Apple toying with subscription TV

We keep hearing Apple wants to add a subscriber model to its iTunes walled garden with the video content as its main feature. Apparently, network TV suits aren’t buying the idea. With an open internet to peddle shows  on as well as free to air, what do the networks need with what amounts to a cable operator delivering content via the very same Internet? If Apple can conjure up yet another cute device like the iPhone, the idea could be viable. Having said that, I have to wonder how long the most devoted Apple fanboys  will accept being limited to the iTunes ghetto for their content.

Apple is courting owners of US television networks, including CBS and Walt Disney, in the hope of launching a subscription television service over the internet next year, people familiar with the discussions said.  (FT)

The service is expected to be offered over Apple’s iTunes digital entertainment store, which sells movies and TV shows, but does not offer them for a recurring monthly fee.