Signing up for Apple TV Plus is the first step to streaming award-winning originals across your favorite Apple devices and select smart TVs. This guide walks you through key options, what to expect, and how to manage your subscription from the start.
Below is a quick reference that compares the main paths, costs, and requirements for getting started with Apple TV Plus.
| Sign-up method | Where to access | Free trials | Monthly cost (US) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apple TV app or Apple TV device | iOS, iPadOS, macOS, Apple TV, select Samsung and Roku TVs | 7-day trial available | $6.99 with Annual Apple One plan |
| Web browser on tv.apple.com | tv.apple.com on any modern browser | 7-day trial available | $6.99 monthly |
| Mobile carrier bundles | Through your carrier account or app | Varies by carrier | Often included or discounted |
| Apple One bundle | Any Apple device or appleone.com | Shared across plans | From $16.95 for Individual with TV Plus |
Getting started in the Apple TV app
The Apple TV app is the most direct way to sign up and watch across your devices. It provides a consistent, simple flow whether you are on an iPhone, iPad, Mac, or Apple TV hardware.
Inside the app, you can manage existing subscriptions, switch plans, and take advantage of introductory offers. Because the app ties into your Apple ID, billing and renewals are handled through your existing account methods.
If you prefer using a larger screen or a web browser, you can also start at tv.apple.com from any modern browser and create or manage your subscription there with the same Apple ID.
Choosing a device and account setup
Your Apple ID is central to signing up for Apple TV Plus, since it stores payment info, viewing progress, and family sharing settings. Make sure you are signed in with the correct Apple ID before you start the purchase.
On iPhone and iPad, use the TV app. On Mac, open the TV app or a browser. On Apple TV 4K or HD, use the remote to navigate to the Apple TV Plus channel or the App Store page. Each path leads to the same subscription options governed by your Apple ID.
Consider setting up Family Sharing if multiple people in your household will watch. Up to six family members can use your Apple TV Plus subscription once sharing is enabled, without each person needing a separate payment method.
Understanding pricing and plans
Apple TV Plus is priced at $6.99 per month when purchased alone, with the option to save by bundling into an Apple One plan. Annual plans typically offer the best value, effectively lowering the monthly cost.
Billing cycles begin when you confirm payment. You can cancel at any time, and you will continue watching until the end of your current billing period. Introductory pricing may apply for new Apple TV Plus customers, and terms vary by region.
Supported platforms and smart TV access
Apple TV Plus runs on a wide range of devices, including recent iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Apple Watch, Apple TV, AirPods with support, select Samsung and Roku smart TVs, and web browsers on computers.
If you use a smart TV that supports the TV app, look for the Apple TV Plus app in the TV app store or the channel store of your TV platform. Sign in with your Apple ID on the TV to link the subscription and start playing in seconds.
Key steps and recommendations
- Sign in with the correct Apple ID that you want to manage the subscription under.
- Start in the Apple TV app or at tv.apple.com to see current offers and begin your 7-day trial.
- Compare monthly versus annual pricing, including Apple One bundles, to find the best value.
- Set up Family Sharing if you want trusted family members to watch at no extra cost.
- Confirm supported devices and smart TV availability before signing up to avoid surprises.
- Check regional availability and note renewal dates so you control when to cancel or change plans.
FAQ
Reader questions
Can I start with a free trial and switch to annual billing later?
Yes, you can begin with the 7-day free trial, and once the trial ends you can choose monthly or annual billing during the renewal process in your Apple ID settings or the TV app.
What happens if my payment method fails during renewal?
Apple will attempt to charge your saved payment method at renewal and may send a notification to update your card details; your subscription status will change based on payment success or failure.
Can I share Apple TV Plus with non-family members?
Apple TV Plus supports Family Sharing for up to six family members; sharing outside your family group requires each person to have their own subscription under their Apple ID.
How do I cancel my Apple TV Plus subscription on a smart TV?
Manage cancellations through your Apple ID settings on appleid.apple.com or in your device Settings; canceling on the TV typically removes access at the end of the billing cycle.