Apple has partnered with Bharti Airtel, India’s second-largest telecom provider, to boost its presence in the Indian video and music streaming Market, where it currently has less than 1 million users. This collaboration will offer many of Airtel’s 281 million customers free access to Apple Music and Apple TV+, aiming to expand user adoption in a competitive landscape dominated by Spotify and Disney. While Apple Music is better suited for Indian audiences with localized content, it still trails behind other platforms. The deal reflects Apple’s efforts to enhance its service revenue in India, where it has primarily focused on manufacturing and supply chain diversification.
Apple’s New Partnership in India Boosts Streaming Efforts
Apple is making waves in India by partnering with Bharti Airtel, the country’s second-largest telecom provider. This collaboration is set to significantly enhance Apple’s presence in the Indian streaming Market, where it currently lags behind competitors like Spotify and Disney+. With fewer than 1 million users in India, the move is a strategic attempt to expand Apple Music and Apple TV+ offerings to Airtel’s massive customer base of 281 million.
Through this partnership, Airtel’s postpaid customers will gain free access to Apple Music and Apple TV+. This strategy echoes successful initiatives in the U.S., where Apple has previously bundled its music and video services with mobile plans. Notably, Apple Music is tailored more towards the Indian audience, featuring popular Bollywood and regional songs, although its library still falls short compared to Spotify.
Despite Apple’s efforts to establish itself in the Indian smartphone Market, its iPhones only account for 6% of the 690 million smartphones used in the country. This partnership with Airtel is an ambitious move to increase its user base in a booming Market where the demand for streaming services is on the rise.
In the competitive landscape, Spotify leads with about 3 million paid users while Apple Music stands at around 200,000. The overall number of people who pay for audio streaming services in India remains relatively low, with only about 7.5 million subscribers reported last year.
As Apple looks to strengthen its position in India, it’s clear that the company is leveraging strategic partnerships to enhance its services and gain a foothold in the streaming wars.
Tags: Apple, Bharti Airtel, India, streaming services, Apple Music, Apple TV+, Spotify, telecommunications, digital media, content Market.
What is the new deal between Apple and Airtel in India?
Apple and Airtel have teamed up to offer Apple Music and Apple TV+ to Airtel customers, making it easier for them to enjoy these services.
How can Airtel customers access Apple Music and Apple TV+?
Airtel customers can subscribe to Apple Music and Apple TV+ through their Airtel plans, often getting discounts or bundled offers.
Is there an extra cost for Airtel users to get these services?
Yes, while Airtel users may get discounts, they will still need to pay for the subscriptions to Apple Music and Apple TV+.
What benefits do Airtel and Apple customers get from this deal?
Customers can enjoy a wide range of music and movies, plus they may get better access and prices than with other services.
When will this offer be available to Airtel customers?
The offer is already rolling out, so Airtel customers can start accessing Apple Music and Apple TV+ now.