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 iPhones and 500 million other gadgets worldwide away from Hollywood 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.