Apple TV+ is a streaming service that costs $9.99 per month for one person, or $19.99 per month for a family plan that covers up to six people

Apple TV+ is owned and run by Apple. You watch it through an app on your phone, tablet, computer, or TV set. The service includes original shows and films made by Apple, plus licensed content from other studios. There is no free tier, and there are no ads — you pay the monthly fee and watch without interruption.

The individual plan lets one person stream on one device at a time. The family plan lets up to six people each have their own account, and up to four can stream at the same time on different devices. If you already pay for other Apple services — iCloud storage, Apple Music, Apple Arcade — you may be able to bundle them into Apple One, which can lower your total monthly cost depending on which services you choose.

Key Takeaways

  • Apple TV+ costs $9.99 per month for one person or $19.99 per month for up to six family members.
  • The service includes original shows and films but no live sports, news, or real-time programming.
  • You can bundle Apple TV+ with other Apple services through Apple One to reduce your total cost.
  • The app works on iPhones, iPads, Macs, Apple TVs, and many smart TVs, but not on all devices.
  • Apple TV+ does not offer a free trial for most new subscribers, though some promotions exist through device purchases or carrier partnerships.

What content is actually on Apple TV+

Apple TV+ focuses on original series and films. The service does not carry live sports, breaking news, or real-time events. Shows like Ted Lasso, Severance, The Morning Show, and Slow Horses are originals made by Apple. The service also licenses older films and shows from other studios, though the library is smaller than Netflix or Disney+.

New original content releases on a schedule set by Apple, not all at once. Some shows release one episode per week; others release multiple episodes on the same day. You can browse what is available before you subscribe to see if the current lineup interests you — Apple lists its shows and films on its website without requiring an account.

How to watch on your devices

Apple TV+ works on iPhones, iPads, Macs, and Apple TVs through the Apple TV app. On Android phones and tablets, you can download the Apple TV app from the Google Play Store. On some smart TVs — Samsung, LG, Sony, Vizio, and others — the Apple TV app is built in or available to download. On Roku devices and Amazon Fire TV devices, you can also download the app.

If you own an older device or a less common brand, check Apple's device compatibility page to confirm the app is available before you subscribe. The app requires internet access but does not require you to own other Apple products or services.

Bundling Apple TV+ with other services

Apple One is a bundle that combines Apple TV+, Apple Music, iCloud storage, and sometimes Apple Arcade or Apple News+ into one monthly payment. The bundle costs less than paying for each service separately. A basic bundle with TV+, Music, and 50 GB of iCloud storage costs less than the individual services combined.

If you already subscribe to Apple Music or pay for iCloud storage, switching to Apple One can save you money. You can change your bundle or cancel it at any time. Apple One is available in most countries where Apple TV+ is sold, though pricing and included services vary by region.

Free trials and promotions

Apple TV+ does not offer a standard free trial to new subscribers in most places. However, if you buy a new iPhone, iPad, Mac, or Apple TV, you may receive three months of Apple TV+ free. Some mobile carriers and internet providers also offer free months as part of their plans — check with your provider to see if they have a partnership with Apple.

These promotions change over time and vary by country and device. If you are considering a new Apple device purchase, ask the retailer or check Apple's website to see what trial period comes with it. Promotions through carriers typically require you to be an active customer on a may have access to plan.

Canceling or pausing your subscription

You can cancel Apple TV+ at any time through your Apple ID settings on any device, or through your account on Apple's website. Cancellation takes effect at the end of your current billing period — you keep access until that date, then your subscription stops. There is no penalty for canceling, and you can restart it later if you want to return.

Apple does not offer a pause or freeze option. If you want to stop paying temporarily, you must cancel and restart when you are ready. Your watch history and preferences are saved to your Apple ID, so when you restart, your account looks the same as when you left.

Comparing Apple TV+ to other streaming services

Apple TV+ is one of several major streaming services. Netflix offers more total content and has a cheaper ad-supported tier, but costs more for ad-free viewing. Disney+ includes Marvel, Star Wars, and Disney films, plus ESPN+ and Hulu in bundles. HBO Max has a large library of films and HBO series. Amazon Prime Video comes with free shipping and other Prime benefits.

Apple TV+ is smallest by library size but known for high production quality on its originals. The choice depends on which shows and films matter to you. Many people subscribe to multiple services rather than choosing one. You can check what is currently on each service's website before deciding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I share my Apple TV+ account with people outside my household?

The family plan is designed for people in the same household. Apple's terms say you should not share your account with people who do not live with you. If you do, Apple may ask you to verify your household or restrict access. The family plan is the intended way to let multiple people watch legally.

Do I need an Apple device to watch Apple TV+?

No. You need an Apple ID to create an account, but you can watch on Android phones, smart TVs, Roku, Fire TV, and computers that are not made by Apple. The Apple TV app is available on most modern streaming devices and smart TVs.

What happens if I cancel and then restart my subscription?

Your watch history, preferences, and saved shows stay attached to your Apple ID. When you restart, your account looks the same as when you canceled. You do not lose anything by pausing your subscription, though you will not have access to the service while canceled.

Is Apple TV+ included in Apple Music or iCloud subscriptions?

No. Apple TV+ is separate from Apple Music and iCloud storage. You can bundle them together through Apple One to save money, but you must pay for each service. Buying an Apple device may include a free trial of TV+, but that is different from a regular subscription.

Can I watch Apple TV+ offline?

Yes. The Apple TV app lets you download episodes and films to your device to watch without internet. Downloaded content expires after a set period, and you must reconnect to the internet periodically to refresh your subscription. Downloads work on iPhones, iPads, and some other devices, but not all.