Core Insights - Apple Inc is positioning its streaming segment for potential profitability by acquiring the rights to the successful series "Severance," which is expected to enhance its original content offerings and viewer engagement [2][12] Group 1: Acquisition Details - Apple Studios acquired the rights and intellectual property for "Severance" from Fifth Season for approximately $70 million, aiming to make it a flagship series for its streaming platform [2] - The series has completed two seasons and is set to film a third season this summer, with plans for at least four more seasons, indicating a long-term commitment to the show [3][4] Group 2: Viewership and Profitability - "Severance" has seen its viewership double from season one to season two, and if this trend continues, the show could become profitable in its third season [5] - The acquisition may allow Fifth Season to turn a profit on its previous efforts, which were not profitable during season two [5] Group 3: Streaming Strategy - Since launching AppleTV+ in 2019, the streaming segment has been unprofitable, primarily due to high content acquisition costs, funded by Apple's other profitable ventures [6][11] - Apple has relied heavily on content from other studios, which has limited its negotiating power for renewals and spinoffs, but the company is now shifting focus to producing more in-house content [7][9] Group 4: Future Content Plans - Apple Studios is also developing other original content and has had significant successes, such as the blockbuster "F1," which grossed $189.6 million domestically and $654.5 million worldwide [8] - The company plans to continue licensing content from other studios but aims to acquire less and focus on securing high-quality content through its own studio [9][10]