Apple launches UK IPTV

Apple TV has been launched in the UK, with over 28 series available to download via Apple’s iTunes store.

The move comes two years after Apple TV was launched in the USA, with mixed results, due to the relative immaturity of the video download market compared with the music download market.

While at present there is little programming originating from the UK, Apple TV does offer popular US programming such as Lost and Desperate Housewives.

Episodes are charged at £1.89 each.

The service differs significantly from current IPTV offerings by the BBC and Channel 4, which allow viewers to catch up with shows, rather than keep them. Apple TV allows users to download and keep copies of the shows they download.

However, Apple has suggested that future partnerships with UK broadcasters should not be ruled out.