In a move to further invest in its sports and subscriptions business, Apple has launched a new app called Apple Sports for iPhone users. The app provides sports fans with access to real-time scores, stats, and other information about their favorite teams and leagues.
Competition for Other Sports Score Aggregators
Apple Sports will be available initially in the U.S., U.K., and Canada, and will include information on various leagues such as MLS, NBA, NCAA, NHL, Bundesliga, LaLiga, Liga MX, Ligue 1, Premier League, and Serie A. The company has stated that more leagues will become available over time, including the MLB, NFL, NCASF, NWSL, and WNBA for their upcoming seasons.
Features of Apple Sports
With the app, users can customize their scoreboards to follow their favorite teams, leagues, and tournaments. They can also switch between various sections such as play-by-play information, team stats, lineup details, and live betting odds. However, it’s worth noting that the betting odds are provided by DraftKings, but there is no revenue-share agreement as the app itself does not support live betting.
Revenue Opportunities for Apple
While the app itself is free to use, it can help Apple direct customers to its other subscription offerings in live sports through its Apple TV app. Users can watch live games from Apple and their other apps through this platform. The company has been investing in its sports business over the past several years, including a 10-year streaming deal with Major League Baseball that began in 2023.
Growing Services Revenue
Apple’s services revenue hit a record of $22.3 billion in the fourth quarter, encompassing areas such as Apple TV+, Apple Music, iCloud, the App Store, advertising, and more. Sports can help Apple grow its services revenue further, and it’s possible that the company may expand its Sports app with paid features over time.
Personalization and Advertising
Apple says users’ sports interests are associated with their Apple ID and will sync across other apps to personalize their experiences in Apple TV and Apple News. Users can turn off syncing if they choose. The data may also be used to improve Apple’s personalized advertising.
Launch of Apple Sports
The launch of the new sports app arrives alongside the kick-off of MLS’ 29th season, and Lionel Messi’s first full season with MLS. Apple TV+ subscribers can add MLS Season Pass at a discounted rate of $12.99 per month or $79 per season.
Availability and System Requirements
Apple Sports is offered in English, French, and Spanish and requires iOS 17.2 or later to download and run.
Impact on the Market
The launch of Apple Sports will likely have an impact on other sports score aggregators available on the App Store. With its robust features and personalized experience, it’s likely that Apple Sports will gain popularity among sports fans.
Conclusion
Apple’s entry into the sports app market with Apple Sports is a significant move for the company. By providing users with access to real-time scores, stats, and other information about their favorite teams and leagues, Apple is further investing in its sports and subscriptions business. With potential revenue opportunities through subscription offerings and personalized advertising, Apple Sports has the potential to grow into a leading platform for sports enthusiasts.
Related Topics
- Apple
- Apps
- iPhone apps
- Sports
