MAM
Apple’s TV service would pay networks to allow ad skipping
MUMBAI: Adding to rumors of Apple‘s supposed set-top cable box plans, a report on Monday claims the company is in the thick of talks with media executives over a “premium” level of the alleged service that would allow users to skip ads entirely.
According to the report, Apple recently informed networks about the “premium” version of the as-yet-unannounced service, which would theoretically have users of the proposed service pay Apple for the ability to skip ads.
While the system has yet to be detailed, similar offerings found heavy resistance from broadcasters. For example, Dish Network launched an ad-skipping technology in 2012, and was subsequently sued for its efforts.
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Apple is already seeing resistance from cable providers over its streaming services. When HBO launched the HBO Go app for Apple TV, some cable and satellite companies pushed back by refusing to authenticate the app for streaming.
With the advent of the DVR, however, an increasing amount of America‘s television-watching public are fast-forwarding through commercials. This could give Apple some leverage in negotiations, though details regarding the talks are few and far between.
Rumors of an Apple-branded set-top cable box have been floating around the web for nearly one year, with initial reports of the company‘s alleged plans coming in August 2012. Unlike DVRs, which store content on-site, Apple‘s rumored system would be cloud-based, meaning enhanced viewing flexibility and data handling.
Fanning the flames of an Apple partnership with at least one cable company, currently thought to be Time Warner, both CEO Tim Cook and SVP of Internet Software and Services Eddy Cue attended this year‘s Sun Valley conference and met with a number of media firms. The event, hosted by New York-based investment bank Allen & Co, brings together moguls from the media and tech industries for four days of lectures, discussions, and networking.
Brands
Ola Electric announces Champion Mahotsav with Rs 10,000 benefits
Three-day offer across scooters and motorcycles celebrates India’s T20 World Cup win
BENGALURU: Ola Electric has announced #ChampionMahotsav, a three-day nationwide celebration offering benefits worth Rs 10,000 across its vehicle portfolio, following India’s historic third ICC Men’s T20 World Cup victory.
During the limited-period celebration, customers can avail benefits worth Rs 10,000 on any Ola scooter or Roadster motorcycle, extending the festive mood among fans after the national triumph.
An Ola Electric spokesperson said the initiative builds on the strong response received during the company’s earlier Match Mahotsav campaign held during the tournament final.
“Our Match Mahotsav during the T20 World Cup Final received an incredible response from fans across the country. To celebrate India’s historic third T20 World Cup victory, we are extending the celebrations for three more days with #ChampionMahotsav, offering benefits worth Rs 10,000 on any Ola vehicle,” the spokesperson said.
Ola Electric currently offers a broad portfolio of Gen 3 S1 scooters and Roadster X motorcycles.
The premium Gen 3 S1 range includes the Ola S1 Pro+ in 5.2kWh and 4kWh configurations, and the Ola S1 Pro in 4kWh and 3kWh options, priced at Rs 1,85,338, Rs 1,65,338, Rs 1,39,999 and Rs 1,19,999 respectively.
In the mass segment, the company offers the Ola S1 X+ with a 4kWh battery, along with the Ola S1 X in 2kWh, 3kWh and 4kWh configurations, priced at Rs 1,14,999, Rs 77,999, Rs 93,999 and Rs 1,09,999 respectively.
Ola’s motorcycle line-up includes the Ola Roadster X+ in 4.5kWh and 9.1kWh configurations priced at Rs 1,04,999 and Rs 1,84,999. The Ola Roadster X is available in 2.5kWh, 3.5kWh and 4.5kWh options, priced at Rs 74,999, Rs 87,999 and Rs 94,999 respectively.
With #ChampionMahotsav, the company aims to ride the celebratory wave across the country while encouraging more consumers to switch to electric mobility.
