Casting Call for Apple – Producing Original TV Show ‘Planet of the Apps’
Are you an iOS developer who thinks they’re working on the next Snapchat or Pokemon GO? Then we’ve got some great news for you.
Apple is casting for a reality television show called ‘Planet of the Apps’ and they’re on the hunt for people just like you to feature on the show. Rumors have been circulating for a while and recently confirmed, but now we’re getting a new wave of information.
From the website:
The Show
App creators: Join us on the search for the next great app in a new original series. Those selected will have the chance to receive hands-on guidance from some of the most influential experts in the tech community, featured placement on the App Store, and funding from top-tier VCs.
The Search
Online applications are being accepted now through Friday, August 26. To apply, you must agree to have an iOS, macOS, tvOS, or watchOS app in a beta or functional state by October 21, so you can show us what you’ve built.
The Shoot
The inaugural season will take place in Los Angeles and film over a non-consecutive period from late 2016 to early 2017. If you are not able to take off work during this period, please do not apply. For more information visit FAQ.
This could be a big break for some smaller, independent developers looking to make a name for themselves. While the concept sounds fascinating enough to tune in to see what it’s about, more interesting is the fact that Apple is jumping into its own television streaming.
Apple TV has been a mainstay in the set top devices circuit for a while now, but interestingly has been sluggish when it comes to creating a streaming television service (despite a few failed attempts, no real progress has been made).
For a company that could probably buy Netflix with straight cash (ok this might not be factually accurate), it does seem surprising that Apple has struggled with TV a bit. Regardless, this ‘Planet of the Apps’ venture seems like a relatively small bet for a company of Apple’s size. Where’s the ‘House of Cards’ moment?