Apple TV+ may be in trouble.
It was revealed by the New York Post that Apple TV+ has less than 20 million subscribers. The news comes from the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, a union in the entertainment business.
To compare, Netflix had 209 million subscribers in Q1 of 2021 and Disney+ has 116 million subscribers. According to the report, streaming services with less than 20 million subscribers can pay union members less money. The report says the pay difference is “meaningful.”
Apple doesn’t currently offer any major cult-favorite shows like The Office or Friends. In fact, Apple’s streaming offerings are all original shows and productions. Apple has spent billions of dollars to build up their Apple TV+ roster.
Commentary: I have said since day one, Apple’s streaming service should be an additional offering to Apple users. Currently, you can get Apple TV+ for free with the purchase of a new phone, tablet, or computer from Apple. I think it might be a good idea for Apple to make it free for all Apple users and offer good enough shows that may be able to catch onto larger audiences that non-Apple users may pay the $4.99 fee.
