Apple and Samsung are putting iTunes, AirPlay on newer Samsung smart TVs

Apple and Samsung are bringing iTunes to Samsung TVs — (Image credit: Samsung Electronics Co.)

On Sunday, Apple and Samsung announced a surprising new deal that will put iTunes on later-model Samsung smart TVs and allow people with iPhones and iPads to use Apple's AirPlay 2 technology to display their device's content on the Samsung TVs. Apple and Samsung have had a contentious, complicated relationship as smartphone rivals and collaborators — last June, the companies settled years of Apple complaints that Samsung had stolen its designs for its smartphones, but during the litigation, Apple was also buying screens and other components from Samsung.

The deal was also seen as a strategic shift for Apple from focusing on hardware to emphasizing its growing services business, though it also raises questions, including how Samsung and Apple will resolve their differing views on customer privacy and about Apple's plans for its Apple TV box.

Apple internet software and services chief Eddy Cue described the deal as a way to give Apple customers "yet another way to enjoy all their favorite content on the biggest screen in their home." Samsung's Won-Jin Lee similarly described the partnership as "ideal" for both Samsung TV owners and Apple customers. Samsung said iTunes will be available on 2019 smart TV models starting in the spring and "support on 2018 Samsung smart TVs will be made available via firmware update." It did not list which models will get the update.

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Peter has worked as a news and culture writer and editor at The Week since the site's launch in 2008. He covers politics, world affairs, religion and cultural currents. His journalism career began as a copy editor at a financial newswire and has included editorial positions at The New York Times Magazine, Facts on File, and Oregon State University.