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Apple wants more sports rights, change how broadcasts are done, Eddy Cue says
CNBCยท 2025-10-15 21:21
Core Viewpoint - Apple is interested in acquiring more sports broadcasting rights but aims to offer unique and innovative viewing experiences that differentiate its service from competitors [1][2][6]. Group 1: Current Sports Broadcasting Strategy - Apple TV currently broadcasts Major League Baseball games on Friday nights and has a package for Major League Soccer, allowing subscribers to watch all MLS matches [2]. - The company has not secured rights to major American sports leagues like the NFL and NBA, which have partnered with other platforms such as YouTube and Amazon Prime [3]. - Apple Original Films released a licensed movie titled "F1," which grossed over $550 million at the box office, indicating the company's interest in sports content [3]. Group 2: Issues with Current Sports Broadcasting - Eddy Cue expressed a desire to address several issues in sports broadcasts, including blackouts, the necessity of multiple subscriptions, and accessibility for viewers traveling [4]. - Cue suggested that leagues should collaborate with broadcast partners to enhance features like picture-in-picture for simultaneous games on different services [5]. Group 3: Differentiation and Future Plans - Apple aims to create a "level of differentiation" in its sports broadcasts, highlighting superior video quality and innovative camera angles, such as placing an iPhone on a foul pole during an MLB game [6]. - The company prefers to negotiate deals for broadcasting entire leagues internationally rather than individual game packages, viewing its Friday Night Baseball as a test to understand the broadcasting landscape [7].