A report by The New York Times on Thursday says Time Warner Cable is working on an application for the Apple TV set-top box that will allow their cable service subscribers to stream both live and on-demand content without the need for a standard cable box.
The new software in the works will “effectively add an Apple layer on top of the TV screen,” according to a report published Thursday by The New York Times. Apple’s own programming guide will allegedly offer an experience “far superior” to anything Time Warner can offer customers on its own.
TWC’s chief operating officer, Rob Marcus, indicated last year that he would be willing to give up user interface control to Apple if it were to offer customers a better experience and earn more subscribers.
Thursday’s report says Apple has changed its approach with content providers, and is looking to work with cable providers, rather than individual channels. Apple is reported to be looking to collect a fee from distributors like Time Warner in exchange for enhancing their service.
Reports of a content deal with Time Warner first surfaced earlier this month, but details were light.
Apple is also said to be working on a “premium” service for Apple TV that would allow viewers to pay for the privilege of skipping through commercials. A cut of that fee would then be given to cable providers.
