The Apple TV app expands its distribution network. In a somewhat unexpected move, the app now works with a select number of Amazon Fire TV devices. Further expansion comes soon. Look for the Apple TV app to appear on Fire TV.
Apple TV+ represents the tech giant’s foray into online streaming. The notion the app works with Amazon products is eye-opening. Amazon produces Amazon Prime, a streaming service not unlike Netflix or the new Disney platform. Apple TV+ would compete for subscriber dollars with Amazon’s service, so Amazon’s working agreement with Disney is a surprise. Then again, many Prime subscribers likely sign up to take advantage of free and expedited shipping, so Amazon might not worry as much about defections.
Look for the Apple TV+ app on Fire TV Stick and Fire TV Stick 4K in the U.S. and select countries. Access to the app is now possible through Roku. In time, Apple should develop even more strategic partners to increase its access to an audience further. The more people able to subscribe to the service, the more revenue Apple could potentially earn.
Apple TV+ does have one obstacle to overcome. The streaming service doesn’t come with a full library of programming. Netflix affords subscribers with hundreds of old television shows and movies. With Apple TV+, subscribers can watch original content programming and nothing else. At least that is how things will work at first.
Apple may find it cost-effective to avoid paying acquisition prices for a library. Netflix spent billions and is not coming anywhere close to making money back in subscriber dollars.
Apple TV+ does allow users to stream anything they purchased on iTunes. The iTunes compatibility creates a de facto personal library, but users aren’t getting something beyond what they already purchased. They do acquire a new way to watch their iTunes content, which comes off as a perk for them.
