Apple's Desire to Include Local Stations in Streaming TV Service Could Delay Launch Beyond WWDC

Apple's efforts to provide customers with live programming from local broadcasting stations in the United States could delay the company's plans to launch a streaming TV service in early fall, according to Re/code. The report, citing industry executives, also claims that Apple has not reached any content deals with TV programmers yet, making it unlikely that the web-based TV service is announced at WWDC next month.

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"Apple’s ambitions have complicated its negotiations with the broadcast TV networks, because most broadcasters don’t own all their local stations, and have an affiliate, or franchise system. Clearing the rights to show local programs and commercials takes some time — ABC, for instance, spent two years getting the rights to show live programming via its Watch ABC app, and its live streams remain limited to viewers in eight cities."

The Wall Street Journal reported in March that Apple plans to unveil its streaming TV service at WWDC, anchored by popular networks such as ABC, CBS, Fox, ESPN and FX. The web-based TV service for iPhone, iPad, Apple TV and other devices is expected to deliver a lightweight package of about 25 channels for between $30 to $40 per month. The report claimed that the service will be available in September.

Related Roundup: Apple TV
Buyer's Guide: Apple TV (Neutral)

Top Rated Comments

AngerDanger Avatar
109 months ago
Just give it up Apple.

Or don't. Yeah, let's go with don't.
Score: 24 Votes (Like | Disagree)
AngerDanger Avatar
109 months ago
I still don't know how anyone has the time to watch TV...
They use some of the time they would normally spend posting on tech forums.
Score: 22 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Elbon Avatar
109 months ago
OMG just release it already. Add local stations and other features later. Just get something out there!
Score: 19 Votes (Like | Disagree)
alfonsog Avatar
109 months ago
I still don't know how anyone has the time to watch TV...
Score: 9 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Jimmy James Avatar
109 months ago
I simply don't care about live TV. I want an Apple TV with full App Store access.
Score: 8 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Rogifan Avatar
109 months ago
If all Apple is planning to do is offer a skinnied down cable package is it really worth it? That skinny package will eventually become bloated; just look at the current TV and the new "channels" that keep being added to it.
Score: 8 Votes (Like | Disagree)

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