Appletv+ debuts streaming TV service
LOSANGELES:APPLE TV+, the iphone maker’s entry into the crowded streaming TV market, debuts on Friday as the first “all-original” subscription video service, according to Apple Inc. chief executive Tim Cook.
All of the programming is original because, unlike Netflix Inc. and the forthcoming Disney+ from Walt Disney
Co., Apple does not have rights to a back catalogue of TV shows and movies.
That makes Apple’s offering relatively slim compared to other online video services. It is also cheaper than competitors at $4.99 per month. And anyone who has purchased an iphone, ipad, Apple TV device, ipod touch or Mac after September 10 can get a free subscription for one year.
Cook, in an interview with Reuters on Wednesday, said he welcomes the wide range of competition in streaming video because he believes it will encourage more people to drop cable television and seek digital entertainment options. “That really advantages not only Apple, but everyone in the streaming field,” Cook said.
Launching in more than 100 countries and territories, Apple TV+ will debut with four TV series for adults, an episode of Oprah’s Book Club, a nature documentary, and three children’s series. Additional programming will be added each month.
One of Apple’s most heavily promoted programmes is The Morning Show. The drama series stars Jennifer Aniston in her first TV role since Friends, alongside Reese Witherspoon and Steve Carell.