NBCUniversal, Apple bundle streaming services
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In a bid to bulk up their respective streaming services, Apple and NBCUniversal have agreed to offer Peacock and Apple TV together — another major tie-up between competitors.
The two companies announced the partnership Thursday in an effort to reach more customers and keep them subscribing month after month. Apple-paired Peacock Premium will be available for $14.99 a month, while Apple and Peacock Premium Plus will be offered for $19.99 a month.
The move accelerates streaming consolidation as companies look to better compete against Netflix and Amazon Prime, both of which offer hundreds of programs. Walt Disney Co. already is bundling its three services along with Warner Bros. Discovery’s HBO Max.
The bundled plans become available Monday.
As part of the deal, NBCUniversal and Peacock will pay $1.5 million to L.A. County’s Department of Consumer and Business Affairs; $100,000 to cover the investigation costs and $2 million in civil penalties.
“We’re thrilled to introduce this all-inclusive bundle of incredible programming and to bring Apple TV’s beloved shows and movies to more viewers in more places,” Oliver Schusser, Apple’s vice president of Apple TV, Apple Music, Sports, and Beats, said in a statement. “From acclaimed originals to can’t-miss live sports, the Apple TV and Peacock Bundle unites the best of entertainment in a simple and seamless experience.”
The arrangement represents a discount to consumers when compared to subscribing to the services separately. Apple TV is currently offered at $12.99 a month, and Peacock plans range from $10.99 to $14.99 a month.
Apple brings its award-winning programming, including “Ted Lasso,” “Severance,” and “Shrinking,” while NBCUniversal offers sports, including NBA basketball, Premier League soccer and the Olympics, and a deep library of television shows such as “Poker Face” and the “Real Housewives” franchise, and movies, including family fare such as “How to Train Your Dragon.”
NBCUniversal also has been in negotiations to land a Major League Baseball package beginning next year, and Apple has streamed Friday night regular season baseball games.
The announcement comes three months after NBCUniversal, owned by Comcast, hiked its monthly fees for Peacock by $3.
“There is no more perfect combination of entertainment than the Apple TV and Peacock Bundle, with our complementary content portfolios featuring the best shows, movies, sports and live events,” said Matt Strauss, chair of NBCUniversal Media Group.
Disney takes on Netflix, as HBO Max, Peacock, Apple TV+ and Quibi prepare to enter the streaming fray. Not all will be able to thrive in the increasingly crowded market, analysts warn.
