Apple Spars With Movie Studios Over Pricing Ahead of Apple TV Rollout

Apple is scrambling to strike deals with Hollywood studios to offer ultrahigh-definition films on its new Apple TV, but discussions have been hampered by disagreements over pricing, apparently. The tech giant will unveil the new version of its streaming media device at an event Sept. 12 and tout its compatibility with new 4K televisions, people with knowledge of its plans said. The 4K format offers more than 8 million pixels per frame—significantly sharper than traditional high-definition video at the same size. Apple will also reveal updates to its iPhone and Apple Watch, according to people briefed on its plans. Apple wants to have major Hollywood films available in ultrahigh definition on the new device, expected to go on sale later this year. However, it wants to charge $19.99 for those movies—on par with what it sometimes charges for new HD movies, the people with knowledge of the discussions said. Several Hollywood studios want to charge $5 to $10 more for 4K movies, apparently.