In the lead-up to Apple's annual event today, speculation is growing that the company will announce a deal with Netflix to stream movies to consumers through its new and cheaper version of the Apple TV set-top box.
At the same time, according to various reports, Apple is negotiating deals with the major broadcast television networks to offer programming for rent (99 cents to rent an episode for 48 hours) through its iTunes service. Current users can buy episodes from Apple for $1.99.
"Video is an area where they need to strengthen their position," Shaw Wu, an analyst at Kaufman Bros., told Bloomberg News.
The new Apple TV is expected to be sold at $99 compared to the previous $229 price point.
Not to be outdone, according to other reports, Amazon has approached media companies to start its own Netflix-like online service that would charge consumers a monthly fee to download older movies and shows to internet-connected televisions, video game consoles and blu-ray players.
According to a Wall Street Journal report, Amazon would look to have the service ready for the upcoming holiday season.
Discussion Questions: Where do you see the video download business heading? Do any of the current players in the business, including Hulu and Google, have an advantage that you can see?