Apple TV+ is a top-notch streaming service. Until recently, every TV show, every movie, every documentary, and every single program was an original, made by Apple exclusively for this platform. Recent licensing deals have added new movies from Universal Studios, Sony, and others, and users can stream MLB game streams too.
Since its launch on November 1, 2019, this subscription service has gained a significant following, to the tune of roughly 25 million paid subscribers worldwide. But if you're an Android lover, this service might not be your cup of tea as it doesn't pair as well with non-Apple products.
Apple TV+ features
Take a look at this list of impressive features from Apple TV+:
- Extensive original programming
- Live MLB game coverage
- 3 months free service with purchase of a new Apple device
- Can be bundled with other Apple subscription services for a lower price
Apple TV+ product rating: 4.4 stars
Apple TV+ has quite a few things going for it, and even non-Apple people will admit this. It's widely available, has excellent programming, and very reasonable pricing. While it's not technically the cheapest, it does have an incredibly low base price considering there aren't any in-content ads. Other platforms have lower-priced tiers but they include ads.
There's always room for improvement, and Apple has definitely moved towards being more compatible with outside devices. But if you're looking for classic movies, your favourite shows from childhood, or anything other than original content, it's unlikely you'll find them here.
Rating methodology
To calculate our Genius Ratings, we compare the features of the account or product in question with other similar products in Canada. We give each feature a score out of 5 based on that comparison. Once we’ve rated all the features, we run them through our proprietary algorithm to produce a final rating out of 5.
Learn more about our rating methodology.
The pros of Apple TV+
There's plenty to love about Apple TV+ – here are a few examples:
Very reasonable pricing
As you'll see in the comparison table below, Apple TV+ doesn't technically have the lowest price – but it does have the lowest price for a subscription without ads. The $12.99/month price tag is pretty sweet, but if you have other subscription services from Apple (like Apple Music or iCloud+) and want to bundle them together, you can get an even better deal.
Lengthy trial with new Apple device purchases
Pick up a new iPhone, iPad, Apple TV+, or Mac computer and you're eligible for 3 months of free streaming with Apple TV+. That's a value of nearly $40 and extremely convenient, especially since you can share your account with up to 5 family members. You can also download any content you like to watch offline whenever you like during this free period.
Excellent exclusive programming
With adventure movies, crime thriller shows, heartwarming comedies, true crime documentaries, and more, even the most discerning viewer will find something to enjoy. Apple's original content has received multiple awards and nominations from the Critics Choice Real TV Awards, the Emmys, and even the Academy Awards.
Live MLB streaming
Major League Baseball is essentially the only non-original content you can watch via Apple TV+. Your subscription allows you to watch Friday night baseball live or enjoy the replay later. There are also pregame talk shows, daily recaps, highlight reels (old and new games), and more. It's only one sport, but there's a lot of it.
The cons of Apple TV+
There's always room for improvement, and here's what we think Apple TV+ could work on:
Lack of subscription term options
Yes, the monthly price tag is low, but many other streaming services offer an option for annual subscription too – and it's usually a bit cheaper. For example, Crave charges $22 per month for a Premium subscription or $220 for the year, which gives you two months for free.
Comparatively small content collection
It's hard to say exactly how many titles are in the Apple TV+ library, but it's significantly less than its competitors offer. This is, in large part, due to Apple TV+'s commitment to original content (at least until its recent addition of a few licensed movies), and price comparisons show that Apple's fees reflect its smaller collection. Still, we'd like more.
Tricky to stream to Chromecast
Smart TVs are very common now, but if you prefer to use Google Chromecast to cast from your phone or device, you'll be disappointed with Apple TV+. The Apple TV+ app isn't compatible with Chromecast at all, but you can open your show or movie in the Google Chrome browser and cast it from there. Compatibility is a common issue with Apple products, so do a bit of homework before taking the plunge with this service.
Apple TV+ alternatives
If you're wondering how Apple TV+ stacks up against other streaming services, here's a side-by-side comparison:
| Account | Apple TV+ | Netflix | Amazon Prime Video | Crave |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Genius Rating | ||||
| Why You Want It | Get a 7-day free trial + Bundle with other Apple services for savings. | Access a huge selection of entertainment + Set up multiple profiles. | Access original content and news + Get free shipping and Amazon Music. | Access a large entertainment library + Pick from various pricing tiers. |
| Min Monthly Fee | N/A | $7.99 | $4.99 | $11.99 |
| Max Monthly Fee | $12.99 | $23.99 | $9.99 | $22 |
| Ads In Min Monthly Fee | ||||
| Watch On Smart TVs | ||||
| Watch On Phones/Tablets | ||||
Show More | ||||
| Apply Now See more Apple products Compare | Learn More See more Netflix products Compare | Learn More See more Amazon products Compare | Learn More See more Crave products Compare |
FAQ
What is Apple TV streaming?
Apple TV+ is Apple's streaming service that can be accessed through the web or with an app on any number of Apple and Android devices. It mostly consists of originally programming but many genres of movies and TV shows are available.
How much is Apple TV+ in Canada?
A monthly ad-free subscription to Apple TV+ is a $12.99, and while this is a very reasonable price, it's frustrating that it's your only option. Unfortunately, there aren't any annual or other subscription terms available.
Which are the best shows on Apple TV+?
The best shows include The Morning Show, Shrinking, Silo, and Ted Lasso. Top movies include Artylle, Killers of the Flower Moon, and Coda. In the documentary category, The Last of the Sea Women, Downwind, and Still are very highly rated.
Can I stream Apple TV+ to my Chromecast?
You can stream/cast via Chromecast, but it's not as easy as doing it with other streaming platforms. You may have to open your show or movie in a Chrome browser and cast the entire window.
What's the difference between Apple TV and Apple TV+?
These terms are often used interchangeably and it can get confusing. Apple TV is a physical device that connects to your TV and provides access to various features and streaming services, while Apple TV+ is itself a streaming subscription service.
Editorial Disclaimer: The content here reflects the author's opinion alone, and is not endorsed or sponsored by a bank, credit card issuer, rewards program or other entity. For complete and updated product information please visit the product issuer's website.
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