Amazon is reportedly working on a new video service that will mimic traditional cable and broadcast models by focusing on live streaming programming, unnamed sources have
told The Wall Street Journal. The project is said to be in early stages, though the sources claim the company has already reached out to at least three major content owners to begin discussions for potential licensing deals.
Amazon already offers a wide range of third-party content and several
original series, including "Alpha House" and "Betas," through its Instant Video on-demand service. The company bridges a gap between a-la-carte providers, dominated by Apple's iTunes, and subscription streaming services such as Netflix.
Long-running rumors suggest Apple may be following a similar path with live streaming programming, associated with the company's rumored TV set, however several of the latest reports point to
project delays due to difficulty in establishing deals. Content owners are said to be hesitant to embrace alternative business models that may be viewed as a threat to established revenue streams from cable and satellite bundles.
Google, Sony and Intel are said to have considered similar offerings, though none of the companies have formally announced significant deals with major content owners. Intel today announced that its Internet television business, known as OnCue, will be
sold to Verizon.
The Wall Street Journal's sources did not indicate if content owners are warming to the concept in their ongoing talks with Amazon.
Top