Report: Apple, Wal-Mart in talks over movie alliance

Apple is currently in discussions with Wal-Mart over an alliance that would allow the retail giant to profit from iTunes Store video downloads, according to a report by Variety. “A deal could take the form of a digital download ‘coupon’ that would allow consumers to buy movies, TV shows or music on iTunes with Apple paying the retail giant a percentage of the proceeds,” the industry magazine reports. “What’s in it for Apple? Since studios (except for Disney, of course) have so far turned a cold shoulder to iTunes because of Wal-Mart’s demands, the computer giant would then gain access to titles from every major.” Wal-Mart, which accounts for 40% of all U.S. DVD sales, reportedly warned Hollywood studios earlier this year that there would be consequences if they signed deals with Apple.