How to Set Up Apple TV+ on Any Device

Setting up Apple TV+: a complete guide to Apple's streaming service

Apple TV+ is Apple's own streaming service, focused on high-quality original content. With award-winning series and films, Apple TV+ offers a unique viewing experience. In this extensive guide, we explain how you can set up and use Apple TV+ on various devices, even if you don't own an Apple device.

What makes Apple TV+ special?

Apple TV+ stands out from other streaming services by offering only original content. Instead of a large library of licensed films, Apple focuses on quality over quantity. The service has already won several Emmys, Golden Globes and even an Oscar for productions such as Ted Lasso, The Morning Show, CODA and Severance.

All content on Apple TV+ is available in 4K HDR with Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos support where possible. This ensures excellent picture and sound quality. In addition, the service is relatively affordable compared to other premium streaming services.

Getting an Apple TV+ subscription

To use Apple TV+, you need an Apple ID. This also applies if you don't own an Apple device.

Step 1: Create an Apple ID

Go to appleid.apple.com and click "Create Your Apple ID". Enter your name, email address and a strong password. Answer the security questions and verify your email address through the confirmation link.

Step 2: Sign up for Apple TV+

Go to tv.apple.com and sign in with your Apple ID. Click "Start Free Trial" or "Subscribe" if you want to start right away. Apple often offers a free trial period for new users.

Step 3: Add payment details

Enter your payment method. Apple accepts credit cards, debit cards and, in some regions, PayPal. You can also pay through your phone bill with supported carriers.

Step 4: Confirm your subscription

Check your details and confirm the subscription. You will receive a confirmation by email and can start watching right away.

Getting Apple TV+ for free

Apple regularly offers free access to Apple TV+ when you buy new Apple devices.

Free with new Apple devices

When you buy a new iPhone, iPad, Mac or Apple TV, you often get three months of Apple TV+ for free. This offer must be redeemed within 90 days of activating the device. Check whether your device qualifies through the Apple TV app.

Apple One bundle

Apple One combines several Apple services, including Apple TV+, Apple Music, iCloud+ and more, in a cheaper bundle. If you use several Apple services, this can be an interesting option.

Setting up Apple TV+ on Apple devices

On Apple devices, the Apple TV app is usually already installed.

iPhone and iPad

Open the Apple TV app that comes preinstalled on your device. Tap the "Apple TV+" tab and sign in with your Apple ID if you haven't already. Browse the catalog and start watching.

Mac

Open the Apple TV app from the Dock or through Finder. Sign in with your Apple ID and navigate to the Apple TV+ section. You can also download series and films to watch offline.

Apple TV box

The Apple TV streaming box offers the best Apple TV+ experience. Open the TV app and sign in with your Apple ID. Apple TV supports 4K HDR and Dolby Atmos for the best quality.

Apple TV+ on non-Apple devices

You can also use Apple TV+ without an Apple device.

Smart TVs with the Apple TV app

Many modern smart TVs from Samsung, LG and Sony have the Apple TV app available. Look for the app in your TV's app store. Download and install the app, sign in with your Apple ID and start watching.

Through the web browser

Go to tv.apple.com in your web browser on any computer. Sign in with your Apple ID to access all Apple TV+ content. This method works on Windows, Linux and Chrome OS.

Amazon Fire TV Stick

Download the Apple TV app from the Amazon App Store on your Fire TV Stick. Sign in with your Apple ID. You can also watch purchased and rented films from your iTunes library.

Roku and Chromecast

On Roku devices, the Apple TV app is available in the Channel Store. For Chromecast, you can cast from the Apple TV app on your phone or tablet.

PlayStation and Xbox

The Apple TV app is available on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S. Download the app from the respective store and sign in with your Apple ID.

Setting up profiles and Family Sharing

Apple TV+ supports multiple profiles and Family Sharing.

Creating user profiles

Open the Apple TV app and go to the settings. Select "Add Profile" to create a new profile. Each profile gets its own recommendations and a separate watchlist. You can create up to six profiles.

Turning on Family Sharing

With Apple Family Sharing, you can share your Apple TV+ subscription with up to five other family members. Each family member uses the service with his or her own Apple ID. Go to the settings on your Apple device and set up Family Sharing. Add family members using their Apple ID.

Child-friendly settings

Apple TV+ offers extensive options to let children watch safely.

Creating a kids profile

Create a separate profile for children and set the age restrictions. This profile only shows content suitable for the age you set. The interface is also simplified for young viewers.

Screen Time and restrictions

With the Screen Time feature on Apple devices, you can set limits on how long children are allowed to watch. You can also block specific apps and content based on age rating.

Downloading content for on the go

Apple TV+ content can be downloaded on supported devices.

Managing downloads

Open the Apple TV app and find the film or series you want to download. Tap the download icon next to the title or episode. Downloads are saved in the library section of the app. You can adjust the download quality in the settings.

Watching offline

Downloaded content is available without an internet connection. Ideal for flights or places without Wi-Fi. Downloads expire after a certain time and must then be renewed with an active subscription.

Optimizing picture and sound settings

Get the most out of Apple TV+ quality.

Setting up 4K and HDR

Make sure your device and TV support 4K and HDR. In the device settings, you can check whether the right video quality is selected. Apple TV+ automatically streams in the highest quality your connection and device can handle.

Dolby Atmos audio

For the best sound experience, Apple TV+ uses Dolby Atmos where available. Check whether your TV or soundbar supports Dolby Atmos. On Apple devices with AirPods Pro or AirPods Max, you can also enjoy spatial audio.

Frequently asked questions about Apple TV+

Do I need an Apple device for Apple TV+?

No, you can also use Apple TV+ without an Apple device. The service is available on smart TVs from Samsung, LG and Sony, through Amazon Fire TV, Roku, PlayStation, Xbox and simply in your web browser at tv.apple.com. You do need an Apple ID to sign in, but you can create one for free.

How many devices can watch at the same time?

With Apple TV+, you can stream on up to six devices at the same time. That is more than most other streaming services offer. Combined with Family Sharing, each family member can watch on their own devices without restrictions.

Does Apple TV+ also offer films and series from other studios?

No, Apple TV+ focuses exclusively on original content produced by Apple. You won't find licensed films from other studios. You can, however, rent or buy films and series from other providers through the Apple TV app, but this falls outside the Apple TV+ subscription.

Can I share my subscription with others?

Yes, through Apple Family Sharing you can share your Apple TV+ subscription with up to five other people. Each family member needs their own Apple ID and gets access to the full Apple TV+ library. Family members can also set up their own profiles and preferences.