By Temitope Ojo

Television personality, Oprah Winfrey has agreed to produce shows for
Apple as the iPhone maker prepares to make a push into original
content.

An Apple statement at the weekend offered few details about the role
for Winfrey, who hosted a hugely popular talk show before leaving to
start her own production company and devote time to philanthropic
efforts.

“Together, Winfrey and Apple will create original programs that
embrace her incomparable ability to connect with audiences around the
world,” the statement said.
Though terms of the deal were not announced, news suggested Apple,
which reportedly is investing $1 billion in content, is pushing
forward as part of its effort to create a platform to challenge rivals
like Netflix and Amazon in Internet-based video.

According to reports, the deal includes films, television shows,
smartphone applications and books that can be distributed through
Apple.

Apple has deals with other stars including director Steven Spielberg,
and actresses Jennifer Aniston and Reese Witherspoon.

The move comes after Netflix signed a deal with former US president
Barack Obama and his wife Michelle to produce shows for that platform.

It also comes as traditional TV operators scramble to bolster their
position against an expected online onslaught