Apple signed content partnership with Oprah Winfrey

On 15/06/2018, Apple Inc. announced a multi year content partnership with Oprah Winfrey to develop original programming for Apple’s upcoming streaming service, later launched as Apple TV+. Apple described the agreement as a unique collaboration aimed at creating original content designed to reach global audiences. The company stated that Winfrey would produce programs in partnership with Apple, leveraging her production company Harpo Films and her experience in television and media production. Specific projects were not identified at the time of the announcement. Reports following the announcement indicated that the collaboration could include various formats such as television series, films, and other digital content. The partnership was described as non exclusive, with Harpo Films reportedly retaining ownership of the content produced under the agreement. The arrangement allowed Winfrey to continue working across multiple platforms. The deal also did not include podcasts, as Winfrey maintained separate distribution arrangements for audio content. The announcement confirmed that the partnership would not affect Winfrey’s existing role as Chairman and CEO of the Oprah Winfrey Network, a joint venture with Discovery Inc. Winfrey had recently extended her contract with OWN through 2025. Apple’s agreement with Winfrey formed part of the company’s broader investment in original programming ahead of the launch of Apple TV+, which was introduced publicly in 2019 and released later that year.