Apple is reportedly in talks with programmers about content deals that would let it offer a streaming TV service, according to re/code.
“The theory is that Apple would put together bundles of programming — but not the entire TV lineup that pay TV providers generally offer — and sell it directly to consumers, over the Web,” writes the website, that is usually well-informed about developments at Apple, but “talks seem to be in the early stages, which means terms like pricing and timing aren’t close to being ironed out.”
The news comes at a time when streaming OTT services are being launched, such as Dish with its new Sling TV product and Sony, who already announced its service in January 2014.
In the US, CBS launched its All-Access service last October, whole HBO is set to launch a OTT version of its HBO Go app later this year in the US while also eying international expansion.
Rumours about a possible Apple TV launch as a OTT service have been circulating for years, but so far did not materialise. Two years ago, reports surfaced that Apple was in talks with US cabler Time-Warner to develop a set-top box that would work with the cable system, while last year rumours suggested that a deal with Comcast was about to be signed.
Meanwhile, Tim Cook said last month that Apple has now sold over 25 million Apple TV boxes since its launch, but the device is facing increasing competition from other streaming devices such as Roku, Google Chromecast and Amazon Fire TV.