Apple is making a big move in its plan to kill cable, report says
One way Apple hopes to differentiate itself from other TV-streaming services is by offering content from local networks. Apple wants you to be able to stream live local channels on any device, the Post reports, echoing a report from Re/code earlier this year.
This would give Apple's service an edge over competing options that offer only broad TV shows from various cable channels.
The problem, however, is that broadcasters such as ABC, NBC, CBS, and Fox don't control the feeds of their affiliates that offer that local content. Apple has reportedly asked those broadcasters to obtain those rights from affiliates before Apple moves forward with its TV service, the Post says.
Now networks are getting close to tying up those deals. To persuade their affiliates to sign on, the networks are telling them they will get a slice of the added revenue Apple's new TV service is expected to generate.
That doesn't mean there aren't any obstacles moving forward. Apple is trying to force its notorious "30% tax" on TV partners too, meaning they would have to fork over 30% of the subscription fee to Apple if they buy it through the App Store, the Post reports.
Apple is aiming to release its TV-streaming service in the fall, The Wall Street Journal first reported in March. It could cost between $30 and $40 a month and will reportedly launch on multiple platforms.
We've reached out to Apple for comment.