Apple’s news subscription service a mixed bag for publishers

NEW YORK – Apple is launching what some have called a “Netflix for news” — a $10-a-month subscription service that offers access to hundreds of magazines and a handful of newspapers.

But most major U.S. news publishers aren’t participating.

Readers get access to articles from over 300 magazines, a smattering of digital sites and some newspapers. Human editors will select stories for the app, and Apple says it will protect peoples’ privacy.

Many big-name magazines are on board, hoping Apple brings them new paid readers.

But Apple’s large cut of revenue — reportedly a 50-50 split — and the loss of a direct relationship with readers may not be appealing to many media companies, especially those that are successfully expanding their own digital readership.