Apple TV+ has inked a significant agreement with the French government to invest more in developing European and French audio and video content. This move signals a major strategic shift by the streaming giant into native-language productions, reinforcing its commitment to cultural diversity and regulatory compliance.
Under the four-year deal, Apple TV+ will allocate funds to produce and distribute audiovisual content not only in France but across the European Union. Notably, 70 percent of the revenue generated through this agreement will be dedicated to independent productions, fostering a vibrant and diverse media landscape.
Several French audiovisual groups, including AnimFrance, SATEV, SEDPA, SPI, USPA, and SACD, have come together to commend Apple’s commitment. They view this partnership as a testament to Apple TV+’s ambition to integrate more deeply into the French regulatory framework while supporting the growth of French and European original content.
These groups’ statement highlights a shared vision: a strategy that emphasizes diversity, renewal, and the global influence of French audiovisual creation. This partnership is part of a broader trend, with platforms like Netflix and Amazon already signing similar agreements with various European countries.
Promoting Non-English Productions in Europe
The deal underscores Apple TV+’s desire to produce more content in native languages, catering to a wider audience both within and beyond France. Given that French is spoken in multiple countries such as Belgium, Canada, Haiti, Madagascar, Switzerland, and numerous African nations, diversifying content can open up new markets and ensure broader accessibility.
Government Mandates and Their Impact
In 2021, the French government mandated that foreign streaming services like Apple TV+ must contribute a portion of their revenue to local content creation. This agreement aligns with those regulations, ensuring that Apple TV+ meets its obligations while positioning itself as a supportive stakeholder in the European media ecosystem.
“La Maison,” a French-language Apple TV+ production. Image: Apple TV+
In addition to French government regulations, Apple TV+ also adheres to a 2018 European Union directive that requires 30 percent of content on any streaming or Video-On-Demand (VOD) service in the EU to be produced within the region. This deal strengthens Apple TV+’s position in meeting those EU guidelines.
The success of this partnership could serve as a model for other European countries, potentially encouraging more investments in non-English productions by various streaming services. This trend supports the EU’s broader objective of promoting cultural diversity and bolstering local audiovisual industries.
Future Outlook
As Apple TV+ continues to expand its European production capabilities, audiences can expect a richer array of culturally diverse content. This investment not only benefits Apple TV+ but also contributes to the growth and sustainability of the European media landscape. By supporting independent producers and local talent, Apple TV+ is paving the way for a more inclusive and dynamic entertainment industry.
The deal represents a significant milestone for Apple TV+, enhancing its presence in France and setting the stage for further collaborations with European content creators and distributors. As the streaming landscape evolves, this strategic partnership is expected to yield numerous innovative and high-quality productions.
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