Apple could begin delivering a la carte pricing of broadcast and cable programming, something viewers and users of Apple’s iTunes have long demanded. According to the Wall Street Journal, insiders familiar with the issue, CBS Corp., which owns CBS television, premium cable channel ShowTime and ownership partner in the CW network, are considering participating in the plan. CBS Corp. is also involved with the Walt Disney Co., corporate owner of ABC, ESPN and the Disney Channel.
If Apple is successful in lining up enough outlets for its new service, it “could undermine the big bundles of channels that cable, satellite and telecommunications companies, including Comcast Corp. and DirecTV Inc., have traditionally sold in packages to subscribers.”
Analysts have suggested that Apple faces a battle to convince TV and cable networks to sign up and abandon profitable existing plans with cable and satellite providers.
Topics: General |
