The other day we heard that Apple intends to launch a new movie streaming service, which will be called iTunes Replay, and it looks like the service may be suffering from some of the earlier problems that Apple had getting their iTunes Match music service off the ground.
Apple’s iTunes Match is scheduled to launch in September at the same time as Apple launches iOS 5. It took Apple quite some time to come to an agreement with the record labels on the service, and now it looks like the company is having similar problems with the movie studios.
Apple has yet to sign cloud agreements for feature films with at least four of the top six film studios, according to multiple film industry sources who spoke to CNET. Apple has indeed pursued such agreements, which CNET reported in May, but Apple’s negotiations could drag on for months before the company acquires cloud rights from all six film studios, the sources said. A launch is not imminent, the sources said.
Challenges in Securing Agreements
The delay in launching iTunes Replay can be attributed to the complexities involved in securing cloud agreements with major film studios. Unlike music, where Apple managed to negotiate terms with record labels, the film industry presents a different set of challenges. The studios are cautious about digital rights and the potential impact on their traditional revenue streams from DVD and Blu-ray sales. This cautious approach has led to protracted negotiations, making it difficult for Apple to secure the necessary agreements swiftly.
Moreover, the film industry has a history of being protective over its content. Studios are wary of how streaming services might affect their existing distribution channels, including theatrical releases and physical media sales. This wariness is compounded by the fact that each studio has its own set of priorities and concerns, making the negotiation process even more intricate.
Potential Impact on the Market
If and when iTunes Replay launches, it could significantly impact the movie streaming market. Apple’s entry into this space would mean competition for established players like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu. Given Apple’s vast ecosystem, including millions of iPhone, iPad, and Mac users, iTunes Replay could quickly gain a substantial user base.
Apple’s strategy might also include exclusive content deals, similar to what they have done with Apple TV+. Exclusive content could be a significant draw for users, setting iTunes Replay apart from other streaming services. Additionally, integration with Apple’s existing services, such as iCloud and iTunes, could provide a seamless user experience, making it easier for users to access their purchased and rented movies across all their devices.
So we can expect to see iTunes Replay launch in the near future, but the exact timing really depends on how long it takes Apple to come to an agreement with the movie studios. Given the current state of negotiations, it seems unlikely that iTunes Replay will launch at the same time as iOS 5 and iTunes Match.
In conclusion, while the launch of iTunes Replay is eagerly anticipated, the complexities of securing agreements with film studios mean that the service’s debut might be delayed. However, once launched, iTunes Replay has the potential to be a game-changer in the movie streaming industry, leveraging Apple’s extensive ecosystem and possibly offering exclusive content to attract users.
Source Cnet
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