Apple Inc. became a colossus by redefining gadgets including the smartphone, the tablet and the smartwatch. As it takes aim at Hollywood, it is working from a very different script. On Friday, the company plans to launch the Apple TV+ video service, its contender in the battle between media and tech giants for people’s streaming dollars. Apple TV+ is slated to start with nine programs, including a buzzy drama about television news called “The Morning Show” featuring Jennifer Aniston, Reese Witherspoon and Steve Carell. Other...
Apple is hoping to lure owners of its 900 million TV+ and 500 million other gadgets worldwide away from Netflix and Hulu to the Apple+ streaming service. As well as undercutting rivals on price – Apple+ costs $4.99 a month – the tech giant is looking at more attractive ways of bundling the offering. They include free access for students who sign up for Apple Music, and a variety of broadcast options, from appointment-TV episodes to entire series available for binge-watching.