It can be confusing to distinguish between Apple TVApple TV+ and even Apple TV Channels. The names are similar and they all involve watching series and movies, but they're not the same. In this guide, we'll tell you everything in detail so you know what each one includes, how much it costs, on which devices you can watch it, and what the differences are, without unnecessary technical jargon and in clear language. The idea is that you leave here knowing exactly what to hire or what to buy..
To begin, it's worth remembering that Apple TV can refer to two things: the Apple TV app (where your entertainment is organized) and the Apple TV 4K, which is a streaming device you connect to your TV. Apple TV+ is Apple's subscription service with original productions. And Apple TV Channels are subscriptions to third-party channels integrated into the app. With these pieces in mind, it's much easier to decide what suits you..
What is Apple TV (app and device)
When you hear “Apple TV”, you may be looking at the Apple TV app or on the Apple TV 4K device. The Apple TV app brings together your movie purchases and rentals, third-party channel subscriptions, and access to Apple TV+. It comes pre-installed on iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple TV, and can also be used on many Smart TVs and at tv.apple.com.
The tvOS experience stands out thanks to its Siri Remote and its seamless integration with other devices. With voice control, you can request a title, lower the volume, search by actor or genre, and navigate without touching any buttons. In addition, with AirPlay you can send content from your iPhone or iPad, and with Continuity Camera you can use the TV as a screen for your FaceTime calls..
If you enjoy home entertainment, there are extras that add up: Apple Arcade (video games), Apple Fitness+ (guided workouts), Apple Music (music on your TV), HomeKit (connected home control) and practical features like pairing Two pairs of AirPods to watch a movie at the same time without disturbing anyone, use the iPhone as a remote control or even locate the Siri Remote when it “disappears” among the cushions.
Among the reasons to own an Apple TV 4K, some are often repeated: a huge catalog of apps, top-notch image and sound quality, ease of use, and excellent integration with the rest of the ecosystem. If your TV is good but its system is just adequate, the Apple TV 4K could be the performance and quality boost you've been missing..
What is Apple TV+
Apple TV+ is the subscription-based streaming service that provides access to Apple's catalog of original productions: series, movies, and documentaries. Launched in 2019, its philosophy is clear: prioritize quality over quantity. This translates into big names in front of and behind the cameras, and a technical commitment to 4K and Dolby Atmos..
While other platforms thrive on having a vast library of licenses, Apple TV+ focuses on original content, ad-free, with new releases every month. You won't find massive franchises from other companies or a massive influx of timeless classics here, but you will find meticulously crafted productions and some theatrical releases that arrive on the platform after their theatrical run. If you're looking for carefully selected titles with meticulous production values, you've come to the right place..
Among his most popular series are Ted Lasso, Severance, The Morning Show, Pluribus or Slow Horses; and among the recent feature films, blockbusters like Napoleon or Killers of the Moon. There's also epic science fiction like Foundation and a good selection of documentaries, family films, and children's programming. Variety is there, but the focus remains on "less is more," with content created to stand out..
A helpful tip: You can watch Apple TV+ in the Apple TV app or from your browser at tv.apple.com, and you don't need an Apple device to subscribe. However, the Android app isn't available in all countries, so if it's not in your Play Store, the browser is the universal way to access it. There's no native app on Windows either: the browser is your ally once again..
Differences between Apple TV, Apple TV+ and Apple TV Channels
The key difference is that Apple TV+ is a subscription service with original content, while Apple TV (app) is the "container" where Apple TV+, your movie purchases or rentals, and third-party channels (Apple TV Channels) coexist. The Apple TV 4K, meanwhile, is the device you connect to your TV to enjoy all of this with tvOS.
Beyond streaming, the Apple TV app also lets you rent or buy digital releases from virtually every studio. This coexists with Apple TV+ without replacing it. Apple lets you choose: a subscription to original content on TV+, or one-off purchases/rentals in the Apple TV app.
Pricing, free trial, and subscription options
The price of Apple TV+ varies by country and has changed over time, so you'll see different prices listed on specialized sources. In Spain, it has been reported as starting at €6,99/month and later at €9,99/month after subsequent price increases; in Colombia, it's mentioned as 29.000 COP per month. The important thing is that the subscription is a one-time fee (no ad tiers) and you can check the current price in your region before paying..
There are regular promotions: 7 days of free trial for new subscribers, and 3 months at no cost when you buy an Apple device, redeemable within a limited period after purchase. If you continue, the subscription will revert to your country's standard monthly price..
You can also include Apple TV+ within Apple oneThe service bundle that includes Apple Music, Apple Arcade, and iCloud offers various plans. Individual and Family plans have been announced, priced at €14,95 and €19,95 respectively, but these are subject to change. If you already use several Apple services, Apple One is usually worth it..
Sharing details: With Family Sharing, up to 5 members can enjoy the content; and as for simultaneous playback, Apple TV+ allows up to 6 streams at once with the same subscription. Ideal if everyone at home watches something different or if you're traveling with multiple devices..
Compatible devices and how to watch Apple TV+
You can play Apple TV+ in virtually any modern environment: iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple TV with the Apple TV app; plus many smart TVs (Samsung, LG, Sony, Vizio), streaming devices (Amazon Fire TV, Roku, Chromecast with Google TV), and consoles (PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series). If you don't have the app, you can always visit tv.apple.com in your browser..
On Android, the official Apple TV app isn't available in all regions; when it's not there, you have to access it via the web. Something similar happens on Windows: without a native app, the browser is the solution. Compatibility is expanded with AirPlay 2: wirelessly send video from your iPhone or iPad to compatible TVs.
If you want to "enhance" your TV with a smooth experience, the Apple TV 4K provides the tvOS system with full support for Apple apps, games, and services. It functions as a multimedia hub and, if you have an Apple ecosystem, the integration is noticeable from the very first minute..
Picture and sound quality
Apple TV+ sets the bar high in audiovisuals: 4K content, HDR (including Dolby Vision in compatible titles) and Dolby Atmos sound, provided your device and audio equipment support it. This translates into an experience very close to home cinema when you meet the requirements.
The Apple TV app and Apple TV 4K also enable this level of quality for rentals and purchases. Of course, you'll need a robust 4K connection and a TV that can handle that signal. If your connection is weaker, the app adjusts the resolution to avoid interruptions..
Downloads and offline viewing
As with other services, you can download episodes and movies from Apple TV+ to watch offline on iPhone, iPad, and Mac (and also on PC via the compatible app/client or the options Apple offers depending on the region). Downloads can save you on a flight or a long journey without depending on network coverage..
There are important limitations to keep in mind: Apple TV+ downloads are saved for up to 30 days; they are generally downloaded in HD (up to 1080p), not in 4K; and it is not possible to download on Apple TV, Smart TV, or from tv.apple.com in the browser. Additionally, some integrated third-party channels may impose additional restrictions..
Regarding third-party tools for downloading streaming to local files: they exist, but they often violate terms of use and may infringe legal protections of copyright and DRM. It is not recommended, nor do we provide guidance for it; the safe and legal way is to use the downloads offered by the app itself..
Catalog: TV series and movies that are a hit
In comedy, Ted Lasso has become a phenomenon thanks to the most optimistic coach on TV, with clean humor and endearing characters. It's the kind of show you feel like watching even when you've had a so-so day..
Severance delves into the most elegant psychological thriller: employees who separate their work memories from their personal ones and a mystery that grabs you from the first episode. If you like mind games with polished aesthetics, take note of this title..
The Morning Show offers a behind-closed-doors drama about power, ambition, and reputation in a television morning show, with very powerful performances. Ideal if you enjoy stories about how media narratives are built and fall apart..
Slow Horses is the mischievous flip side of British espionage: “defenestrated” agents seeking redemption through wit and spite. A treat for fans of the genre with a British accent.
In the long run, Apple alternates originals and big bets with theatrical runs: from Napoleon to Killers of the Moon or The Lost Bus, including musical documentaries with an auteur's touch. The variety covers drama, documentary, children's programming and science fiction, with new premieres every month..
Advantages and areas for improvement of Apple TV+
Among the pros: no ads, simple and very fast interface, reference technical quality and the ability to view on up to 6 devices simultaneously, in addition to downloading to view offline on mobiles and tablets. It's a truly "convenient" service, both in terms of what you see and how you see it..
Among the drawbacks: the catalog is smaller than that of all-in-one platforms; if you only want to subscribe to one, you might miss the "quantity." And, although there are apps in many places, on Android and Windows the experience often depends on the browser. If you enjoy digging up classics and other people's franchises, this isn't their focus..
How to watch Apple TV on different devices
On Apple devices, open the Apple TV app, tap or click Apple TV+, and browse the catalog or search for a specific show. On Smart TVs or streaming devices, install the Apple TV app from your TV or device's app store. And if all else fails, tv.apple.com in your browser will get you out of trouble in seconds..
For those using Android without an app available in their country, the alternative is the browser (Chrome usually works perfectly). On consoles, download the app from the PlayStation or Xbox store. Remember to log in with your account to sync progress, lists, and downloads.
Quick FAQ
Can it be shared with family? Yes: Family Sharing allows up to 5 family members to enjoy Apple TV+, and the service supports up to 6 simultaneous streams per subscription. There's no need to create strange profiles: it's designed for living at home..
Is there a free trial? Yes: 7 days for new users. Note: the trial renews automatically if you don't cancel before the end of the period. It's worth setting a reminder in case you decide not to continue..
What are the requirements for Dolby Atmos? You need a compatible device, a sound system or soundbar that supports Atmos, and a sufficient internet connection. Otherwise, you'll still see the content, but with more standard audio tracks (Dolby Digital 5.1, for example). Your experience will improve as the equipment allows..
Can I rent or buy movies without a TV+ subscription? Yes, you can rent or buy titles from multiple studios through the Apple TV app without needing an Apple TV+ subscription. The subscription is only for Apple's original catalog.
Buying advice and fitting into the ecosystem
If you already have a recent Smart TV and are happy with its performance, you might not need an Apple TV 4K to use Apple TV+: the app is sufficient. However, if your TV is slow, if you're missing apps, or if you want the ultimate in quality and smoothness, the Apple TV 4K is often a lifesaver. The difference in navigation and stability is noticeable, very noticeable..
For those who live within the Apple ecosystem (iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch), the integration of tvOS with Fitness+, Arcade, Home, and AirPlay completes the experience. Adding Apple One simplifies payments and saves you money compared to separate subscriptions. All under the same account, all synchronized and with less friction.
Offers, availability and device purchases
In addition to the 7-day trial and the 3 months included with the purchase of an Apple device, in some countries and authorized distributors there are local promotions: financing plans, renewal programs (trade-in plan) and official technical services with extended warranties. If you buy Apple hardware, ask about these benefits because they can greatly improve your first-time experience..
Keep in mind that the availability of the Apple TV and Apple TV+ apps may vary by country: on Android, for example, the app does not appear in all regions and you have to use the browser; and some "channel" agreements or movie premieres also follow their own schedules. Checking Apple's official website in your country will give you the most up-to-date picture.
The choice between app, device, and subscription boils down to your habits: if you want to consolidate your entertainment and keep things simple, the Apple TV app makes it easy; if you're looking for well-produced original content, Apple TV+ is a good fit; if your TV isn't up to par, the Apple TV 4K takes it to the next level. Knowing about these pieces saves you time, unnecessary subscriptions, and a few headaches..
