Apple TV+ Subscription: Is It Worth It?
Is an Apple TV+ subscription worth your money? With so many streaming services available, it's normal to wonder if Apple TV+ is a good fit. This guide will help you decide. We'll explore the costs, content, features, and pros and cons so you can make the right choice.
What is Apple TV+?
Apple TV+ is Apple's streaming service. It offers original TV shows and movies. Unlike some other services, Apple TV+ focuses almost entirely on its own productions, meaning you won't find a lot of licensed content. It aims to provide high-quality, exclusive shows and films. The service is accessible through the Apple TV app, which is available on Apple devices and some smart TVs, as well as through a web browser.
Cost of Apple TV+
The cost of Apple TV+ is a key consideration. As of 2024, the monthly subscription price is $9.99 in the United States. This price can vary slightly based on your region or any bundled deals. Apple often offers promotions such as a free trial for new subscribers, or it might be included as part of an Apple One subscription.
Ways to Save on Apple TV+
- Apple One Bundle: Consider the Apple One bundle, which combines Apple TV+ with other Apple services like Apple Music, Apple Arcade, and iCloud storage.
- Student Discount: Students with an Apple Music student subscription sometimes get Apple TV+ included.
- Family Sharing: You can share your Apple TV+ subscription with up to five family members.
What to Watch on Apple TV+
Apple TV+ has a more limited library compared to giants like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, its strength lies in the quality and uniqueness of its content. Here are some popular shows:
- Ted Lasso: A feel-good comedy about an American football coach managing a British soccer team.
- Severance: A thriller about employees who have surgically divided their memories between their work and personal lives.
- The Morning Show: A drama offering a look behind the scenes of a network morning news show.
Types of Content Available
Apple TV+ includes dramas, comedies, documentaries, and kids' shows. They've started investing more in movies and family content to broaden their appeal.
Pros and Cons of Apple TV+
To make a well-informed decision, here are some of the pros and cons of subscribing to Apple TV+:
Pros
- High-Quality Originals: Award-winning series and movies.
- Ad-Free Streaming: Enjoy content without interruptions.
- 4K HDR Streaming: Get excellent video quality if you have a compatible device.
- Family Sharing: Share your subscription with family members.
Cons
- Limited Library: Fewer choices compared to other streaming services.
- Focus on Originals: If you prefer a mix of licensed and original content, this may not be the service for you.
- Apple Ecosystem: Best experienced within the Apple ecosystem, though accessible on other devices.
How to Subscribe to Apple TV+
Subscribing to Apple TV+ is straightforward:
- Via Apple Device: Open the Apple TV app on your iPhone, iPad, or Apple TV.
- Through a Browser: Go to the Apple TV+ website.
- Sign Up: Follow the prompts to create an account or sign in with your Apple ID.
- Choose a Plan: Select your subscription plan and enter your payment information.
Is Apple TV+ Worth It? – Final Verdict
Whether Apple TV+ is worth it depends on your priorities. If you value high-quality, original content and don't mind a smaller library, it can be a great choice, especially if you are already in the Apple ecosystem. However, if you want a broader range of content, including older TV shows and movies, you might want to consider other streaming services.
Call to Action: Consider signing up for a free trial to see if Apple TV+ meets your entertainment needs. Explore their original content and decide if the quality and exclusivity justify the subscription cost.