CNBC: Apple’s TV bundle to launch in April (video)

Bloomberg reports that a flock of Hollywood celebrities have been invited to the Steve Jobs theater for a March 25 event.

From CNBC’s Apple is targeting April to launch its new video service, but Netflix won’t be a part of it and HBO is in doubt:

Apple is in the final stages of preparing its new streaming video service, which will feature free original content for device owners and a subscription platform for existing digital services. But don’t expect Netflix to be a part of it, and HBO’s participation is also in doubt, according to people familiar with the matter.

Apple is aiming to launch service in April or early May. It will allow customers to sign up for existing digital streaming products and watch them in the iOS TV application, similar to Amazon’s Prime Video Channels. Apple wants to simplify mobile video viewing by housing content in one app instead of forcing users to launch separate apps for each service.

Lions Gate’s Starz; CBS, which owns Showtime; and Viacom are expected to offer subscription streaming services on the Apple platform, according to people familiar with the matter, who asked not to be named because the discussions are private.

HBO may join its premium network brethren but isn’t as far along in discussions with Apple, one of the people said. Apple hasn’t offered HBO the same terms that Amazon offered, said the person.

My take: As expected, more or less. Can’t wait to see what the guys from Sony have been up to.

Cue the video:

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Apple to launch TV service in April: Sources from CNBC.

See also: Full list of Apple’s Hollywood projects, real and rumored

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