Apple tried to buy rap-battle site Verzuz before Triller deal

Apple Inc. aimed to purchase the livestreaming music platform Verzuz before the business was acquired in March by the video network Triller, suggesting the technology giant still wants to develop a social music offering.

The Cupertino, California-based company showed interest in acquiring Verzuz, and while the iPhone maker didn’t engage in a bidding war, it did provide a price for Verzuz that ended up being lower than what Triller paid, according to people with knowledge of the matter who asked not to be identified because the discussions were private.

Created by rappers Swizz Beatz and Timbaland — and backed by dozens of other popular artists — Verzuz lets users livestream rap battles and other musical showdowns.