At the DLD Conference in Munich two days ago, News Corp. exec James Murdoch announced he hoped The Daily’s release would fall “in the next few weeks.” Turns out that was a conservative estimate, and the long-awaited exclusive iPad publication will launch February 2.
An invite from News Corp from chairman and CEO Rupert Murdoch was sent to members of the press today revealing the date. It also looks like Apple’s VP of Internet services, Eddy Cue, will be there to represent his company, and will most likely introduce Apple’s subscription service.
Originally, it was widely reported that The Daily would be unveiled on January 19. The date (and at that point, the publication) was never confirmed by News Corp. or Apple, and it quickly came and went. There was speculation Steve Jobs’ leave of absence caused the continuously pushed back date, and the AP reported Apple’s CEO was originally slated to present on February 2, but for medical reasons will not attend.
We’re uncertain how successful The Daily will be with iPad users. News Corp. has poured a considerable amount of money, time, and personnel into the project, but to us it seems like Apple debuting a subscription service for other publications is what’s most significant about February 2.
