Netflix, Hulu, HBO, Amazon Prime…and now Apple is throwing its hat into the streaming service ring. (Sorry, basic cable, but this hasn’t been working for awhile.)
The tech giant announced the long-gestating news about its new subscription service, Apple TV+, with loads of razzle-dazzle via a press conference on Monday. No-namers like Oprah Winfrey (who received a standing ovation), Reese Witherspoon, Steven Spielberg and Jennifer Aniston were all there to usher in the news.
But, cut through all the fancy Apple production value and what do you get? Here’s everything you need to know about Apple TV+.
- The new app, called Apple TV Channels, will let users stream Apple’s original content, plus HBO Go, Starz and whatever other subscriptions you choose to have, all in one place (and not via separate apps, like the Apple TV service is currently set up).
- Apple TV+ is the new streaming service of the phone company’s original content.
- Apple TV+ is already creating some 34 original shows, including Witherspoon and Aniston’s new The Morning Show starring Steve Carell. (See ya never, free time.)
- Oprah is working on two documentaries and a book club for Apple TV+, which will include live-stream shows from authors.
- Apple TV+ channels will be available in May on iPhones, iPads and Apple TV set-top boxes. Support for Mac computers is due in the fall, Apple said.
- Certain Smart TVs from Samsung, LG, Sony and Vizio as well as Roku and Amazon Fire TV will be able to download the new Apple TV app as well.
- No prices have been announced yet, but the new streaming service will be released this fall.
