The news that Apple has withdrawn its timetable to launch the HomePod smart speaker this year is a final buttoning down of the holiday lineup of smart speakers, as we enter Black Friday week. The broken promise of a Q4 launch is certainly disappointing to Apple loyalists who are deep into the ecosystem. Was the HomePod squeezed out of its market position by a surprise maneuver by Sonos? Continue Reading
Apple has delayed the launch of its HomePod smart speaker. The device, which enters the same space as Amazon’s Echo line and the Google Home, will not roll out until early 2018. Continue Reading
Apple’s plans for a major video push continue with the announcement of a new scripted TV show that expands the company’s connections with A-list Hollywood talent. In addition to the reboot of Amazing Stories announced last month, Apple has made a two-season straight-to-series order for a scripted drama centered around a network morning show. Jennifer Aniston and Reese Witherspoon star in the new project, which is still untitled at this stage. Continue Reading
Apple has reported its financial results for its fiscal fourth quarter ending September 30. Quarterly revenue for the tech giant was $52.6 billion, up 12% year-on-year. Earnings for the period also rose 24% to $2.07 per diluted share. Continue Reading
Brief news items and worthy reads from around the web: A difficult road for Apple’s video plans. Behind the scenes at Sonos. Take your Spotify listening to the Upside Down. Continue Reading
Brief news items and worthy reads from around the web: First reactions to Sonos One. iHeartMedia gets a dose of reality (TV). What’s the deal with iPhones and FM chips? Continue Reading
Apple had said it would be pumping $1 billion into video over the next year, and its latest programming development could explain that high price tag. The company has reportedly inked a deal to revive Amazing Stories, the mid-1980s show from Steven Spielberg. Continue Reading
Brief news items and worthy reads from around the web: Measuring the impact of landing on Apple’s front page for a new podcast. Some recent statistics from Gaana. Continue Reading
FCC Commissioner Ajit Pai issued a statement that pushed for Apple to activate FM chips in its phones. Although his missive focused on the laudable goal of public safety in emergencies, the pointed dig at Apple appears misguided. Apple iPhones haven’t contained FM chips for more than a year. Continue Reading
Apple has reportedly inked a new licensing deal with Warner Music Group. Unnamed sources told Bloomberg that the updated arrangement will see Apple paying a smaller share of its revenue. The tech company may also be near to a similar deal update with Sony Music Entertainment, although does not appear to have progressed in talks with Universal Music Group. Continue Reading
Apple is still gunning for a big move into video, according to the latest industry buzz. The Wall Street Journal (paywall) reported that the company plans to invest about $1 billion in its video plans over the next year. A source told WSJ that the money could translate into up to 10 new programs. Continue Reading
Brief news items and worthy reads from around the web: New chapters in the licensing database saga; Apple’s original programming begins with Carpool Karaoke; iHeartRadio’s latest in-car collaboration; Spotify Xbox app reportedly in the works. Continue Reading