In “Apples and Oranges: Amazon moves into the Apple TV space” appears a very interesting phrase:

The unit will offer many of the same channels, or “apps” in the Amazon parlance. These include Netflix, Hulu Plus, WatchESPN, SHO Anytime, Bloomberg, and Vevo. Streaming music services including Pandora and iHeart Radio should follow soon after launch.

The idea of “apps” taking the role of channels, on an Internet-based platform, could completely upend the Comcast/TWC monopoly. In this model, every program (Big Bang Theory; Top Gear; etc.) could be an app. Alternatively, content aggregators (who used be called “broadcast networks”) could have one app through which content is delivered, a la Netflix and Amazon Prime.

Aggregators would probably face a diminished role as content creators can go direct to consumer via an app, or direct to Netflix if they see value in that relationship.  Exclusive contracts for content (mostly live sports) would seem to be the main points of differentiation.

The cable companies would revert to what most of us really want them to be – Internet Service Providers.  Not a very glamorous business, but vital, like a utility.

Very thought provoking.  And very disruptive.