The new Apple TV app aggregates TV channels, streaming services, and movies on one platform. (Bloomberg)
The new Apple TV app aggregates TV channels, streaming services, and movies on one platform. (Bloomberg)
Apple pivots as a services firm: Key announcements from the event
Apple made several announcements at its Show Time event in Cupertino on Monday. The tech giant announced various new services at the Steve Jobs Amphitheatre, where celebrities like Steven Spielberg, Jennifer Aniston, and Jason Momoa were also present. Here’s a look at the services
1
Apple News+’includes 300 magazines priced at $9.99
This includes publishers like the LA Times, WSJ, Vogue, Wired, and National Geographic. Apple is also allowing family sharing of the service, and the first month is free. It will go live today in the US. It will also be available in Canada with Canadian magazines in both English and French. The service will be further extended to Australian and European markets later this year. Indian availability hasn’t been announced yet.
2
Apple Card announced a software version of a credit card
Apple has partnered with Goldman Sachs to bring this service, and Mastercard powers it on the payment processing end. The card will be linked to the Wallet app and have no CVV number, expiration, or signature. Apple said users will get a per-device card number that’s stored securely while the transactions can be done via Face ID and Touch ID. Apple also mentioned it won’t charge penalty rates if you miss a payment. It noted it would offer low interest rates but hasn’t provided more details. Apple hasn’t announced its availability in markets other than the US.
3
Apple Arcade: A subscription service for mobile, desktop, and the living room
Apple Arcade is a subscription service that gives you access to more than 100 games at launch. The games are exclusive, too—they aren’t present on any other platform or subscription service. These games will be available for offline access and can be played across Apple platforms, including iOS and Mac OS. Apple Arcade will be available this fall in over 150 countries. Apple hasn’t revealed the pricing of this service.
4
New Apple TV app with Apple TV Channels
The new Apple TV app aggregates TV channels, streaming services, and movies on one platform. Apple lets you choose the content you want to watch instead of going for a big package you’d never be able to consume entirely. The app has a new interface and recommendation engine. The app is available on Macs and smart TVs, including those made by Samsung, LG, Sony, and Vizio. It is also available on Roku and Amazon Fire Stick. Apple is planning to support TV apps in more than 100 countries.
