Thursday 4 June 2015

Showtime Announces Standalone Streaming Service For iOS and Apple TV

Apple TV is great for streaming video. In fact, it is one of the things that this little black box does really well. If you enjoy shows that belong under the Showtime banner you will soon be able to watch them on iOS and Apple TV without the need for a cable subscription. This is fantastic news and this new streaming service will be available from the 12th of July.

We are still unsure as to whether Apple are going to unveil a new Apple TV or any media streaming deals at next week’s WWDC developer event as the reports that are coming in are mixed, but that hasn’t stopped any of their media partners from cranking out new apps for Apple existing devices. Showtime, the people behind Ray Donovan and other high profile shows, has announced a subscription service that will allow anyone across the United States to watch its content without the need for a cable subscription.

The new subscription is going to be called “Showtime” and will include live TV as well as a back catalog of content. This means that users will be able to watch content on their iPhones, iPads and Apple TV. Subscription costs are really great too at just $10.99 per month and will be available to purchase via Apple’s App Store payment systems.

In a statement on the new partnership with Showtime, Apple’s SVP of Internet Software and Services said that “iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch and Apple TV customers will now be able to subscribe to Showtime directly and instantly start viewing their favorite programming with the same simplicity as buying an app.” Showtime has also confirmed that users will be able to take advantage of a free trial for 30 days if they sign up before the end of July.

Showtime will be making their way to other platforms at a future date but their timed exclusive to Apple really does show the strength of the Cupertino giant, its customer base and its app ecosystem. If the likes of HBO and Showtime are happy to launch apps and streaming services in this manner though, why can’t Apple put something a little more comprehensive together in order to truly take on the cable companies?

Have a look at the video below for the new Showtime offering and see what you think. National Geographic made its debut on Apple TV yesterday and we are certain that the list is going to continue growing with time.

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