The Wall Street Journal reports that Apple (AAPL +0.82%) is in discussions with Comcast (CMCSA 0.04%) over a possible partnership, whereby Apple would provide the set-top boxes for cable customers as well as get favorable traffic treatment for video service. The companies are not close to an agreement, but negotiations are supposedly under way. Meanwhile, Apple has been in discussions with Time Warner Cable (NYSE: TWC) for nearly two years -- which Comcast also hopes to acquire.
Apple has long expressed interest in the TV market, even if it may not have a lot of financial upside. The Mac maker has the chance to modernize the interface and experience, but needs a service provider to complete the puzzle. The monetary implications of selling set-top boxes to all of Comcast customers would not be game-changing, although it would certainly add up. Strategically, such a deal could further strengthen Apple's halo and product ecosystem.
In this segment of Tech Teardown, Erin Kennedy discusses how Apple could benefit from partnering with Comcast with Evan Niu, CFA, our tech and telecom bureau chief.
