Apple TV+, known for its premium, ad-free streaming experience, might soon join ad-supported streaming services.
While the service has been ad-free since its launch in 2019, it appears Apple is exploring options for ad-supported versions.
Why AppleTV Ads Now?
According to The Telegraph, Apple is in talks with the Broadcaster’s Audience Research Board (BARB) in the UK.
BARB is a leading rating agency with access to viewership data for Apple TV+ content. These meetings indicate that Apple is actively considering advertising options.
Ad-supported streaming services have gained popularity recently. Both Netflix and Disney+ launched an ad-supported plan in 2022. Amazon Prime Video also introduced an ad-supported option, requiring Prime members to pay extra for an ad-free version of the service.
Apple has spent more than $20 billion on Apple TV+ content but sees a decline in viewership numbers.
According to the report, the service captures just 0.2% of TV audiences in the US, far behind competitors like Netflix and Disney+​​. Offer a cheaper, ad-supported plan to boost revenue and get more subscribers.
How Will It Affect Users?
When Apple TV+ launched, it offered ad-free content for $4.99 per month. However, over time, the subscription price increased to $6.99/month in late 2022 and further to $9.99/month in late 2023.
If Apple introduces an ad-supported plan, it’s likely to be priced closer to the original $4.99 starting point.
This could make Apple TV+ more affordable, but interrupt the viewing experience with ads. Meanwhile, existing ad-free plans might see a price hike, following a common trend among streaming platforms.
While no official announcement has been made, Apple TV+ ads seem soon.
How do you feel about Apple TV+ introducing ads? Will you opt for a cheaper ads plan, or stick to the premium ad-free experience?