Apple in talks over online film rental: Report
Apple is in advanced talks with Hollywood's largest film studios on launching an online film rental service to challenge cable and satellite television operators.
By Agencies |
LONDON: US computer and software group Apple is in advanced talks with Hollywood's largest film studios on launching an online film rental service to challenge cable and satellite television operators, the Financial Times reported on Monday.
Apple declined to comment on the report when contacted by the British business daily. A film would cost $2.99 (2.24 euros) for a 30-day rental. Its digital rights-management software would allow films to be moved from a computer to at least one other device such as the video iPod or iPhone.
Apple already sells films that can be downloaded and owned and has distribution deals with Walt Disney and Paramount. Other studios have shied away from tie-ups with Apple because of concerns that digital downloading may hit DVD sales.
The report said Apple is believed to be aiming for release later this year. The newspaper said the service could be significant for Apple because if it signs enough studios the group will get access to more premium film content.
The software would prevent movies being copied. One studio executive said the service would "compete against cable companies and anyone else offering VOD (video on demand) into the home." Film studios Sony Pictures Entertainment, 20th Century Fox, Paramount, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, Warner Bros and Disney declined to comment.
Apple declined to comment on the report when contacted by the British business daily. A film would cost $2.99 (2.24 euros) for a 30-day rental. Its digital rights-management software would allow films to be moved from a computer to at least one other device such as the video iPod or iPhone.
Apple already sells films that can be downloaded and owned and has distribution deals with Walt Disney and Paramount. Other studios have shied away from tie-ups with Apple because of concerns that digital downloading may hit DVD sales.
The report said Apple is believed to be aiming for release later this year. The newspaper said the service could be significant for Apple because if it signs enough studios the group will get access to more premium film content.
The software would prevent movies being copied. One studio executive said the service would "compete against cable companies and anyone else offering VOD (video on demand) into the home." Film studios Sony Pictures Entertainment, 20th Century Fox, Paramount, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, Warner Bros and Disney declined to comment.
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