CNN has quietly withdrawn its content from Apple News, abruptly halting a distribution partnership that had delivered millions of readers to the network’s stories every month. The removal, which took place over the weekend, comes as the cable news network and Apple remain locked in negotiations over a new agreement that would restore CNN’s presence on the platform.
Although the blackout is described as temporary, the move reflects a tougher stance from CNN as it pushes to increase revenue from its digital operations. Apple News has become a vital traffic source for publishers, especially as major social media platforms continue to scale back their engagement with news content. The app not only drives significant readership but also generates millions in annual revenue through Apple News+, a $10 monthly subscription service shared with participating publishers. Major outlets such as People and Condé Nast have embraced the platform fully, producing customised content specifically for Apple’s audience.
Still, many media organisations remain cautious about relying heavily on tech companies for distribution, mindful of past experiences with platforms like Facebook. During the peak of the “Facebook news era,” several digital publishers invested heavily in a system that ultimately abandoned them, leaving businesses scrambling to recover lost audience reach and revenue.
CNN’s decision fits into a larger strategic shift. Earlier this month, the network launched its own paid subscription service and placed more stories behind a paywall as part of efforts to grow direct-to-consumer revenue. The company appears confident it can either secure more favourable terms from Apple or prove that it no longer needs the platform’s traffic to succeed. With negotiations ongoing, it remains unclear whether Apple or CNN will be the first to compromise, and how long the standoff will last.
