Apple is getting into live sports programming. The company has struck a deal with Major League Baseball (MLB) to broadcast two games on Friday nights on Apple TV+ in 8 countries.
Live sports on Apple TV+
The news was announced today at Apple's virtual 'Peek Performance' event. Live sports programming will be an addition to the series, movies and documentaries already available on Apple TV+.
- "Just like all baseball fans, we can’t wait for the season to open," said Peter Stern, Apple’s vice president of Services. "Baseball has a special place in the heart of so many Apple customers — not just in the United States, but in many countries around the world. We’re proud to make Apple TV+ the home for great baseball moments throughout the season."
Apple said that it the deal cover live pre- and postgame shows that will be available the US, Canada, Australia, Brazil, Japan, Mexico, Puerto Rico, South Korea, and the UK. The MLB deal will expand to additional countries at a later date, the company said.
Friday Night Baseball is coming to Apple TV+
In the US, fans can also watch 'MLB Big Inning' every weeknight during the regular season, and in the US and Canada fans will have access to 24/7 livestreams with MLB game replays, news and analysis, highlights, classic games, and more, as well as a full complement of on-demand programming, including highlights and MLB-themed original content.
The matches will be available from the Apple TV app on Apple TV HD and 4K, Mac, iPad, and iPhone as well as other platforms such as select TVs from other brands, game consoles, and set-top boxes. The matches will be available without the need for a subscription for a limited time.
- "Apple is the ideal partner to bring ‘Friday Night Baseball’ to fans around the world," said Noah Garden, MLB’s chief revenue officer. "Following milestones like the launch of At Bat on day one of the App Store in 2008 to the integration of Apple technology in ballparks across the country, this robust new game package is the perfect next collaboration in our long history of offering quality and innovative content to our fans. With national availability and international reach, MLB on Apple TV+ offers an exciting new platform to fans that allows a wider audience to connect with the game."
Also read: Apple TV+ announces 2022 movie slate
Rumor says that Apple is also interested in securing rights to National Football League (NFL).
Apple TV+ has a free 7-day trial after which it costs $5 per month
