Rumors regarding streaming services exploded ahead of the July 4th fireworks this week. Samsung confirmed reports that it has acquired video streaming service Boxee, with a rep saying it will "help us continue to improve the overall user experience across our connected devices."  Israeli business news site The Marker broke the news Wed, pegging the deal at $30 million. Headquartered in NYC, Boxee also has staff in Israel. In fact, CEO/founder Avner Ronen served for 4.5 years in the Israeli Defense Force before he joined telecom software firm Comverse. Recently, Boxee was reportedly looking for a buyer after unsuccessful attempt to recruit investors.

 
According to The Marker, Boxee’s 40 employees will join Samsung following the acquisition. Boxee managed to raise close to $26.5 million in 3 rounds of funding from Spark Capital, Union Square Ventures, General Catalyst Partners, Pitango Venture Capital, and Softbank NY.
 
Boxee launched its signature product Boxee TV last year. The device boasts of a “No Limits” DVR that allows users to upload recordings to the cloud. The service has rolled out to major cities like NYC, LA and DC. It runs $14.99 per month and includes playback on any device with browser. Boxee TV retails for $99. Boxee’s latest offering is its cloud DVR. Rebranded from Boxee TV, the service allows streaming of over-the-air broadcast HD channels.
 

Meanwhile, Apple and Time Warner Cable are reportedly nearing a deal to allow the MSO’s subscribers to access content via Apple TV. According to Bloomberg, the companies might announce an agreement within a few months. Apple is also reportedly tapping Hulu exec Pete Distad to help negotiate with cable companies. Time Warner Cable has been relatively streaming-friendly: It reached deals with Roku and Microsoft to make programming available through the streaming device and the Xbox gaming console. Time Warner Cable would only say that it doesn’t have an agreement with Apple at this time.

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