Apple takes its first steps into live football

In addition to selling iPhones, Macs, watches and other hardware products, Apple also relies on services to diversify its sources of income. And the Cupertino company is particularly present on the streaming market. To stand out, it relies on the quality of the content on Apple TV+. But Apple is also interested in live sports. Last year, it formalized a partnership with the MLB, the American baseball league, allowing it to broadcast a few games on Apple TV+.

And this partnership with the MLB was only the beginning, since Apple is also interested in football. In a press release, it has just presented a new subscription called MLS Season Pass. A new product available all over the world which will allow subscribers to watch live all the football matches of the American championship. This subscription is offered at 13.99 euros per month, or 88 euros per season.

Obviously, the American football championship does not have the same potential audience as Ligue 1 in France. And unfortunately, only matches with Canadian teams will be commented in French. Nevertheless, the launch of this new product signals Apple’s interest in sports content. And this is a product that could be a hit in North America (or among expatriate Americans?).

An interesting product (if the championship interests you)

In any case, the fact that the product is available all over the world is quite exceptional. In addition, the Cupertino company does not just broadcast the matches. The Pass also gives access to pre- and post-game content. “In addition to the matches, the MLS Season Pass will provide fans with an exclusive five-hour live broadcast recap of the highlights of all fixtures, from the first East Coast matches through to the final whistle of the West Coast matches. ”says the firm.

© Apple

Content has also been prepared for non-game days. And Apple has created dedicated pages for each team on its Apple TV app. In addition, the new service benefits from integration with Apple Music and Apple Maps. On the music streaming service, the firm offers playlists created by clubs. And on Maps, “Fans will be able to check out Apple Maps for access to matchday guides put together by MLS clubs including Atlanta United, Nashville SC and Toronto FC, as well as bar and restaurant recommendations venues showing matches, detailed stadium information, and other content.”

In essence, Apple is trying to provide a complete experience for fans of the American championship, by providing other content in addition to live matches, and by integrating additional experiences on other applications. Remember that like Apple, Amazon and YouTube also broadcast live matches. On the other hand, Netflix is ​​not currently interested in this type of content.