Apple TV Review: Features, Price, Discount, and Tips You Don't Know

Among the different streaming services available currently, Apple TV Plus is the one that has been creating a huge interest in people's minds. Even when it may not be as popular as Netflix or Amazon Prime Video, it does have its own dedicated user base who flock to it for the quality entertainment that it brings.

But, what if you are new to Apple TV Plus and want to know what Apple TV Plus is? In this guide, we’ll walk you through pricing, sign‑up, must‑stream shows (What to watch on Apple TV Plus), devices including Apple TV Plus for Android, and tips like how to cast Apple TV Plus to Chromecast.

Stick around—we even reveal an easy way to download Apple TV Plus content using KeepStreams so you can watch offline forever.

Basic Information: What is Apple TV Plus?

We will begin with an understanding of Apple TV Plus and what it is all about. Apple TV Plus is a streaming service launched in 2019. The streaming service is different from the Apple TV hardware media streaming box.

The streaming service, just like other similar services available, offers original shows and movies that you can enjoy on demand by opting for a subscription plan.

Ted Lasso to the Academy Award-winning film CODA, Apple TV+ has consistently proven that a smaller, more focused catalog can deliver a higher "hit-to-miss" ratio for viewers.

So, what exactly is Apple TV+? At its core, it's a subscription service offering a library composed entirely of Apple Originals—films and series produced and funded by Apple. For a monthly fee of $9.99, subscribers get ad-free access to a growing collection of premium content.

This definitive guide will serve as your one-stop resource for everything Apple TV+. We'll explore what makes the service unique, demystify the often-confusing hardware and software names, recommend the best Apple TV shows you shouldn't miss, and provide a comprehensive walkthrough for how to download videos from Apple TV Plus.

Apple TV+ Service vs. Apple TV 4K Hardware

Well, this is something that may be quite confusing for most of us. How do Apple TV and Apple TV Plus differ from one another? To clear the air about the confusion, here is a distinction between Apple TV and Apple TV Plus.

The confusion is evident from the discussions running on platforms like Reddit. I'd like to quote an analogy I like. Based on the idea, the difference is pretty clear:

This is a physical set-top box that connects to your television via HDMI. Powered by the formidable A15 Bionic chip, it's a high-performance media player and smart home hub that aggregates all your streaming apps (Netflix, Hulu, etc.) alongside Apple's own services.

This is the subscription-based content platform. Paying the monthly or annual fee grants you access to watch all Apple Original movies and shows.

This is the software portal pre-installed on Apple devices, many smart TVs, and gaming consoles. It's the gateway through which you access Apple TV+ content, rent or buy iTunes movies, and subscribe to other premium channels.

To clarify the differences, here is a direct comparison:

Analysis: The Apple TV 4K hardware serves as more than a simple streaming device; it stands as the heart of Apple's vision to weave its ecosystem seamlessly into your living space.

It operates effortlessly with iPhones (for color calibration), AirPods (for audio sharing), and HomeKit (for smart home control), providing a cohesive experience that many built-in smart TV operating systems struggle to achieve.

The decision to buy an Apple TV 4K is less about accessing Apple TV+ and more about investing in a premium, unified home entertainment system.

What Can You Watch on Apple TV Plus?

Apple TV Plus offers you an exemplary array of ad-free Apple TV originals that go across multiple genres. You can explore critically acclaimed dramas, thrilling sci-fi series, heartwarming comedies, compelling documentaries, and engaging kids' entertainment.

Other Services on Apple TV

It's important to recognize the distinction between Apple TV and Apple TV Plus. Apple TV serves as a complete entertainment center, allowing you to subscribe to and enjoy a variety of premium channels and streaming services.

A few examples here can be:

1. Paramount+: You can subscribe to Paramount+ as an Apple TV Channel within the Apple TV app. You can follow the right options on your connected TV, a mobile device, or even on the Paramount Plus website.

2. Disney+: The Apple TV app provides a dedicated "room" for Disney+ content. You can find a wide variety of Disney+ originals, movies, and series, including titles from Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and Disney's classic and live-action collections.

To access this content, you typically sign in to your Disney+ account through the Apple TV app. The content available may vary by region, and you might be asked to confirm your approximate location to display relevant local content.

3. ESPN+: The ESPN app can be found on Apple TV, but some users have experienced challenges with its performance, such as needing to re-authenticate often or issues with recognizing their subscriptions.

A frequently recommended solution by users is to view ESPN content via Hulu, especially if your Hulu account is connected to your ESPN+ subscription, as this tends to be more dependable. If you run into problems, checking that your email address is accurately entered next to your ESPN+ account in the app's settings may help fix login prompts.

Subscribing to these channels via the Apple TV app allows you to streamline your streaming experience and explore a wider variety of content, all in one place.

What to Watch: The Best Apple TV+ Shows You Can't Miss in 2025

Apple TV+ has built its reputation on prestige television. Here are five of the platform's absolute must-watch series, complete with a look at what makes them so compelling. 

Severance

Synopsis: Workers at the enigmatic Lumon Industries experience a surgical process that disconnects their professional memories from their personal experiences. As a new team member shakes things up, leader Mark (Adam Scott) starts to reflect on his role and stumbles upon a disturbing secret.

Why You Should Watch: A captivating mix of sci-fi thriller and workplace satire, Severance is a visually striking and intellectually stimulating series that has ignited extensive conversation. The intriguing mystery and outstanding cast contribute to its status as one of the most celebrated shows of the decade.

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 95%

Slow Horses

Synopsis: A team of disgraced MI5 agents is exiled to "Slough House," a dead-end administrative department. Under the guidance of their sharp yet confrontational leader, Jackson Lamb (Gary Oldman), they often become embroiled in intense espionage challenges.

Why You Should Watch: This cleverly humorous spy drama playfully twists genre norms. Oldman's performance is exceptional, and the series consistently offers well-crafted plots and clever, engaging dialogue season after season.

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 98%

Ted Lasso

Synopsis: An endlessly hopeful American football coach finds himself unexpectedly taking the reins of a British Premier League soccer team, even though he has no background in the sport. He seeks to earn the trust of the doubtful team and community through his unwavering kindness and charisma.

Why You Should Watch: Ted Lasso, the standout series that established Apple TV+ as a major player, has become a worldwide phenomenon known for its genuine warmth, humor, and touching message about kindness and humanity. 

Apple TV Plus Features

Apple TV Plus offers you several features that make your viewing experience truly stand out. It offers you a high degree of flexibility with top-notch technical specifications.

From the technical point of view, I must say I am impressed with the following features:

• Video Quality that offers you up to 4K HDR/Dolby Vision
• Audio excellence with Dolby Atmos support on compatible devices
• Offline Viewing options to download content for offline playback
• Streaming with an Adaptive bitrate for optimal quality based on an internet connection

That apart, you can also get access to the following performance-related features:

• Simultaneous Streams and Family Sharing: As part of a family sharing, you can have up to 6 simultaneous streams. That would mean six members of your family can watch six different shows of their preferences at the same time. Each of the members will have their own recommendations and watch history.
• Downloads: The streaming service lets you download content from its platform and watch it offline. However, the feature comes with a few limitations. More on that later in this article.

How to Watch Shows on Apple TV Plus?

Well, if you have used other popular streaming services, working with Apple TV Plus should not be a huge concern. It should ideally be a simple, straightforward process. The steps and options are simple and suit both seasoned users and those new to the Apple ecosystem.

Let us go through a step-by-step guide on how to begin watching Apple TV+ shows.

Sign Up and Login in to Apple TV+

To begin your streaming journey with Apple TV Plus, you need to have an Apple account. If you do not have an account, you will need to create one.

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to set up your Apple TV Plus account and sign up:

Navigate to and open the Apple TV app on your Apple TV device, iPhone, iPad, Mac, or compatible smart TV/streaming device.

Within the app, open the sidebar (if applicable) and select "Apple TV+"

Look for and select the subscription button or an option to start a free trial.

The app will guide you through the sign-up process. You'll typically be prompted to sign in with your existing Apple Account. If you have an Apple Account, you can simply enter your credentials to start your free trial. If you don't have one, you'll be guided to create one.

Once signed in and you've accepted the terms, your Apple TV Plus subscription will be active, and you can immediately begin browsing and watching content.

This streamlined process ensures that even first-time users can quickly sign up and gain access to the premium content library offered by Apple TV Plus. The deep integration with your Apple ID makes managing your subscription and accessing content across multiple devices intuitive and hassle-free.

Apple TV Plus Subscription

Well, this should be crucial information for understanding the subscription structure and the options available for free trials and other offers.

Apple offers competitive pricing, along with several generous trial periods and bundling options that can significantly enhance its value proposition. Here's a breakdown of the standard Apple TV Plus cost, free trials, and various ways to save on your Apple TV Plus subscription in 2025.

So, how much is Apple TV Plus? In the United States, the Apple TV Plus subscription is priced at $9.99/mo. It comes with a 7-day free trial option as well. It can also be included as part of the Apple One bundle, which offers multiple Apple services at a discounted rate. Please note that the pricing may differ in your country.

Select Apple devices come with a 3-month free subscription to Apple TV Plus.

Apple is well-known for its generous Apple TV Plus free trial offers, which are perhaps the most common way for new users to experience the service without immediate commitment.

When you opt for a subscription, you will automatically get a 7-day free trial during which you can cancel your subscription. This should help the new subscribers to get an experience of the entire library of the Apple TV+ package.

This should be the most attractive option for those buying new Apple devices. When you purchase a new iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV streaming box, or even an Apple Watch, you are typically eligible for a complimentary three-month subscription to Apple TV Plus.

I consider it to be a significant perk with your purchase of the hardware.

Apple and its partners occasionally offer extended trial periods. For example, in the past, certain retailers or service providers have offered 1-month, 2-month, or even 6-month free trials as part of special promotions. Keep an eye out for these, especially around major shopping holidays.

Beyond the standard discounts and bundled offers, there are a few targeted Apple TV Plus deals and discounts running from time to time.

If you are a student, this should be an excellent deal. If you belong to an eligible college or university, you can avail of Apple Music at a discounted price of $5.99 in the United States.

Crucially, this Apple Music Student Plan includes Apple TV Plus for free at no additional cost. This means you get two premium services for a significantly reduced price. You may check the exact pricing in your region.

Apple may decide to offer direct discounts and special deals on occasions like Black Friday or Holiday Breaks.

These offers may include reduced prices for the initial months, retailer promotions, bundled offers with hardware, and bundle deals on other services. However, it should be noted that these offers are not guaranteed and may change at the discretion of Apple.

The table here should give you a clear idea of what to expect from Apple TV Plus and the subscription options that it offers:

By staying aware of these various pricing tiers, trial offers, and discount opportunities, you can ensure you're getting the best possible value for your Apple TV Plus subscription, maximizing your access to its growing library of exclusive and acclaimed content.

We would also recommend checking out the regional website for the exact pricing details.

Where Can You Watch Apple TV Plus?

Apple TV Plus is accessible across a wide range of devices. That is what makes it a significant strength for the streaming service. The availability of Apple TV Plus extends beyond the Apple hardware.

This broad compatibility ensures that you can enjoy Apple Original content virtually anywhere, on the screen that suits you best. The Apple TV Plus app is the key to unlocking this access.

Apple has made its streaming service available across multiple devices and platforms. The cross-platform approach used by Apple has become a major advantage for people who are not using any Apple device or are not part of the Apple ecosystem.

Apple TV+ Supported Devices

Here's a comprehensive list of devices where you can download and stream content via the Apple TV Plus app:

This should be the natural inclusion and quite practical. Apple TV Plus is either preinstalled or comes with support for iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch.

As for the Mac users, the Apple TV app comes built into macOS, thereby providing you with a native experience for desktop viewing. Apple TV streaming boxes are specifically designed for Apple TV Plus. It offers a more streamlined and high-fidelity experience.

Many leading smart TV brands have the Apple TV app available directly from their app stores, eliminating the need for an external streaming device. Samsung smart TVs manufactured after 2018 belong to the UHD, QLED, Serif, Frame, and Sero series genres.

Other smart TVs supported include LG smart TVs, Sony smart TVs, Vizio smart TVs, Panasonic smart TVs, and HiSense smart TVs.

These include Roku devices like Roku Express, Streaming Stick, Premiere, and Ultra. It is also supported on Roku TVs. Amazon Fire TV services and Google TV devices are other excellent options for watching your favorite content on Apple TV Plus. You can also get it on Android TV streaming devices like NVIDIA SHIELD TV.

You can expand your entertainment options by exploring the Apple TV Plus entertainment on PlayStation devices like PlayStation 4 (PS4) and PlayStation 5 (PS5). You can also install it on Xbox One, Xbox Series X, and Xbox Series S.

You can also stream Apple TV Plus content directly through a web browser on a computer. Simply visit tv.apple.com and sign in with your Apple ID. This provides access on Windows PCs, Linux machines, or any other computer where a modern web browser (like Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge) is available.

In some regions or with specific providers, the Apple TV app might be integrated into certain cable or satellite boxes, like Comcast Xfinity in the US.

Aah…! That is really a formidable list of eligible devices. But, that should give you an idea of the wide range of options that you stand to gain if you are looking to experience Apple TV Plus on your device.

Apple TV Plus for Android: Official App vs. APK Risks

If you are an Android user, Apple TV Plus has an app on the Google Play Store. The official Apple TV Plus app on Android is readily available on the Google Play Store for Android phones and tablets, as well as on Android TV devices (like Sony TVs running Android TV, NVIDIA SHIELD TV, and Chromecast with Google TV).

The official app provides a legitimate, secure, and fully functional way to access Apple TV+ content on your Android devices. It offers several features, like

1. Streaming Apple Originals in high quality.
2. Access to Friday Night Baseball and MLS Season Pass.
3. Offline Downloads: A crucial feature, allowing you to download shows and movies on Apple TV Plus directly to your Android phone or tablet for offline viewing, perfect for commutes or travel without Wi-Fi.
4. "Continue Watching" and personalized recommendations across devices.

But, yes, but…. We never recommend using the APK download and install method for Apple TV Plus on your Android devices. These installations carry an inherent risk and are generally considered unsafe. They typically pose the following risks:

1. Risk of Viruses and Malware: Unofficial APKs are a common vector for distributing malware, spyware, and viruses. These malicious programs can compromise your device's security, steal your personal data (passwords, banking information), or damage your device.

2. Violation of Terms of Use: Downloading and installing apps from unofficial sources often violates the terms of service of the streaming platform (Apple, in this case). This could potentially lead to your account being suspended or terminated.

3. Instability and Functionality Issues: Unofficial APKs are not supported by Apple. They may be outdated, buggy, lack key features, or simply not work correctly. You won't receive official updates or security patches, leaving you vulnerable and with a poor user experience.

4. No Customer Support: If you encounter issues with an unofficial APK, you will not receive any support from Apple, as you are operating outside their official distribution channels.

5. Security Vulnerabilities: These APKs might be tampered with to bypass security features, making your device more susceptible to attacks.

Can You Download Apple TV+ for Offline Viewing?

The offline download option on a streaming service is a godsend for watching your favorite content offline. It allows you to enjoy your favorite shows and movies on Apple TV Plus during flights, commutes, or in areas with unreliable internet access.

Apple TV Plus does offer an official download service, but it comes with specific limitations. Thankfully, there are advanced solutions that can help you bypass these restrictions.

Official Download Service and Limits

The official method of downloading the videos for offline viewing involves downloading the videos from within the official app. The feature is available on the Apple TV Plus app on mobile devices and desktops.

Of course, the method is convenient and does not require you to use any other third-party tool. However, it is subject to several limitations due to Digital Rights Management (DRM) and Apple's licensing agreements.

The downloads are available only on certain devices. You can only download content on compatible Apple mobile devices (iPhone, iPad, iPod touch), Macs, PCs (via iTunes for Windows, which also manages downloads), and Apple Vision Pro.

No Downloads are available on TVs or Streaming Devices. Crucially, you cannot download content directly to the Apple TV streaming box (the hardware), smart TVs, Roku devices (Apple TV Plus on Roku only supports streaming), Amazon Fire TV devices, or gaming consoles. These platforms are designed for streaming only, requiring an active internet connection.

Similarly, you cannot download content when streaming via the tv.apple.com website. At least you can't do it without a third-party tool.

You need an active Subscription for downloads. Downloads are tied to your active Apple TV Plus subscription. If your subscription expires or is canceled, all downloaded content will become unplayable.

The downloaded videos come with time-limited access. Most downloaded titles have an expiration period, typically 30 days from the date of download or 48 hours once you start watching the content, whichever comes first.

After this period, the download will expire, and you'll need to re-download it (if your subscription is still active). Some content might have even shorter expiration windows based on specific licensing terms with the service providers.

There is a download limit on per per-account or per-channel basis. Some Apple TV Channels (third-party subscriptions through the Apple TV app) or even Apple TV Plus itself might impose limits on the total number of titles you can download at any given time or the number of devices on which you can simultaneously hold downloads.

If you hit these limits, you'll be prompted to delete existing downloads to make room for new ones.

Not All Content is Downloadable. While most Apple Original content is usually available for download, there might be rare instances where specific titles (especially live events or certain licensed movies) are restricted to streaming only. This is a typical case when you are looking to download content from third-party providers.

These limitations, while understandable from a content protection standpoint, can be frustrating for users. Especially for those users who desire more control over their downloaded media and wish to truly own or archive their favorite shows and movies on Apple TV Plus.

Downloading the Apple TV Plus titles using a third-party video downloader can be a good option.

Unlimited Choice: KeepStreams for Apple TV Plus

The limitations of the default download method make it appropriate to look for the best third-party options. These tools can help you download your Apple TV+ shows and movies with no limitations whatsoever. Of course, there are several third-party downloaders available for Apple TV Plus. But each of them comes with their specific traits.

But KeepStreams for Apple TV Plus offers a truly reliable and trusted platform for downloading your favorite Apple TV Plus titles. KeepStreams offers unparalleled flexibility and control over your Apple TV+ content. It empowers you to truly own your downloaded shows and movies, allowing for permanent offline storage and versatile playback options.

KeepStreams For Apple TV Plus

KeepStreams functions by effectively removing this DRM protection during the download process. It captures the video stream as it plays, but instead of saving it in an encrypted, time-limited format, it converts it into a universally compatible, DRM-free file format, typically MP4.

This process means the downloaded files are no longer bound by Apple's restrictions, offering "unlimited choice."

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Some salient features of KeepStreams for Apple TV Plus include:

This is the core functionality of the KeepStreams downloader. By stripping DRM, KeepStreams enables you to save Apple TV+ videos as standard MP4 files. These files are playable on virtually any device forever. That should provide you with true universal compatibility.

In contrast to official downloads that have a time limit, videos saved with KeepStreams remain on your local computer storage for as long as you need them. No expiration dates, no need to re-download, and no concerns about losing access if your subscription ends. Your downloads remain accessible until you decide to remove them.

KeepStreams allows you to download videos in impressive quality, often reaching 1080p, while also maintaining audio tracks in formats such as EAC3 5.1 or AAC 2.0, providing an exceptional viewing and listening experience. Watching high-quality videos with studio-level sound creates a truly remarkable experience.

Downloading multiple episodes from a series or an entire season at once can save you a lot of time and effort compared to starting each download separately.

Designed for quick downloads, KeepStreams usually provides fast speeds, enabling you to create your offline library in no time.

Key details about the content, including title, cast, season, episode, and cover art, are typically stored alongside the video file, simplifying the organization of your personal library.

You can choose to download subtitles (as SRT files or embedded directly into the video) and select preferred audio tracks (e.g., different languages), catering to your specific needs.

Because the output format is MP4 or MKV, you can easily transfer the downloaded movies on Apple TV Plus to any device: external hard drives, USB sticks, media servers, other phones/tablets (including Android devices for Apple TV Plus for Android users who want offline viewing beyond the official app), or even older media players that don't support the Apple TV app directly.

This bypasses the device limit entirely and provides you with the option to play the downloaded videos on practically any device.

So, how to download Apple TV Plus shows using KeepStreams for Apple TV Plus? KeepStreams offers an intuitive interface that suits both newbies and expert users alike. You can comfortably download your favorite titles without the need to have high-end technical expertise.

My Personal Experience: Why KeepStreams is My Go-To Downloader

As a tech editor who travels often, having a dependable offline library is essential. After trying out various downloaders, KeepStreams has emerged as my favorite. What immediately stood out was its clean, user-friendly interface. The built-in browser makes it simple to log into my Apple TV+ account and find the content I want.

The batch download feature is a lifesaver. Before a long flight, I can queue up an entire season of Slow Horses and let it run. The download speeds remain reliably quick, and it stores videos in the widely compatible MP4 format.

This allows me to effortlessly move the files to my laptop or Android tablet without any concerns about compatibility, providing me with genuine viewing freedom.

Step 1. Install KeepStreams on your device

Get KeepStreams from the official website. The downloader can be accessed on both Windows and Mac systems. Select a version that suits your operating system. Also, we suggest choosing the free trial option to help you get used to the tool before you choose a subscription plan.

Step 2. Choose Apple TV Plus

From among the multiple streaming services available on the tool, choose Apple TV Plus. Sign in to your Apple account. You can even create a new account if you do not have one or do not want to use your existing account for any reason.

Step 3. Search for the titles that you want to download

Utilize the search option to locate and discover the video you wish to download. This will open the dialog box for download settings. Set up the options for video quality, sound tracks, and subtitle choices according to your preferences.

Step 4. Download the video

Once you've configured the download settings, just click on Download Now to begin downloading the video. You can choose a time for the video to download.

In-Depth Tool Comparison: Finding the Best Apple TV+ Downloader

To help you make an informed decision, we've compared some of the leading downloaders on the market.

Verdict: While StreamFab offers a variety of features, its lack of consistency and high price make it a less reliable option. TunePat's inconsistent support for Apple TV+ is a notable drawback. KeepStreams provides a perfect combination of efficiency, consistency, and ease of use, ensuring it is a trustworthy choice.

Troubleshooting: Solving Common Download & Playback Issues

The Black Screen Dilemma: Why Can't I Screenshot or Record Apple TV+?

Many users have encountered a frustrating issue: when trying to take a screenshot or record a video playing on Apple TV+, the result is a black screen. This isn't a bug; it's simply a feature of DRM (Digital Rights Management).

DRM is a technique used by content providers like Apple and Netflix to protect their copyrighted material from being copied without permission.

When you try to record the screen, the operating system or graphics driver identifies the protected content and prevents the video feed, leading to a black screen.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Disable Hardware Acceleration

A typical solution for this problem, especially when viewing in a web browser, is to turn off "hardware acceleration." This feature transfers graphics-heavy tasks from your computer's main processor to its graphics card for a more seamless experience.

 Turning it off makes the CPU manage all tasks, which may allow some DRM recording protections to be circumvented. Keep in mind that this might have a small impact on your browser's overall performance.

Here’s how to do it in popular browsers:

Google Chrome:

• Click the three-dot menu in the top-right corner and select Settings.
• In the left-hand menu, click System.
• Find the toggle for Use hardware acceleration when available and turn it off.
• Click the Relaunch button to apply the changes.

Mozilla Firefox:

• Click the three-line "hamburger" menu in the top-right corner and select Settings.
• In the General panel, scroll down to the Performance section.
• Uncheck the box for Use recommended performance settings.
• A new option will appear. Uncheck the box for Use hardware acceleration when available.
• Restart Firefox to apply the changes.

Conclusion

Exploring the world of streaming services can be quite intricate, as many platforms compete for your focus and subscription fees. This comprehensive guide equips you with the understanding to fully appreciate Apple's remarkable entertainment offerings.

We've carefully examined the main distinction between Apple TV and Apple TV Plus, highlighting that one is the adaptable hardware device while the other is the distinctive streaming service filled with Apple Original content. In a competitive streaming market, Apple TV Plus stands out as a service focused on outstanding, exclusive programming.

With this comprehensive grasp of its features, pricing, and ways to enhance its use (such as managing services like Paramount Plus and Disney Plus on Apple TV), you are now ready to enjoy a more fulfilling and adaptable entertainment experience.

About the Author

Steve Collins, Editor-in-Chief

Steve Collins serves as a technology editor and analyst, drawing from his extensive experience in computer science and digital media. With over a decade of experience in data analytics and financial technology, Steve brings a unique perspective to the world of streaming entertainment.

She is committed to making complex technology easier to understand and empowering consumers to navigate the ever-changing digital landscape with confidence.