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Entertainment & Media

Beginner

2 min read 5 stepsApril 16, 2026Verified April 2026

How to Set Up the Apple TV App

Use the Apple TV app to watch Apple TV+ originals, rent movies, and access your streaming services in one place.

At a Glance

Find the Apple TV app on your device

~19s

On iPhone or iPad, the Apple TV app comes pre-installed — look for the black and white TV icon. On a Samsung, LG, or Vizio smart TV, go to the app store on your TV and search for "Apple TV." It is also built into Roku, Fire TV, and Apple TV devices.

Sign in with your Apple ID

~15s

Open the app and sign in with your Apple ID (the email and password you use for the App Store). If you do not have an Apple ID, you can create one for free at appleid.apple.com.

Subscribe to Apple TV+ for original content

~16s

Tap "Apple TV+" in the app to see original shows and movies. Tap "Subscribe" to start a subscription — it costs around $10 per month and includes a free trial for new subscribers. Many Apple devices come with a complimentary trial period as well.

Browse and watch

~15s

The "Watch Now" tab shows recommendations and content from your connected streaming apps. The "Apple TV+" tab shows only Apple originals. Tap any title and select "Play" to start watching.

Rent or buy movies

~15s

Tap the "Store" tab to browse movies available to rent or buy. Rental prices are typically around $4 to $6 and give you 30 days to start watching and 48 hours to finish once you press play. Purchased movies stay in your library permanently.

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The Apple TV app is both a streaming service and a hub that brings together content from multiple streaming apps in one place. It comes free on all iPhones and iPads and is available on many smart TVs. Apple TV+ is Apple's subscription service with original shows and movies, while the TV app itself also lets you rent or buy other movies.

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How to Set Up the Apple TV App — Step-by-Step Guide | TekSure