In a significant shift for Apple TV+, the streaming service has sold one of its original series, Suspicion, to another platform. UK-based streamer ITVX has acquired the rights to broadcast the thriller, making it the first Apple TV+ show to be sold to a competing service.
Why Apple TV+ Made This Move
Apple has long aimed to expand its viewership, experimenting with various strategies like partnerships with airlines and telecom providers. The sale of Suspicion signals a new approach—Apple is now willing to license content to other platforms, potentially increasing its global reach.
Industry experts speculate that Apple’s decision may be linked to how Suspicion came to be on its platform. The show, starring Uma Thurman, is an English adaptation of the Israeli series False Flag. Since Apple did not originate the concept, it may not have had exclusive ownership rights, allowing for this secondary sale.
What This Means for the Industry
This move could reshape the streaming landscape. Traditionally, platforms like Netflix and Apple TV+ have kept exclusive control over their content. By selling Suspicion, Apple could be testing a new model that enables content sharing while maintaining its core exclusives.
Streaming services are increasingly looking for ways to maximize content value. Apple TV+ has invested heavily in high-budget projects, including Pachinko and CODA, the latter winning a Best Picture Oscar. If this experiment proves successful, more Apple Originals might find their way onto third-party platforms.
Future of Apple TV+ Content
It remains unclear whether Apple will continue selling its shows. However, given the growing competition in streaming, licensing content could provide additional revenue while keeping Apple TV+ competitive. For now, Suspicion remains available on Apple TV+ in the UK, with no official release date announced for its ITVX debut.
