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Apple reportedly in talks to acquire Tidal, but why?

By Kenny Yeo - on 1 Jul 2016, 11:03am

Apple reportedly in talks to acquire Tidal, but why?

(Image source: Tidal)

According to reports, Apple is reportedly in talks with Tidal over a possible acquisition deal.

Tidal is owned by superstar rapper Jay-Z along with his partners, which include other music megastars like his wife Beyonce, Kanye West, Christ Martin of Coldplay and many more.

Now, you might be wondering what does Apple plan to do with Tidal?

Well, Apple is said to be keen in the unique relationships it has with some of the world's biggest stars. Tidal recently score exclusive streaming rights to Beyonce's Lemonade and Kanye West's The Life of Pablo.

While both albums did eventually come to Apple Music, they debuted on Tidal first.

Apple is keen to change that because they see having exclusive streaming rights as a big differentiator in the music streaming business.

Earlier this week, Apple Music executive Jimmy Iovine said that while Kanye initially planned to release The Life of Pablo on Apple Music first, he pulled out at the last minute and decided to release it on Tidal first because of his close relationship with Jay-Z.

A deal with Tidal would therefore strengthen Apple's relationship with some of music's biggest stars and allow them to score further exclusives down the road.

That said, talks between Apple and Tidal are reportedly in the very early stages and a deal may not materialize. 

When quizzed about it, a Tidal spokesperson denied that the company is in talks with Apple.

Source: 9to5 Mac

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