As Apple continues to drive forward with its media ambitions, music labels are starting to again chafe at the iPhone maker's growing power.
Tim Cook disclosing the Apple TV+ pricing per month.
According to sources familiar with the matter, Apple is discussing terms of a all-encompassing bundle for users, placing all of Apple's services like Apple Music and Apple TV+ under one payment. But, a long-time partner and foe, sometimes simultaneously, is reportedly having some issues with Apple's terms.
Some music executives from companies that Apple has had a tumultuous relationship since the dawn of the iTunes Music Store are said to be concerned about margins, should Apple bundle its services in one offering. As is typical with Apple's dealings with the music industry over the years, Apple's plan isn't being universally panned -- some executives are reportedly on-board with an omnibus offer.
Talks are allegedly at an "early stage," according to the report from the Financial Times on Monday.
Reports that Apple was considering a large bundle started surfacing in June 2018. At the time, it was disclosed that Apple was evaluating delivering a comprehensive subscription service that would rival similar plans marketed by Amazon and, to some extent, Netflix.
Apple's revenue from Services is becoming a more important source of revenue for Apple. The company presently makes money from media with Apple Music at $9.99 per month for a individual subscription, Apple News also for $9.99 a month, and Apple Arcade at $4.99 per month.
Another part of what would be included in an "all-Apple" subscriptions bundle is Apple TV+. Apple's streaming video service consists of all-unique content, and will launch on November 1for $4.99 a month. Purchasers of new Apple hardware releases after September 10 will get a year of Apple TV+ service for free.