Having the Apple TV app does not mean you have an Apple TV subscription. The app is the place to find and watch content; the subscription is one paid service available there. Apple now calls the service “Apple TV”—“Apple TV+” is its familiar former name—and neither the app nor the subscription automatically covers every channel, streaming service, rental, or purchase shown on screen.
Apple TV app vs. Apple TV subscription at a glance
| Question | Apple TV app | Apple TV subscription (formerly Apple TV+) |
|---|---|---|
| What is it? | Software for discovering and watching supported content, including access to Store titles, your Library, channels, and connected services. | A paid streaming service featuring Apple Originals and eligible included sports. |
| Does it cost money? | The app is available on supported devices; some content or services accessed through it cost extra. | Yes, unless you qualify for a trial, bundle, or other offer. Apple’s US page showed $14.99 per month when checked on October 4, 2026. |
| What does it unlock? | It organizes access to content; installing it does not unlock everything displayed. | Apple Originals and subscription content available in your region. |
| What may cost extra? | Separately subscribed channels or services, and Store movies and shows offered to rent or buy. | Third-party subscriptions and Apple Store rentals or purchases. |
| Where can you use it? | Supported Apple devices, smart TVs, streaming devices, gaming consoles, and other platforms listed by Apple. | Through supported app-and-device combinations; features and availability vary by region and device. |
Apple’s product page uses “Apple TV” for the subscription service and “Apple TV app” for the software. If you still see “Apple TV+” in older guides or conversations, it generally refers to this same subscription, not a second service.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
What the subscription includes
The subscription centers on Apple Originals, including series, films, and documentaries. The exact catalog depends on your country and can change. Apple’s US product page also lists Formula 1, Major League Soccer (MLS), and Friday Night Baseball as included at no extra cost with the subscription. That is a US offer, not a promise that the same sports or rights are available everywhere.
MLS changed its subscription arrangement in 2026
Apple announced on November 13, 2025, that every MLS match would be available to Apple TV subscribers beginning with the 2026 season. It said the standalone MLS Season Pass would conclude after the 2025 season. The announcement covered regular-season matches, the Leagues Cup, MLS All-Star Game, Campeones Cup, Audi MLS Cup Playoffs, and other MLS content. See Apple’s MLS announcement for the details. The change means older instructions describing MLS Season Pass as the ongoing separate way to watch should not be treated as current for 2026.
#1 Best Overall
- 4K High Dynamic Range (Dolby Vision and HDR10) for stunning picture quality
- Dolby Digital Plus 7.1 surround sound
- A10X Fusion chip for ultra-fast graphics and performance
- Voice search by asking the Siri Remote
What you may still have to pay for
The Apple TV app can bring different sources together, but a title appearing in the app does not establish that it is included in the Apple TV subscription. Check the title’s own listing for whether it is included, requires a separate subscription, or is available to rent or buy.
- Apple TV channels: These are separately selectable subscriptions that you can access inside the app. They are not automatically part of the Apple TV subscription.
- Third-party streaming apps and services: The app may surface content from connected services, but an Apple TV subscription does not pay for those services.
- Store rentals and purchases: Movies and shows offered for rent or purchase are billed separately. Your Library can show eligible items you already own, but its presence does not mean the subscription paid for them.
Apple Support explains how the app, connected apps, channels, Store, and Library work together. Some devices do not support making purchases or starting subscriptions directly in the app. Depending on the device, you may still be able to watch eligible content obtained elsewhere with the same Apple Account.
Rank #2
- The Google TV Streamer (4K) delivers your favorite entertainment quickly, easily, and personalized to you[1,2]
- HDMI 2.1 cable required (sold separately)
- See movies and TV shows from all your services right from your home screen[2]; and find new things to watch with tailored recommendations for everyone in your home based on their interests and viewing habits
- Watch live TV and access over 800 free channels from Pluto TV, Tubi, and more[3]; if you find an interesting show or movie on your TV, mobile app, or Google search, you can easily add it to your watchlist, so it’s ready when you are[2]
- Up to 4K HDR with Dolby Vision delivers captivating, true-to-life detail[4]; and you can connect speakers that support Dolby Atmos for more immersive 3D sound
How much does Apple TV cost?
Apple’s US page displayed a price of $14.99 per month and a 7-day free trial associated with its 2026 MLS-season offer when checked on October 4, 2026. Prices, promotions, trials, and included content can differ by country and change over time, so check the offer shown for your Apple Account and region before subscribing. Apple’s current US service page is the reference for that US offer.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →An eligible subscription can be shared with up to five other family members through Family Sharing, according to Apple Support’s Family Sharing guide. Apple One bundles the service with other Apple services, but bundle contents and the availability of Apple TV channels vary by region; check the local bundle details rather than assuming a particular lineup.
Rank #3
- HD streaming made simple: With America’s number 1 TV streaming platform,* exploring popular apps—plus tons of free movies, shows, and live TV—is as easy as it is fun. *Based on hours streamed—Hypothesis Group
- Compact without compromises: The sleek design of Roku Streaming Stick won’t block neighboring HDMI ports, and it even powers from your TV alone, plugging into the back and staying out of sight. No wall outlet, no extra cords, no clutter.
- No more juggling remotes: Power up your TV, adjust the volume, and control your Roku device with one remote. Use your voice to quickly search, play entertainment, and more.
- Shows on the go: Take your TV to-go when traveling—without needing to log into someone else’s device.
- TV, simplified: With setup that only takes minutes, a simple-to-navigate Home Screen, and an uncluttered remote control that does all you need—Roku makes it easier to watch the TV you love.
Where you can watch and what varies
Apple lists the app for supported Apple devices as well as smart TVs, streaming devices, and gaming consoles. The service requires a supported combination of app, device, and region. Apple warns that features and content are not available in every country, region, or hardware configuration. Its device and availability information can help confirm whether your setup is supported.
Offline downloads are available through the service on iPhone, iPad, and Mac, as described in Apple’s subscription guide. Do not assume every supported TV or streaming device also supports downloads or transactions in the app.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- Advanced 4K streaming - Elevate your entertainment with the next generation of our best-selling 4K stick, with improved streaming performance optimized for 4K TVs.
- The newest Fire TV experience (2026) – Our biggest update to Fire TV has a new, modern design that gets you to your entertainment fast. Browse dedicated content categories, pin more of your favorite apps, and get personalized recommendations from Alexa+. Spend less time scrolling, and more time watching.
- Cloud gaming, no console required – Stream Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, Hogwarts Legacy, Outer Worlds 2, Ninja Gaiden 4, and hundreds of games on your Fire TV Stick 4K Select with Xbox Game Pass and Luna via cloud gaming. Xbox Game Pass subscription and compatible controller required. Each sold separately.
- Smarter picks with Alexa+ – Getting to what you love has never been easier. Press the voice remote button and talk naturally to find what to watch across your apps, manage your smart home, or dive into virtually any topic.
- Wi-Fi 6 support - Enjoy smooth 4K streaming, even when other devices are connected to your router.
How to tell whether a title is included
- Open the title’s page in the Apple TV app.
- Look for the service or channel named as the source, and read the displayed offer. An Apple TV subscription title should be identified as included; a separate channel, connected app, rental, or purchase has its own access requirement.
- If the app offers no transaction on your device, check the title using a supported Apple device or Apple’s service information, and confirm that you are signed in with the Apple Account that holds the subscription or purchase.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
