Despite previous reports, Apple’s subscription streaming service is reportedly now tipped for official launch later this year, not mid-April.
Sources familiar with plans spoke with Variety and confirmed that Apple will provide a “first glimpse” at its new service at its March 25 event, but expect the launch date to be “summer or fall” in the US — winter and spring here.
In January, The Information spoke with three sources who stated that Apple informed studios and networks involved in the new streaming service “to be ready for launch by mid-April.”
Many assumed after The Information‘s report that the March 25 event would not only provide a glimpse of the new content but also launch Apple’s new streaming service and its separate news subscription service.
Apple has inked deals with several production companies to create unique content for the streaming service, including Oprah Winfrey, M. Night Shyamalan, Jennifer Aniston, Reese Witherspoon, and Steven Spielberg.
In addition to original content produced in-house, Apple’s service will also offer access to third-party subscription services, potentially HBO but Netflix and Hulu have already opted out.
Apple’s new focus on services comes as it is looking to boost its revenue amid plummeting iPhone sales, which fell 15% YoY, whereas revenue from services jumped 19% to a record $10.9bn in the quarter, ended 31 December.
