Apple Considers $1 TV Shows On iPad

Now that the histrionics surrounding the debut of Apple's iPad have fizzled into a rational, and often uninspired, discussion of the device’s actual merits and shortcomings, Apple is left with the iReality of the iPad. Reviews are mixed, but the brand is being proactive about taking the lead regarding the public conversation.

In what may be construed as an attempt to reignite buzz about the iPad – which will be available in April – Apple is planning to sell US television shows for $1 on its newest device. That is half of the current iTunes price, according to Financial Times. Not all of the television networks – some of which continue to remain steeped the paradigms of yesteryear – are happy about the move; however, at this point it remains unclear how many shows will actually be available.

Apple may also offer a $30 monthly subscription package that would provide some version of a "best of TV" service to consumers, but that, too, may be a tough sell. The real issue: Apple – a maverick brand at creating and exploiting opportunities – may be upsetting the apple cart when it comes to distribution relationships that already exist.

The entertainment industry has become notoriously slow when it comes to embracing technological changes in the cultural landscape, and Apple's move to invent a new pricing structure for programming is just another example of the enormous pressure digital media is placing on traditional distribution avenues.

Earlier, Netflix announced that it was working with movie studios to gain direct access to digital versions of films so it could offer downloads instead of DVDs.

Rest assured that Apple is thinking ahead, too.