Apple is reportedly in talks with content providers, such as CBS and Disney, in order to establish a new, subscription-based TV service, according to The Wall Street Journal.The California-based company has spent much of the past decade expanding its reach from simply producing computers and interfaces to the multifaceted tech empire it is today. Apple has chanced new ventures in the past, most notably the highly successful iPod and iPhone - a real game changer when it came to the explosion of the mobile web - and the iTunes music store.
However, another, less-successful product - 2007's Apple TV - could be seen as a test run for the rumoured subscription service. The venture would offer viewers access to selected programmes for a flat monthly fee, the WSJ reports, with a speculated 2010 release date.
The Cupertino company, which currently sells TV shows and films through its online iTunes store, would need to reach licensing agreements with several content providers before this new project could see the light of day.
The talk of a subscription-based Apple service adds to a 2009 rumour mill that has also included Apple-branded high-definition TVs and its submission for patent of a sophisticated remote control system. But with sites such as BBC iPlayer going from strength to strength, this could be a key area for the Apple innovators to tap into in the coming months and there are plenty fans of the brand out there who'd happily welcome a new addition to their Apple family.
