It’s no secret that product placement in movies and TV shows has become an art form. From cars to coffee cups, brands pay top dollar to have their products featured prominently in content that millions of people consume daily. But recently, I’ve noticed something peculiar: the absence of Apple iPhones in shows and movies on streaming platforms like Netflix, Peacock, and others. At first, I thought it was a coincidence, but the more I watched, the more it seemed like a deliberate choice. And then it hit me—could this be a subtle dig at Apple, especially as Apple TV+ gains traction in the streaming wars?
Let’s break it down. Apple has always been protective of its brand image. In the past, villains in movies were rarely seen using Apple products because the company reportedly didn’t want their devices associated with negative characters. But now, it seems the tables have turned. Instead of Apple products being reserved for the “good guys,” they’re just… missing. Characters are often seen using generic smartphones or devices from other brands. It’s almost as if Netflix and Peacock are saying, “Oh, you have your own streaming platform now? Cool, we’ll just pretend your products don’t exist.” The irony is palpable.
Of course, this could all be in my head. Maybe it’s just a coincidence, and I’m reading too much into it. But the pattern is hard to ignore. In a world where brands fight for screen time, the absence of one of the most recognizable products feels intentional. It’s like watching a cooking show where everyone avoids mentioning salt—it’s noticeable, and you can’t help but wonder why. Is this a passive-aggressive move by competing streaming platforms? Or is Apple deliberately keeping its products out of rival content to avoid giving them free advertising? Either way, it’s a fascinating dynamic to observe.
At the end of the day, this observation is more amusing than anything else. It’s a reminder of how deeply intertwined branding and media have become. Whether it’s a strategic move or just a quirky trend, the missing iPhones on Netflix and Peacock add an extra layer of intrigue to the streaming wars. And who knows? Maybe one day, we’ll see a show where characters openly debate the merits of Apple TV+ while holding Android phones. Until then, I’ll keep an eye out for those elusive iPhones—or the lack thereof.