How Apple TV+ fares against competitors in India?
Apple TV+ has gone live in over 100 countries around the globe including India. The iPhone maker's new streaming service takes on popular OTT platforms with a bunch of original shows for which the tech giant has spent over $6 billion (roughly Rs. 43,000 crore). But how does its subscription compare against established rivals such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Hotstar in India?
So, much does Apple TV+ cost in India?
Apple TV+ costs Rs. 99/month for a family plan wherein up to six members can simultaneously stream content. Notably, the company is also offering a 1-year free subscription to anyone who bought a new iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Mac, or Apple TV after September 10. For students, Apple TV+ subscription will be bundled free with the Apple Music student plan, which costs Rs. 49/month.
You can enjoy Apple TV+ on non-Apple devices as well
Apple TV+ can be accessed on the iPhone, iPod touch, iPad, Apple TV, Mac, Fire TV Stick, and select smart TVs using the Apple TV app. However, if you don't have these devices, you can stream Apple TV+ shows via tv.apple.com on any browser.
Meanwhile, here's a look at Netflix's plans in India
Its competitor Netflix's Basic monthly subscription starts at Rs. 199 for the mobile-only plan. Then, there is Rs. 499/month pack which allows non-HD streaming on one device. The Standard plan costs Rs. 649 (HD streaming on two screens) while the Premium plan, offering HD/UHD content on four devices, is priced at Rs. 799/month. It offers a great collection of original series, documentaries, and films.
What about Amazon's Prime Video service?
Apple will also face competition from Amazon Prime Video, which isn't a standalone service. Instead, it comes bundled with Prime membership and offers access to movies, TV shows and some original titles. In India, Amazon Prime membership costs Rs. 129/month or Rs. 999 annually. Additionally, members also get access to Prime Music, Prime Reading, early access to sales and free, faster deliveries on Amazon.
What are the benefits of Hotstar Premium?
Separately, Hotstar Premium costs Rs. 999/year or Rs. 299/month and it offers un-cut and ad-free access to the latest American as well as Indian TV Shows. The service also offers several movies, original shows, and live sports including cricket, Premier League and Formula 1. It also has a Hotstar VIP plan which costs Rs. 365/year but misses on international content.
