Hulu on iPad likely a subscription only service
They’re aliens and this is how they roll. Or perhaps this is only way Apple and AT&T could be convinced to allow the best and most popular streamed television service onto the iPhone, iPod touch and, soon, iPad.
AllThingsD brings the hopefully good news that Hulu will indeed be available on the iPad, though it will more than likely require a paid subscription.
Want Hulu on your iPad? Be ready to pay — that’s how these aliens roll.
In fact, Hulu’s owners — CBS, ABC and Fox — have long said they’d like to find a premium way to repackage and sell the service and this could be it. To date, despite its overwhelming popularity and ubiquitous advertising placement, Hulu is a money-losing service.
A question of balance
Thereupon, the company is purportedly looking at ways to expand and monetize the viewing of its content on computers, mobile devices (such as the iPad) and television screens. Although many users, such as myself, already view Hulu on a TV, Hulu doesn’t have a way of profiting from this “unofficial” viewing.
“It’s a tricky balancing act that we’re trying to fine-tune before we go out,†says one source. “Everyone’s concerned about making a strong offering at a good price, and not undercutting the existing business.â€
So, whereas the networks are already making money in the mobile space via Verizon’s V Cast, Hulu must tread carefully in how they go about monetizing the build out of the service. Of course, Apple has its own well-buttered bread to look after in the form of iTunes.
That said, don’t look for Hulu on the iPad, etc. when the device launches at the end of March. But, when it does, it’s more than likely we’ll be paying for it…
What’s your take?
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