Apple TV+ is now called Apple TV. The old name is still what many people search for. But the subscription itself is now branded as Apple TV.
Before you pay, it is wise to know what you are actually getting. It also helps to have information on what you are not getting.
1. The Apple TV app and the Apple TV+ subscription are not the same thing
This is the part that will probably confuse you. The Apple TV app is just a hub. Inside it, you will find Apple Originals, live sports, movies to buy or rent, premium channels, links to other streaming services, and some cable content.
Your Apple TV+ subscription only unlocks the Apple TV subscription content itself. It does not automatically unlock everything you see inside the app. Third-party channels, branded add-ons, and movies or shows sold through the store still cost extra.
If you go in expecting one payment to open the whole app, you will probably be annoyed. You could open a title page and still find that it is a rental, a purchase, or part of a separate channel subscription. That is normal here.
2. You are paying for Apple Originals first, not a giant mixed library
This platform is still built around exclusive originals. You will get lots of Apple-made series and films. The brand also has some documentaries, kids programming, and comedy.
The originals you will get here are commercial-free. The main release rhythm is built around regular weekly drops. New movies and series are often added on all Wednesdays and Fridays. Some shows could have all episodes released at once.
The streaming service is your go to if you want premium originals. These are titles like Severance, The Morning Show, Slow Horses, Ted Lasso, and Apple’s newer film releases.
3. Live sports are now a part of the subscription
Apple TV+ is no longer just a drama-and-comedy service. Your subscription now includes every MLS match. You get Friday Night Baseball plus Formula 1 in the U.S. at no extra cost.
MLS comes with no blackouts. Formula 1 coverage includes practice, qualifying, Sprint sessions, and races. That is a much more solid sports package than many people still expect from Apple.
There is also some good catch-up support. When the sport is in season, you can watch recaps and full replays after games, matches, and races end. That helps if you do not want to stay up late or cannot watch live.
4. No need for Apple hardware
You do not need an iPhone, iPad or Mac. You also do not have to buy an Apple TV 4K box to use this platform.
It is available on almost all Operating Systems on phones or TVs. These also include even your PlayStation, Xbox, and some cable boxes. That gives Apple TV much wider reach than many people assume.
On some devices, the app is also limited to Apple TV movies and shows. It does not include all channels or all of the extra features found on other versions of the app.
Offline viewing also depends on the device you use. You can download supported content on devices that allow downloads. You cannot download from the Apple TV app on Apple TV boxes, smart TVs, streaming devices, or tv.apple.com.
5. You don’t need to pay the full monthly price
This platform normally costs $12.99 per month. This charge applies after a 7-day free trial. But that is only one path in.
If you buy an eligible new Apple device, you get this service free for 3 months, and you have to redeem that offer within 90 days.
There are other lower-cost routes too. Apple One includes Apple TV and starts at $19.95 per month in the U.S. The Apple Music Student Plan also includes access to Apple TV for a limited time. In the U.S., there is also an Apple TV and Peacock bundle starting at $14.99 per month, with a higher tier at $19.99 per month if you want Peacock Premium Plus.