Apple TV+: Your Guide to Shows, Features & Cost
When you think of Apple TV+, your mind probably goes to its star-studded original shows. While series like Slow Horses and Foundation are the heart of the service, the platform has expanded far beyond its initial offerings. It has become a serious destination for live sports, offering every single MLS match and "Friday Night Baseball" to subscribers. It’s also quietly adding a curated selection of licensed movies to round out its library. This evolution makes Apple TV+ a much more versatile entertainment hub than you might realize. We’ll cover the full breadth of its content, from award-winning dramas to live games.
Is Apple TV+ The Next Big Thing?
One of the big announcements that came with the iPhone 11 series was the reveal of Apple TV+. This video streaming subscription will give you access to a growing library of movies, shows, and other content. Many questions came with this announcement as well. How much will this cost? What devices can I stream on? How is this any different or better than Netflix, Hulu, HBO, or Prime Video?
What to Watch on Apple TV+
When Apple TV+ first launched, its library felt a bit sparse, focusing on a handful of high-budget original productions. While those initial shows were impressive, the question on everyone's mind was whether there would be enough content to justify another subscription. Fast forward to today, and the service has blossomed into a formidable contender in the streaming wars. The library has expanded significantly, offering a diverse mix of award-winning original series and films, live sports, and a growing collection of licensed content. It’s no longer just about one or two hit shows; it’s about building a well-rounded catalog that appeals to a wide range of viewers.
Whether you're a fan of gripping dramas, laugh-out-loud comedies, mind-bending science fiction, or live sports, Apple TV+ now has something to catch your interest. The platform has made a clear statement by investing in quality over quantity, and that approach is paying off with critical acclaim and major awards. This focus on premium, exclusive content is what sets it apart. Instead of endlessly scrolling through filler content, you’re more likely to find your next favorite show. Let's look at exactly what you can expect to find when you explore the service.
Award-Winning Original Shows and Movies
The heart of Apple TV+ is its original content. The service has become a hub for critically acclaimed shows that generate a lot of buzz. You’ve likely heard of the feel-good comedy *Ted Lasso* or the intense workplace thriller *Severance*. Beyond those hits, you’ll find a deep bench of quality series like the sci-fi epic *Foundation*, the dystopian mystery *Silo*, and the sharp-witted spy drama *Slow Horses*. On the film side, Apple has also made a significant impact, producing compelling movies like *Greyhound* and *Tetris*. The consistent quality across its originals means you can press play on a new Apple TV+ title with a good degree of confidence.
The First Streamer to Win Best Picture
Apple TV+ made history in 2022 when its original film, *CODA*, won the Academy Award for Best Picture. This was a landmark achievement, making it the first streaming service to take home the industry's most prestigious award. This win solidified Apple's reputation as a serious player in Hollywood, proving that its original productions can compete with—and beat—traditional studio films. It was a clear signal that the platform isn't just another content library; it's a home for powerful, award-winning storytelling that you won't want to miss.
Expansion into Live Sports
Recognizing that entertainment isn't limited to scripted shows and movies, Apple TV+ has expanded its offerings to include live sports. This is a game-changer for cord-cutters and sports fans looking for a modern way to watch their favorite teams. The service now includes "Friday Night Baseball," giving subscribers access to select Major League Baseball games each week. Even more significantly, Apple secured a major partnership with Major League Soccer (MLS) to stream every single match through the MLS Season Pass. This move into live sports broadens the platform's appeal and provides a ton of value for sports enthusiasts.
Growing Library of Licensed Content
While Apple TV+ built its brand on original content, it has wisely started to supplement its library with licensed movies and TV shows. Initially, the service was strictly for Apple Originals, which made it feel different but also limited compared to competitors with vast back-catalogs. Now, you’ll find a curated selection of older, familiar titles available to stream. This hybrid approach makes the service more robust, giving you more options for movie night. It strikes a nice balance, ensuring you can enjoy exclusive new releases while also having access to some classic favorites, making the subscription feel more complete.
Key Features of the Service
Beyond the content itself, the user experience is a huge part of what makes a streaming service worth your time and money. Apple TV+ gets a lot of things right in this department, with a clean interface and several features designed for convenience and quality. The entire service is built around a premium viewing experience, from the moment you press play to how you share your account with others. There are no confusing tiers or hidden fees for better features; everyone gets the same high-quality experience. These thoughtful details make a real difference in how you enjoy your shows and movies, whether you're watching at home or on the go.
Three key features stand out: commercial-free viewing on all content, the ability to download shows for offline access, and a generous family sharing plan. Each of these adds significant value to the subscription. The absence of ads means your movie nights and binge-watching sessions are never interrupted. Offline downloads give you the freedom to watch anywhere, and family sharing makes the service incredibly cost-effective for households. Together, these features create a seamless and user-friendly platform that competes with the best in the business.
Commercial-Free Viewing
One of the most refreshing aspects of Apple TV+ is that every single show and movie is completely commercial-free. In an era where many other streaming services are introducing cheaper, ad-supported tiers or inserting ads into their existing plans, Apple has held firm on providing an uninterrupted experience for all subscribers. This means you can get fully immersed in a tense drama or a gripping film without being pulled out of the moment by a commercial break. It’s a simple but powerful feature that respects your time and attention, making the entire viewing experience feel more premium and enjoyable.
Offline Downloads for On-the-Go Watching
For anyone who travels, commutes, or has unreliable internet, the offline download feature is essential. Apple TV+ allows you to download your favorite shows and movies directly to your Apple devices, so you can watch them anytime, anywhere, without needing a connection. This is perfect for keeping yourself entertained on a long flight, catching up on a series during your train ride to work, or keeping the kids occupied on a family road trip. You no longer have to worry about finding Wi-Fi or burning through your mobile data just to stream. It gives you the freedom to take your entertainment with you.
Keeping Your Devices Charged for Offline Viewing
Watching downloaded shows is perfect for flights or road trips, but it can drain your battery. Keeping a reliable power source, like a KEUTEK fast-charging portable power bank or car charger, ensures your device is always ready for your next episode, no matter where you are.
Family Sharing for Up to Six People
Apple TV+ offers incredible value for families with its generous sharing policy. A single subscription can be shared with up to five other family members through Apple’s Family Sharing feature, at no extra cost. This means up to six people can enjoy the service simultaneously, each with their own personal account and recommendations. Unlike other services that charge extra for more screens or profiles, this is included in the standard price. It’s an easy and affordable way for everyone in the household to access the full library of content on their own devices, making it a great option for prepared families.
Supported Devices
Apple TV+ is currently supported on most iOS devices including iPhone, Macbook, iPad, iPod Touch, and Apple TV. These are all pretty standard options for Apple, as they tend to be pretty exclusive with their products such as lightning chargers and the Mac operating systems. The Apple TV+ will be a little different though. The app will be available through several other devices including Roku, Amazon Fire TV and Fire Stick, as well as certain models of Samsung televisions. There are also some LG and Vizio TVs that are AirPlay enabled right out of the box. The one catch with this is that an Apple device must be supported by the newest iOS operating systems, meaning that some older devices will not be able to play Apple TV+.
Gaming Consoles and Smart TVs
Beyond Apple's own hardware, the service extends its reach right into your living room's entertainment hub. If you're a gamer, you'll be happy to know the Apple TV+ app is available on major gaming consoles, including PlayStation and Xbox. This makes it incredibly simple to switch from a gaming session to watching a movie on the same device. Additionally, the app is widely supported on Smart TVs from leading brands like Samsung, LG, and Sony. This broad compatibility means you likely already own a device that can stream Apple TV+ content, making it easy to give the service a try without investing in a new gadget.
Streaming Devices and Web Browsers
The flexibility doesn't stop with TVs and consoles. Apple TV+ is also accessible on some of the most popular streaming devices out there, including Roku, Amazon Fire TV, and Google TV. But perhaps the most convenient option is the ability to watch from nearly any computer. By simply visiting tv.apple.com in a web browser, you can stream the entire library on your laptop or desktop. This is perfect for catching up on shows while traveling or during a break, but streaming video can drain your battery quickly. To make sure you’re never cut off mid-episode, it’s smart to have a reliable power source nearby. Using a durable, fast-charging cable ensures your laptop or tablet stays powered for the entire binge-watch.
What is The Cost?
The listed cost for Apple TV+ is $4.99 per month, after a 7-day free trial. This is not very expensive, but you could potentially get it for free as well. Currently Apple is running a promotion where if you purchase any new or refurbished piece of Apple hardware, you get a year of free Apple TV+. This is great timing with the release of the new iPhone 11 series. Many people have already upgraded to the new iPhone, so they already have a free subscription. This free year of subscription also includes the family sharing plan for up to 5 users. The service is also free if you have a Apple Music Student Plan Subscription, although the student plan does not not include the family sharing access. These are listed as limited time offers so get yours now before they are gone.
Monthly Subscription Price
While Apple TV+ launched with a lower introductory price, the cost has since been updated to reflect its growing library of high-quality content. After the initial free trial period ends, a monthly subscription to Apple TV+ now costs $9.99. This single subscription gives you and your family ad-free access to all Apple Originals, from gripping dramas to laugh-out-loud comedies. Compared to other streaming giants, this price point remains competitive, especially considering the platform’s commitment to star-studded, big-budget productions and its recent expansion into live sports. It’s a straightforward plan with no hidden tiers or fees for higher-quality streaming.
Free Trial for New Apple Device Owners
One of the best perks for those in the Apple ecosystem is the generous trial offer. If you purchase a new Apple device, such as an iPhone, iPad, or Mac, you’re eligible to receive Apple TV+ free for three months. This gives you plenty of time to explore the entire catalog and find your next favorite show. When you're setting up your new device, make sure you have the right accessories to get the most out of it. A durable, fast-charging cable is essential for keeping your new iPhone powered up, so you can stream your free content without interruption, whether you're at home or on the go.
Bundling with Apple One
If you already use other Apple services like Apple Music, iCloud+, or Apple Arcade, bundling them might be your most cost-effective option. Apple TV+ is included in all Apple One plans. This subscription consolidates several services into one simple monthly payment, often at a lower price than paying for each one individually. You can choose from different plans, such as the Individual plan for yourself or the Family plan, which lets you share all the included services with up to five other people. It’s a great way to streamline your subscriptions and save a little money each month.
Why Is Apple Doing This?
There are several reasons that Apple has for getting involved with streaming services. For starters, streaming services are profitable for many other companies, so Apple wants to get a piece of the pie. Second, Apple already has a loyal fan base and plenty of people who already pay for different services that they offer. These include Apple Music, iTunes, Podcasts and App Store to name a few. By including it as free with some of these other subscriptions, they can increase the appeal of the services as well as the perceived value. In addition, getting exposure to a new service is crucial to the success of it. This is getting them exposure, which gets people talking. You are probably much more likely to subscribe if your friends are telling you how much they are enjoying the shows on it.
It is too early to tell how successful this service will be, but Apple has a good track record with most of their other launches. They are also running a large number of advertisements to help promote the new service. The commercials that you have seen for the new movie "See" with Jason Momoa: you can only watch it on Apple TV+. So get your free trial soon and see what you think of the service.
Launch and Subscriber Growth
Apple TV+ officially entered the streaming scene on November 1, 2019, with a clear focus on exclusive, high-quality content known as "Apple Originals." Instead of licensing a massive back-catalog of old shows, Apple chose to build its library from the ground up. This strategy, combined with promotions like offering free trials with new device purchases, has paid off. The service has steadily grown its audience, establishing itself as a significant competitor in the crowded streaming market. With an estimated 45 million paid subscribers, Apple has proven that a curated collection of premium shows and movies can attract a loyal following, turning casual viewers into dedicated fans.
Investing in A-List Talent and Big-Budget Films
Apple's game plan is clear: attract subscribers with star power and cinematic quality. The company has invested billions to sign deals with some of the biggest names in Hollywood, including Oprah Winfrey, Steven Spielberg, Jennifer Aniston, and Martin Scorsese. This commitment to A-list talent ensures their projects generate buzz and meet high expectations. Apple isn't afraid to spend big on individual films either, paying a reported $70 million for the rights to *Greyhound* and a staggering $105 million for *Emancipation*. This heavy investment in top-tier creators and blockbuster-level films signals that Apple TV+ is competing not just with other streamers, but with major film studios for prestige content.
A Strategy of Theatrical Releases
In a fascinating move, Apple has begun releasing some of its most anticipated films in theaters before they land on the streaming platform. Major productions like *Killers of the Flower Moon* and *Napoleon* enjoyed exclusive theatrical runs, building critical acclaim and word-of-mouth excitement. While the ultimate goal is still to persuade audiences to subscribe to Apple TV+, this strategy serves multiple purposes. It positions Apple as a serious film studio, makes its movies eligible for major awards, and creates a sense of cultural importance around its releases. By the time these films are available to stream at home, they feel like major events that you don't want to miss.
Frequently Asked Questions
What really sets Apple TV+ apart from other streaming services? The biggest difference is its focus on quality over quantity. Instead of a massive library with lots of filler, Apple invests heavily in a curated selection of high-budget, original shows and films with major star power. Every subscription is also completely ad-free, so you can watch without interruptions. Plus, the included Family Sharing plan is a huge perk, letting up to six people use one account.
Do I need an Apple device to watch Apple TV+? Not at all. While it works seamlessly on iPhones, iPads, and Macs, the service is widely available on other devices. You can download the Apple TV+ app on most smart TVs, Roku and Amazon Fire TV devices, and even on PlayStation and Xbox consoles. You can also just stream directly from a web browser on your computer.
Is the content library limited to just Apple's own shows? While Apple TV+ built its reputation on exclusive originals like Ted Lasso and the Oscar-winning film CODA, it has expanded its offerings quite a bit. The service now includes live sports, featuring "Friday Night Baseball" and every single MLS soccer match. It has also started adding a selection of licensed movies, so you can find some familiar favorites alongside the new, exclusive content.
Can my family and I watch on different devices at the same time? Yes, and this is one of the service's best features. A single Apple TV+ subscription includes Family Sharing, which allows you to add up to five other family members. Everyone gets their own personal profile and can watch on their own device simultaneously, all for the standard monthly price.
Are there ways to get Apple TV+ for free or at a discount? There are a couple of great options. If you buy a new iPhone, iPad, or Mac, you’ll get a free three-month trial of the service. For a longer-term discount, you can bundle it with other services you might already use, like Apple Music and iCloud+, through an Apple One subscription, which often works out to be more affordable than paying for each service separately.
Key Takeaways
- Go Beyond the Original Hits: Apple TV+ has evolved into a complete entertainment platform, offering live sports like MLS Season Pass, a growing collection of licensed movies, and its slate of award-winning original shows and films.
- Enjoy a Premium Experience, Standard: Every subscription comes with high-end features at no extra cost. This includes completely ad-free viewing, offline downloads for watching on the go, and a family sharing plan for up to six people.
- Find the Smartest Way to Subscribe: Before paying the monthly price, check for more cost-effective options. You can get three months free with a new Apple device purchase or save money by bundling the service with an Apple One plan.
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