Share

Apple explores competing against Netflix

San Francisco - Entertainment executives in Hollywood have held talks with Apple about producing exclusive shows for Apple TV, according to a person with knowledge of the matter.

Apple has discussed investing in original series, said the person, who asked not to be identified because the discussions were private. The company hasn’t decided whether to proceed, the person said.

With original programming, Apple would make the leap from being one of the top retailers of entertainment to its wealthiest producer, and obtain premium content for a live TV service it’s said to be planning.

Next week, the Cupertino, California-based maker of iPhones and Mac computers is expected to unveil a new version of its Apple TV set-top box, along with the latest iteration of the popular mobile phone.

The move would pose another threat to the pay-TV industry, which has suffered subscriber losses as young consumers watch video using online services like Netflix. and Google’s YouTube and older viewers pare their spending.

Tom Neumayr, an Apple spokesperson, declined to comment. Variety reported on Apple’s plans on Monday.

It would also represent a challenge to established online streaming companies like Netflix, Amazon.com and Hulu. Those three services are bedrock offerings in the current Apple TV set-top box.

Apple would want to fund a number of high-profile series, the person said, rather than start with one or two.

The company attempted to work with the stars of hit BBC series “Top Gear” after they left the show, according to Variety.

Analysts and executives have long speculated Apple might fund programming or buy a movie studio.

Up to now, the company has stuck with producing phones, tablets and computers -- businesses with higher profit margins than content production.

The company has been taking steps into video production.

Apple’s new music app, for example, includes some exclusive, behind-the-scenes clips. Artists often welcome videographers and photographers into the studio with them, and Apple has hired executives to help shoot and produce video from recording sessions with willing musicians.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Rand - Dollar
18.94
-0.0%
Rand - Pound
23.91
-0.0%
Rand - Euro
20.41
+0.1%
Rand - Aus dollar
12.33
+0.1%
Rand - Yen
0.13
-0.0%
Platinum
908.05
+1.2%
Palladium
1,014.94
+1.3%
Gold
2,232.75
-0.0%
Silver
24.95
-0.1%
Brent Crude
87.00
+1.8%
Top 40
68,346
0.0%
All Share
74,536
0.0%
Resource 10
57,251
0.0%
Industrial 25
103,936
0.0%
Financial 15
16,502
0.0%
All JSE data delayed by at least 15 minutes Iress logo
Company Snapshot
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE
Government tenders

Find public sector tender opportunities in South Africa here.

Government tenders
This portal provides access to information on all tenders made by all public sector organisations in all spheres of government.
Browse tenders