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Apple Mac sites are ablaze with rumours that the computer maker is preparing to unveil a video iPod to exploit existing features in its flagship music player. The California company is said to have initiated behind-the-scenes talks with executives at major record labels, media companies and animation giant, Disney. All of the reported discussions indicate any new agreement to license content to a video iPod would run off existing features within iTunes, such as the recently updated QuickTime video support. Observers suggest if a deal is struck between Disney and Apple, as first disclosed by Business2.0, the signing would signal the latter company’s interest in making the jump from technology darling - to content provider. Paul Sloan of B2.0 says an e-mail he obtained shows clearly that Apple’s sights are firmly set on offering users a portable movie player, with a range of possible content. “Steve Jobs has spoken with Disney President and soon-to-be CEO Bob Iger about ways to license various Disney content for a video iPod… that could include anything from clips from ESPN and ABC News to short cartoons.” Sloan predicted Jobs, in keeping with the iPod launch, would be seen entering “the arena late” in a bid to “leapfrog over the competition” from the likes of Microsoft and Sony. A host of mobile phone companies including T-Mobile and Motorola are also likely to be bitten should Apple choose its release date carefully, as its telecoms competitors hurriedly prepare launches of musical mobile handsets. The Wall Street Journal this week fanned the flames of speculation over the video iPod by claiming the big four record labels were another party negotiating with Jobs; the Apple CEO whose iTunes software claims 75 per cent of all music downloads from the internet. Claims were also made that a number of “media companies” had joined the dialogue over the ‘ViPod’ as part of plan to provide TV programmes through the anticipated service, which industry predicts could be seen as early as September this year. The paper’s report focused more however on how talks had started with Sony, EMI, Warner and BMG about how Apple can legally sell their music videos and portfolios through its iTunes music store. Apple would then be empowered to simply re-direct its existing army of music fans across to video format, at an expected price of $1.99 per music video download. It is understood there will be discounts available for customers buying a song and a video at the same time, in what appears to be the first sign Apple is conscious about the pricing model of what Mac fans hope will be the company’s next best-selling product. Jul 20, 2005 Email this article Printer friendly page Previous Page
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