currently popular on streaming services.

CNBC notes that Apple hopes to launch its new service early next year, so hopefully we'll find out more details of Apple's plans in the coming months.