
Have you recently purchased a new Apple device? You may be entitled to compensation in the form of a 3-month Apple TV+ trial - for free!
All jokes aside, if you've bought a new iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, or Mac recently from Apple or an authorized Apple reseller, you likely qualify for a free 3-month trial of Apple TV+. However, this offer won't be available if you or your family have previously accepted a free offer for Apple TV+. Be sure to cancel your trial before it ends; otherwise you'll be charged $9.99 per month. Note that if you do cancel your trial early, you'll also lose access immediately and won't be able to reactivate your trial. Shop Now at Apple TV

Check out one of the most premium streaming services available these days and get seven whole days to binge titles like Disclaimer, Silo, The Morning Show, Severance, and so much more. If you aren't sold, be sure to cancel before the trial is up - otherwise you'll be charged $9.99 per month to keep it. Shop Now at Apple TV
Thinking about adding another streaming service to your lineup? You might be curious about Apple TV Plus. Launched back in 2019, it's Apple's own subscription streaming platform, packed exclusively with Apple Originals. This means you won't find a massive back catalog of older shows or movies from other studios here. Instead, Apple focuses on producing its own high-quality, often star-studded and critically acclaimed series, films, and documentaries. Think award-winners like the heartwarming comedy Ted Lasso, the mind-bending thriller Severance, the gripping drama The Morning Show, and the Oscar-winning film CODA.
Now, it's easy to get Apple TV Plus confused with the Apple TV hardware – that little black box you plug into your television. To clear things up: Apple TV is the physical device, while Apple TV Plus is the streaming service you subscribe to. You actually watch Apple TV Plus content through the Apple TV app, which conveniently comes pre-installed on iPhones, iPads, and Macs, and is also available on most popular smart TVs, streaming sticks (like Roku and Fire TV), and gaming consoles. Big pluses? It’s entirely ad-free and most content streams in stunning 4K HDR with immersive sound options.
So, is Apple TV Plus worth adding to your streaming rotation? With a growing library of exclusive originals featuring big names and compelling stories, it definitely offers a unique flavor compared to services heavy on licensed content. But how much does it cost, and are there ways to watch without paying full price? Let's break down the pricing, free trials, bundles, and other savings opportunities – because finding the best deal is what DealNews is all about!
Okay, let's dive into the costs of Apple TV Plus! Here's the information broken down into the sections you requested.
This Year's Subscription Pricing
So, you're ready to jump into the world of Apple Originals? Fantastic choice! Let's take a look at the different ways you can subscribe to Apple TV Plus and what they'll cost you this year. Whether you're just dipping your toes in or want the full Apple ecosystem experience, there's likely a plan that fits your needs and budget.
|
Plan |
Price |
Description |
|---|---|---|
|
Apple TV Plus (Monthly) |
$9.99 |
Access the full Apple TV Plus library of original shows and movies. |
|
Apple TV Plus (Annual) |
$99.99/year |
A yearly subscription offering a slight discount compared to paying monthly. |
|
Apple One |
From $19.95/mo. |
Bundles Apple TV Plus with other services like Apple Music and iCloud storage. |
|
Apple Music Student Plan |
$5.99/mo. |
College students get discounted Apple Music and Apple TV Plus. |
As you can see, the standard monthly plan for Apple TV Plus is a straightforward $9.99, which is pretty competitive in the streaming landscape. If you're planning on sticking around for the long haul, the annual plan shaves off a little bit of the cost, bringing your monthly average down slightly.
For those already invested in the Apple ecosystem, the Apple One bundle can be a seriously good deal, giving you access to multiple services for a single monthly price. And students, don't forget to take advantage of that sweet Apple Music Student plan – free Apple TV Plus is definitely a perk worth grabbing!
Pricing in Previous Years
Apple TV Plus's pricing journey has been interesting to watch. When it first launched, it came in at a very attractive price point, and as the service has grown and added more content, we've seen some adjustments. To give you a clearer view, here's a breakdown of the pricing trends over the past few years, including the monthly plan, the introduction of the annual plan, and the Apple One bundle, along with some thoughts on why these shifts might have occurred.
|
Year |
Monthly Price |
Annual Price |
Apple One |
Information |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
2021 |
$4.99 |
N/A |
N/A |
Initial launch price to attract subscribers |
|
2022 |
$4.99 |
N/A |
N/A |
Maintained the initial price while the content library grew |
|
2023 |
$6.99 |
N/A |
N/A |
First price increase for expanded library and production values |
|
2024 |
$9.99 |
$99.99 |
From $19.95 |
Introduction of annual plan and Apple One bundle |
As you can see, the initial years of Apple TV Plus were all about attracting subscribers with a lower price while building up their content library. The introduction of the annual plan in 2024 gave viewers a way to save a bit if they committed for the year, and the arrival of Apple One bundles offered even more value for those already using other Apple services.
These price increases generally reflect the streaming landscape as a whole. Creating high-quality, original content isn't cheap! As Apple TV Plus has invested heavily in award-winning shows and blockbuster movies, it's natural to see some price adjustments to support that ongoing investment and keep the content pipeline flowing. Even with these increases, Apple TV Plus still positions itself as a pretty competitive option, especially when you consider the ad-free experience and the quality of their programming.
Subscription Package Differences
Choosing the right Apple TV Plus subscription really depends on your individual needs and how deeply you're already embedded in the Apple world. Let's break down the key differences between the main options to help you decide.
Apple TV Plus
The most basic option is the standalone Apple TV Plus subscription. This is perfect if you're solely interested in their original video content and don't need or want any other Apple services. For just under ten bucks a month (or even less if you go annual!), you unlock everything Apple TV Plus has to offer, from award-winning dramas to family-friendly films. It’s a simple, no-frills way to enjoy their growing library.
Apple One
However, if you're already using other Apple services like Apple Music, Apple Arcade for games, or iCloud for storage, then the Apple One bundle starts to look incredibly appealing. Think of it as a "buy in bulk" discount for Apple services. Instead of paying for each service individually, you get a package deal that can save you a significant amount each month.
There are different tiers of Apple One, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs – whether you're an individual user or have a whole family to cover. It's definitely worth exploring if you're looking to maximize your Apple subscriptions.
Apple Music Student Plan
Finally, for students out there, the Apple Music Student Plan is a hidden gem. For the price of a regular Apple Music subscription (or even less!), you get Apple Music and Apple TV Plus thrown in. It's an unbeatable deal if you're a student who loves music and wants to catch up on shows like "Ted Lasso" or "Severance" without breaking the bank. Just make sure you're a verified student to take advantage of this offer!
What to Watch on Apple TV This Year
Apple TV Plus has really become a streaming destination for quality over quantity, and 2025 is shaping up to be another strong year for must-see content. Whether you're in the mood for gripping dramas, laugh-out-loud comedies, or mind-bending sci-fi, there's a good chance Apple TV Plus has something to add to your watchlist. With a focus on original programming and star-studded casts, it can be tough to know where to begin, so here are some of the most talked-about and highly-rated shows and movies to check out this year:
- Severance: The mind-bending thriller about work-life balance taken to the extreme is back for a second season.
- Mythic Quest: This workplace comedy set in a video game studio delivers surprisingly heartfelt moments in its fourth season.
- Slow Horses: If you like spy thrillers with a dose of dark humor, this series about MI5 misfits is a must-watch.
- For All Mankind: Explore an alternate history where the space race never ended in this epic sci-fi drama.
- Shrinking: This comedy starring Jason Segel and Harrison Ford offers a funny and poignant look at grief and therapy.
- Bad Sisters: This darkly comedic thriller follows a group of Irish sisters, with a murder mystery at its heart.
- Lessons in Chemistry: Brie Larson stars as a chemist turned TV cook in 1950s America, challenging societal norms.
- Monarch: Legacy of Monsters: Explore the MonsterVerse and the secrets of the organization tracking Godzilla and other titans.
- Ted Lasso: The feel-good comedy returns to continue the story of the relentlessly optimistic football coach and his team.
- The Studio: A satire of Hollywood, starring Seth Rogen as a studio executive navigating the chaos of filmmaking.
- Dope Thief: A gritty crime drama set in Philadelphia, following two friends who get in over their heads posing as DEA agents.
Beyond this list, Apple TV Plus boasts a diverse catalog that caters to various tastes. For those who appreciate historical dramas, Pachinko offers a sweeping, multi-generational saga of a Korean family in Japan, earning critical acclaim for its beautiful storytelling and performances. If you're looking for something lighter, Loot starring Maya Rudolph provides laughs with its story of a billionaire divorcée finding purpose in her charitable foundation. And for fans of true crime, Black Bird, a limited series based on a true story, delivers a tense and compelling narrative with standout performances from Taron Egerton and Paul Walter Hauser.
Apple TV Plus also isn't afraid to push boundaries with unique and thought-provoking series. Severance, for instance, explores the unsettling concept of surgically separating work and personal lives, creating a truly original and unsettling viewing experience. On the documentary front, STEVE! (martin) A Documentary in 2 Pieces offers an intimate and insightful look into the life and career of comedy legend Steve Martin. And for family-friendly content, Stillwater provides gentle and heartwarming stories with valuable life lessons for younger viewers. With such a wide range of options, there's plenty to discover and enjoy on Apple TV Plus this year.
New Releases to Keep in Mind
Looking ahead, Apple TV Plus has some exciting new releases slated for 2025 that are already generating buzz. Keep an eye out for these upcoming titles as you plan your viewing schedule.
For those eagerly anticipating new content, The Gorge, which premiered on February 14th, is a film described as a mystery with a dose of romance, starring Miles Teller and Anya Taylor-Joy. The Studio, a comedy series starring Seth Rogen that satirizes the world of Hollywood filmmaking, debuted in late March. Also in March, fans of Mythic Quest can delve deeper into that universe with Side Quest, an anthology comedy series that explores the lives of those connected to the game. April brings Government Cheese, a surrealist comedy starring David Oyelowo, promising a quirky and unique family story set in the 1960s.
Later in the year, though dates are still to be announced, several highly anticipated series are expected to arrive. Sci-fi fans should be excited for Murderbot, based on the acclaimed novels and starring Alexander Skarsgård as a sentient robot, and Neuromancer, an adaptation of William Gibson's cyberpunk classic.
For those who enjoy historical dramas, Chief of War, starring Jason Momoa, is on the horizon, and espionage enthusiasts can look forward to more from Slow Horses with its fifth season. With this mix of returning favorites and intriguing new titles, 2025 promises to be another year packed with compelling content on Apple TV Plus.
How to Save the Most on Apple TV Plus
OK, so you're ready to become an Apple TV Plus streamer but want to make sure you're getting the best bang for your buck? Smart move! Luckily, there are several ways to potentially save on your Apple TV Plus subscription, and we're going to break down all the current options to help you minimize your entertainment expenses.
7-Day Free Trial
The most basic way to try before you buy is the standard Apple TV Plus 7-day free trial. This is a straightforward offer for new subscribers. Simply sign up through the Apple TV app or website, and you'll get a week to explore the content library completely free. Just remember to cancel before the seven days are up if you don't want to continue with a paid subscription.
Up to 3 Months Free with Apple Device Purchase
Thinking of upgrading your iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, or Mac? Purchasing an eligible new Apple device often comes with a bonus: a free Apple TV Plus subscription for up to three months. Once you set up your new gadget, simply open the Apple TV app to redeem the offer and enjoy complimentary streaming for a quarter of a year.
Limited-Time Promotions
Keep your eyes peeled for special deals! Apple TV Plus, while not known for frequent discounts, does occasionally offer limited-time promotions. For example, they offered a whopping 70% off for the first three months in April 2025, bringing the monthly cost down to just $2.99. These deals don't last forever, so staying alert for announcements can pay off with significant short-term savings.
Consider an Annual Subscription
If you're committed to Apple TV Plus for the long haul, opting for an annual subscription can save you a bit compared to paying monthly. While the monthly cost is $9.99, an annual plan is priced at $99.99, effectively giving you a small discount over the year.
Bundle with Apple One
If you're already using other Apple services, bundling them together with Apple One can be a cost-effective strategy. Apple One packages Apple TV Plus with services like Apple Music, Apple Arcade, and iCloud storage, often at a lower combined price than subscribing to each service individually. Plus, Apple frequently offers a free one-month trial of Apple One, giving you a chance to test out the whole bundle, including Apple TV Plus, without any upfront cost.
Free Apple TV Plus With T-Mobile Go5G
Are you a T-Mobile customer? Depending on your Go5G plan, you might already have access to Apple TV Plus at no extra cost! Subscribers on Go5G Next and Go5G Plus plans often get Apple TV Plus included as a perk for as long as they maintain their plan. Even standard Go5G plans sometimes offer a shorter free period, like six months. Check your T-Mobile plan details to see if you can unlock free Apple TV Plus.
Apple One Savings From Verizon
Verizon users on the Unlimited Ultimate plan can also find savings through bundling. Verizon offers a discount when you add the Apple One bundle to your Unlimited Ultimate plan. This can be a great way to access Apple TV Plus, along with other Apple services, while potentially lowering your overall monthly bill if you were already planning on subscribing to some of those services individually.
Student Discount via Apple Music Student Plan
Students, listen up! If you're enrolled in a college or university and subscribe to the Apple Music Student Plan, you get Apple TV Plus included for free! This plan gives you discounted access to Apple Music and throws in Apple TV Plus as a bonus, making it a fantastic deal for students looking for both music and video entertainment on a budget.
It's worth noting that, while Apple does in fact offer a military discount, it is reserved for devices and select accessories — not online services or streaming.
Explore Best Buy Promotions
Keep an eye on retailers like Best Buy for potential Apple TV Plus promotions. From time to time, Best Buy offers deals where you can score a free trial of Apple TV Plus, sometimes for as long as three months, even without purchasing anything else. These deals often come in the form of digital codes that you can redeem when signing up for Apple TV Plus.
By exploring these various avenues, you can significantly reduce or even eliminate the cost of your Apple TV Plus subscription, leaving you more money in your pocket to enjoy all the great content it offers.
Need to Cancel Apple TV Plus? Here's How
Ready to say goodbye to Apple TV Plus, at least for now? No problem. Canceling your subscription is generally a quick and easy process, though the exact steps can vary slightly depending on where you originally signed up. Here's a clear guide on how to cancel your Apple TV Plus subscription and stop future charges, with details for different devices:
- Navigate to Account Settings: Start by going to the Apple TV Plus website (tv.apple.com), or access Settings on your iPhone, iPad, or Apple TV. Alternatively, you can open the Apple Music app or Apple TV app on a Windows PC.
- Access Account Options: Click the account icon or your name on Apple devices. On Apple TV, select Users and Accounts, then your user name. On a Windows PC, click your name at the bottom sidebar, then View My Account.
- Locate Subscriptions Management: Scroll to Subscriptions (and select Manage if that's an option). In your list of subscriptions, find and select Apple TV Plus (or your Apple One bundle if applicable).
- Initiate Cancellation: Look for a button or link labeled "Cancel Subscription" and select it. You may need to scroll to find it.
- Confirm Cancellation: Follow any on-screen prompts to confirm that you want to cancel your subscription.
After completing these steps to cancel, remember you will usually still have access to Apple TV Plus until the end of your current billing period. If you cancelled during a free trial, your access might stop immediately. Should you decide to resubscribe to Apple TV Plus in the future, it's a simple process to start enjoying their content again.
Apple TV FAQs and Terms to Know
To make sure everyone in your household can enjoy Apple TV Plus, the service supports Family Sharing, allowing you to share your subscription with up to five family members. This means everyone gets their own personalized viewing experience, watch history, and recommendations, all under one subscription.
It's also good to remember the content usage rules: Apple TV Plus is intended for personal, non-commercial use, and there are limits on simultaneous streaming (usually up to three devices for most channels) and downloads. While most purchased content should remain available, Apple does note that content can be removed due to licensing agreements, so downloading and backing up your purchases is always a good idea for long-term access. For those who are curious about the nitty-gritty details, Apple's official "Apple Media Services Terms and Conditions" document is the ultimate source of truth, covering everything from payment and refunds to account usage and service limitations. You can find the full legal terms here.
One of the most common questions revolves around content availability and potential service disruptions. While Apple aims for a seamless experience, it's worth noting that they don't guarantee uninterrupted or error-free service. Services can be modified, suspended, or even discontinued, though Apple will try to provide notice when possible. Also, content availability can vary by region, and some titles might not be accessible when you travel outside your home country. It's also important to understand that Apple disclaims warranties and limits liability to the extent permitted by law – standard practice for digital services, but good to be aware of. For specific troubleshooting or if you run into any issues, Apple's dedicated support resources are your best bet.
For more detailed answers to frequently asked questions, or for help with specific issues, Apple has a comprehensive support section for Apple TV, including a helpful user guide. Whether you need assistance with setting up your Apple TV, managing your subscription, or troubleshooting playback problems, their support resources are readily available. Taking a quick look at these resources can often resolve common queries and ensure you have a great time streaming Apple's premium content.