What is the QC (quality control) process for TV content?

• For library content, there are two stages of QC (quality control) that together take roughly two weeks. During this time, we review a sample of the encoded files for errors. Since we don't review every single file, it's important that your internal team or encoding house thoroughly checks all content for errors before delivery. We also check for errors in the metadata and a 30-second preview from each episode.

  If we find one or more issues in one of the reviewed files, we assume that it is the case for all videos within the playlist.

• For currently-airing episodes, QC often takes place after episodes are already available on the iTunes Store. This makes it especially important that your internal team or encoding house thoroughly checks all content for errors before delivery.

  If we find a QC issue during our review, we may remove the content from the iTunes Store. After you’ve resolved the issues, you can redeliver your assets.

How long does it take for a new provider to offer TV content on the iTunes Store?

The initial provider qualification requires at least five weeks of preparation and testing. It’s typically faster when you use an Apple-approved encoding house. 

How long does it take to offer library content on the iTunes Store?

There are a few different requirements to consider:

• Library seasons must be set up on iTunes Connect three Fridays before your sales start date.
• Library episodes are due two Mondays before your sales start date. This deadline isn't affected by the deadline for library seasons.
• Special pricing must be submitted to your iTunes Business Representative by the Monday before your sales start date.

How long does it take to offer currently-airing content on the iTunes Store?

Keep in mind the following requirements:

• Currently-airing seasons must be set up on iTunes Connect three Fridays before your sales start date.
• Currently-airing episodes are due by noon (local time) on the day-of-air.
• Special Pricing must be submitted to your iTunes Business Representative by the Monday before your sales start date.

How long does it take for content to go live on the iTunes Store?

After the sales start date has been reached and the QC (quality control) team has approved your content, it can take up to 24 hours for the content to appear in search results on the iTunes Store.

Can an episode be delivered before a season is created?

No. Episodes are assembled together and presented on the iTunes Store as a season. To associate an episode with a season, the episodes metadata must include the seasons “Container ID”. Without a season, an episode cannot be delivered.