More companies are jumping into the streaming war since Amazon and Netflix started offering the service in 2006 and 2007 in the US, respectively. Apple is a latecomer in the industry, launching the Apple TV+ on Nov. 2019. With several other big names planning to offer streaming service, Apple is investing big not only in its content but also in its backend by hiring key personalities.
The latest is the former key engineer of Netflix, Ruslan Meshenberg. He is now a part of the internet services team of the Cupertino tech giant, improving the platform used for streaming content of Apple TV+. Rumors claim that the former Netflix engineer would help the company overcome technical difficulties as it develops the streaming platform.
Additionally, Meshenberg is expected to help the company create a far reliable architecture as it grows. The former Netflix engineer has the skills and experience crucial for the Cupertino company to resolve technical difficulties. Meshenberg was in charge of the infrastructure of Netflix that ensures contents run reliably, reports The Wall Street Journal.
Twitter's former Vice President of engineering Michael Abbott is responsible for pirating Meshenberg, according to reports. Abbott was reportedly given more responsibility for the Internet operation of the Cupertino tech giant.
Earlier this year, Apple hired Michael Pleper, the former top boss of HBO, to help Apple TV+ produce exclusive documentaries, TV series, and films. Pleper served HBO for 25 years and signed a five-year contract with the Cupertino tech giant. The former HBO boss is known for his contribution in making the HBO the company that it is today.
In Nov. last year, Apple hired National Geographic's former director of podcasts, Emily Ochsenschlager. The move reportedly was part of the company's plan to produce original podcast content linked to programs on Apple TV+. It underlines Apple's desire to offer more variety and highlights growing aspirations in the entertainment industry.
According to Bloomberg, Apple sent requests for pitches and asked producers to pitch ideas for audio programs. Later, the Cupertino giant started discussions with its original producers about creating podcasts. Bloomberg's sources, however, asked to remain anonymous since the plans are not yet final.
The Cupertino company is enjoying its impressive and record-breaking Q1 2020 fiscal. Based on its report, Apple's Services segment generated nearly $13 billion in revenue. So far, Apple TV+ is free for most of its customers. But, it would begin generating a significant amount of revenue by the end of the year.
