Apple TV+ subscription costs $9.99 per month or $99 per year
Apple TV+ is a streaming service run by Apple that shows original shows, movies, and documentaries. The monthly plan costs $9.99 and renews every 30 days. The yearly plan costs $99 and renews every 12 months. Both plans give you the same content and features — the yearly option saves you about $20 compared to paying monthly for 12 months.
You can watch on any device that runs Apple's software (iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV) or on devices that support the Apple TV app, including some Samsung and LG televisions, Roku devices, Amazon Fire TV, and Google Chromecast. You can stream on up to six devices at the same time with one account, though only one person can watch at a time on each device.
Apple offers a free trial period for new subscribers in some cases, though the length and availability of free trials change. You can cancel your subscription at any time through your Apple account settings, and you will keep access until the end of your current billing period.
Key Takeaways
- Apple TV+ costs $9.99 per month or $99 per year, with no difference in content or features between the two plans.
- You can watch on up to six devices at the same time, but only one person can watch per device.
- The service works on iPhones, iPads, Macs, Apple TVs, and many third-party devices including Roku, Fire TV, and some smart televisions.
- You can cancel at any time and keep access through the end of your current billing period.
- Some new subscribers may receive a free trial, though availability and length vary.
What's included with your subscription
Your Apple TV+ subscription gives you access to all original shows and movies Apple has produced or licensed for the service. This includes drama series, comedies, documentaries, sports programming, and films. New content is added regularly, though Apple does not publish a set schedule for releases.
All subscribers get the same library and features regardless of which plan you choose. You can read shows and movies to watch offline on your device, create a watchlist, and resume watching where you left off across devices. The service does not include ads — both the monthly and yearly plans are ad-free.
How to manage your subscription and billing
If you have an Apple ID, you can start an Apple TV+ subscription directly through the Apple TV app or through your Apple account settings. Your subscription will be billed to the payment method linked to your Apple ID. You can change your plan from monthly to yearly (or vice versa) at any time by going to your account settings.
To cancel, open your Apple account settings, find the subscriptions section, select Apple TV+, and choose "Cancel Subscription." Your access continues until the end of your current billing period. If you cancel a monthly subscription mid-month, you will not receive a refund for the unused portion of that month. If you cancel a yearly subscription, you can request a refund within 14 days of purchase, but refunds after that date are not standard.
Family sharing and multiple users
If you use Apple's Family Sharing feature, you can share your Apple TV+ subscription with up to five other family members. Each person gets their own profile and recommendations based on what they watch. Family members can use the subscription on their own devices without needing to share login credentials.
To set up Family Sharing, the subscription owner creates a family group in their Apple account settings and invites family members by email. Once they accept, they can access Apple TV+ on their own devices. Each family member's watch history and recommendations stay separate.
Comparing Apple TV+ to other streaming services
Apple TV+ is one of several subscription streaming services available. Other major services include Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and Max (formerly HBO Max). Each service has different content libraries, pricing, and features. Some services offer ad-supported plans at lower prices, while others charge more for ad-free viewing.
The choice between services depends on what shows and movies matter to you. Apple TV+ focuses on original content rather than a large library of licensed shows, so it has fewer total titles than some competitors but invests heavily in its own productions. Many people subscribe to multiple services to access different content.
Bundling options with other Apple services
Apple offers a bundle called Apple One that combines Apple TV+ with other services like Apple Music (music streaming), Apple Arcade (games), and iCloud+ (cloud storage). The bundle costs less than paying for each service separately. Different bundle tiers include different combinations of services, and pricing varies depending on which services you choose.
If you already pay for Apple Music or iCloud+, bundling may save you money. You can view the available bundles and pricing in your Apple account settings or on Apple's website. Like the standalone subscription, you can cancel an Apple One bundle at any time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I share my Apple TV+ password with someone outside my family?
Apple's terms of service state that your account is for personal use only. Sharing your password with people outside your household may violate these terms. Family Sharing is the intended way to let other people watch with one subscription.
Do I get a refund if I cancel mid-month?
No. Monthly subscriptions are not refunded for unused days. If you cancel a yearly subscription within 14 days of purchase, you may request a refund, but refunds after that window are not may provide.
Can I watch Apple TV+ on my Android phone or non-Apple device?
Yes. The Apple TV app works on many devices including Android phones, Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Google Chromecast, and some Samsung and LG televisions. You can also watch through a web browser on a computer by visiting tv.apple.com.
What happens to my shows if I cancel my subscription?
You lose access to all Apple TV+ content once your subscription ends. Any shows you were watching will no longer be available. Your watchlist and viewing history are saved if you resubscribe later.
Is there a student discount for Apple TV+?
Apple TV+ is included free with an Apple Music student plan, which costs less than Apple Music alone. You must verify your student status through a third-party verification service to may have access to for the student plan.