[OutsiderFan]

My source for the Apple TV deal with MLB was Michael Kay on YES Network. I saw an AP report today that refuted the notion anyone would have to have an Apple TV premium subscription to watch MLB games. The AP story said all games would initially be free of charge.  I don't know what "initially" means.  

So to summarize, this is the deal:

- Two MLB games will be broadcast on Apple TV every Friday night
- The games chosen for Apple TV will be exclusively available on Apple TV
- Those games can be seen on Apple TV without a premium subscription

It would appear then that Apple is planning to use the free hook of MLB a a loss leader to advertise the rest of its Apple TV programming like the TV Networks do to promote their Sunday to Friday programming, hoping to convert MLB viewers into paying customers of Apple TV.  Will be interesting to see if they sell ads to traditional advertisers and media sponsors, or if they use it to promote all things Apple.  

Apple made $68 Billion in sales from its subscription services last year, so probably doesn't need to worry about selling ads to make up for the cost of MLB rights and production. They can make it back by selling Apple TV subscriptions.

I'm convinced the Pac-12 is going to Apple TV in the near future, so time to start getting comfortable with Apple TV sports fans!

[OutsiderFan]

My source for the Apple TV deal with MLB was Michael Kay on YES Network. I saw an AP report today that refuted the notion anyone would have to have an Apple TV premium subscription to watch MLB games. The AP story said all games would initially be free of charge.  I don't know what "initially" means.  

So to summarize, this is the deal:

- Two MLB games will be broadcast on Apple TV every Friday night
- The games chosen for Apple TV will be exclusively available on Apple TV
- Those games can be seen on Apple TV without a premium subscription

It would appear then that Apple is planning to use the free hook of MLB a a loss leader to advertise the rest of its Apple TV programming like the TV Networks do to promote their Sunday to Friday programming, hoping to convert MLB viewers into paying customers of Apple TV.  Will be interesting to see if they sell ads to traditional advertisers and media sponsors, or if they use it to promote all things Apple.  

Apple made $68 Billion in sales from its subscription services last year, so probably doesn't need to worry about selling ads to make up for the cost of MLB rights and production. They can make it back by selling Apple TV subscriptions.

I'm convinced the Pac-12 is going to Apple TV in the near future, so time to start getting comfortable with Apple TV sports fans!