Apple is apparently planning on adding new features to its Apple News+ subscription service. The company is looking to add audio versions of publishers’ articles and content, which could significantly enhance the user experience by providing an alternative way to consume news.
According to a recent report by Digiday, Apple has been in discussions with existing Apple News+ publishers about testing out this new feature. Apple will pay the publishers the same as before and cover the production costs.
Apple will handle production costs and compensate publishers in the same way it compensates them for the written content available on Apple News+, two sources said; Apple metes out 50% of subscriber revenue to publishers based on how much time those subscribers spend with publishers’ content in a 30-day period.
Benefits of Audio News
This would be a beneficial feature for Apple News+ as it would allow users to listen to news stories just like they would a podcast or music. This is particularly advantageous for people who are on the go and may not have the time to sit down and read articles. For instance, commuters could listen to the latest news updates while driving or taking public transportation. Similarly, people who are multitasking, such as cooking or exercising, could stay informed without having to read.
Moreover, audio news can be a great tool for individuals with visual impairments or reading difficulties. By providing an audio option, Apple News+ would become more inclusive, catering to a broader audience. This aligns with Apple’s ongoing commitment to accessibility and user-friendly design.
Potential Challenges and Considerations
However, there are some challenges and considerations that Apple will need to address. One of the primary concerns is the quality of the audio content. Producing high-quality audio versions of articles requires skilled narrators and sound engineers, which could be a significant investment. Apple will need to ensure that the audio content is engaging and easy to listen to, maintaining the high standards that users expect from the brand.
Another consideration is the potential impact on data usage. Streaming audio content can consume a considerable amount of data, which might be a concern for users with limited data plans. Apple could address this by allowing users to download audio content for offline listening, similar to how podcasts and music are handled on the platform.
Additionally, Apple will need to consider how to integrate this new feature seamlessly into the existing Apple News+ interface. The user experience should be intuitive, allowing users to easily switch between reading and listening modes. This could involve adding new controls and options within the app, such as playback speed adjustments and bookmarking features.
It is not clear as yet when Apple will be introducing this new feature. As soon as we get some more information, we will let you guys know. The addition of audio versions of articles could be a game-changer for Apple News+, setting it apart from other news aggregation services and providing a more versatile and user-friendly experience.
Source Digiday
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