After months of speculation and rumors regarding Apple's upcoming streaming service, the company may be poised to launch it together with a news subscription service in a special event this month.
On Monday, several digital news outlets reported that Apple began sending out invites to a March 25 event. The press invitation came with a countdown GIF, as traditionally seen before the start of a movie, and ultimately ending with "It's show time."
Apple Gearing Up For Streaming Service
Since last year, Apple has been beefing up the content for its upcoming streaming service. Reports said the company will take the conservative approach, doing away with profanity, sex, and violence. Apple has also been busy signing deals that have something to do with content creation.
The company has already inked deals with stars such as Oprah Winfrey, Reese Witherspoon, M. Night Shyamalan, and Steven Spielberg.
In addition, owners of iOS and tvOS devices such as iPhones, iPads, and Apple TV are expected to view the new content for free. However, the Apple streaming service will also offer subscription channels where users can avail online services from companies such as HBO and Starz.
Apple vs Netflix And Others
Once Apple launches its upcoming streaming service, it will take on Netflix, which sits at the top of the streaming service competition in the United States with over 60 million subscribers. Meanwhile, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and HBO rank second to fourth, respectively, when it comes to market share.
Other new and upcoming streaming services that will compete with Apple's streaming service include the DC Universe service launched last year, CBS All Access, and WarnerMedia's Criterion Collection.
Upcoming News Subscription Service
Aside from the most awaited streaming service, Apple is also poised to unveil a fresh news subscription service. The new service will improve the company's Apple News product and offer subscriptions to several major news outlets in a single bundle. It will be based on Texture, an app that was considered the "Netflix for magazines," and was bought by Apple last year.
Apple's event will take place at the Steve Jobs Theater in Cupertino, California, at 10 a.m. Pacific time.
