Lionel Messi’s Debut Triggers Surge in Subscribers for Apple

Key Takeaways:

In an exciting development for both sports enthusiasts and streaming content aficionados, Apple has witnessed a remarkable uptick in subscribers to its streaming services, Apple TV+ and MLS Season Pass. This boost is attributed to the much-anticipated debut of international soccer icon Lionel Messi.

🔸 Leo Messi has brought $265 million in ticket sales since coming to MLS.

🔹 Apple TV has gained 300,000 new subscribers, making a profit of $29.7 million.

[via Boardroom] pic.twitter.com/vkRme2Fky7

— Leo Messi 🔟 Fan Club (@WeAreMessi) August 30, 2023

Surge in Subscribers

As reported by The Wall Street Journal, Apple experienced a surge of over 110,000 new sign-ups in the U.S. on July 21, a notable increase from the previous day’s count of 6,143. This subscriber boost can be directly correlated to Lionel Messi’s debut, which resonated significantly with audiences.

Positive Impact on Apple TV+

The month of July stands out as the most robust period for U.S. subscribers of Apple TV+ throughout 2023, as highlighted by subscription analytics company Antenna. Apple TV+ offers a rich variety of shows and movies, including popular titles like “For All Mankind,” “Severance,” and “CODA.” The subscription is available for $6.99 per month, providing engaging content for viewers.

Apple’s Landmark Deal with MLS

Apple’s strategic approach to content expansion encompasses partnerships with influential organizations. Notably, in June, Apple inked a groundbreaking 10-year agreement with Major League Soccer (MLS) to broadcast media rights via its Apple TV+ streaming service.

Selena Gomez watched Messi and knew there was more to life than Apple Music and Grammys pic.twitter.com/F2neUmwACP

— THE CHEF🧑🏽‍🍳 (@_Jeddd_) September 4, 2023

Diverse Pricing Tiers

The MLS Season Pass, available through Apple TV+, presents an intriguing pricing structure. For subscribers of Apple TV+, the cost is $12.99 per month or $25 per season. For those without an existing Apple TV+ subscription, the pricing adjusts to $14.99 per month or $29 per season, providing flexibility to a wide audience.

CEO Tim Cook’s Insights

Apple’s CEO, Tim Cook, acknowledged the positive impact of Lionel Messi’s involvement and the MLS partnership on Apple TV+. Speaking during a recent earnings call, Cook underscored the significance of original content, with sport being a pivotal narrative element. He emphasized the thriving partnership with MLS, exceeding expectations in terms of subscribers. The buzz generated by Messi’s transition to Inter Miami further bolstered the platform’s growth trajectory.

With a compelling blend of sports and original content, Apple’s streaming services continue to resonate with a diverse audience, setting the stage for an engaging digital entertainment experience.