Report: Apple TV programming deal unlikely for WWDC


Kafka/Chmielewski for Re/Code:

The Cupertino technology company has told network executives the planned unveiling will be postponed because Apple has yet to finalize the licensing deals. Industry executives predict Apple's Web TV offering may not launch until later this year, or in 2016. Technology and money issues remain sticking points.

That's a bummer, but not really surprising. A sticking point that was cited is Apple wishes to launch a comprehensive package with national coverage in the U.S. This requires agreements with local broadcast stations and many stations are privately owned. It would seem Apple would need to negotiate separate agreements with privately owned stations in addition to networks and their stations, which is reportedly time-consuming process.