Introduction

Apple’s ecosystem is renowned for its innovative technology and sleek design, yet its naming conventions can sometimes be confusing. Two products that often get mixed up are Apple TV and Apple TV+. Although their names are similar, they serve very different purposes in your entertainment experience.

In this article, we break down what each product is, how they differ, and how they can even complement one another.

Understanding Apple TV

Apple TV refers to both a hardware device and a broader digital media ecosystem:

• The Device: Apple TV is a streaming box (available in models like the Apple TV 4K and Apple TV HD) that connects to your television via an HDMI cable. It transforms any TV into a smart entertainment hub.
• Versatile Streaming Hub: The device isn’t limited to one source of content. It supports a wide range of apps and streaming services—such as Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, and more—providing access to your purchased or rented movies, games, and other media.
• Enhanced Features: With capabilities like 4K HDR, Dolby Atmos sound, and Siri voice control, Apple TV offers a premium viewing experience. It also functions as a central app (the Apple TV app) that aggregates your entertainment library in one place.

What is Apple TV+?

In contrast, Apple TV+ is Apple’s subscription-based streaming service that focuses on original content:

• Exclusive Originals: Launched in 2019, Apple TV+ is dedicated solely to Apple’s original movies, documentaries, and series. Popular titles such as Ted Lasso, The Morning Show, and Severance have helped the service carve out a niche in the competitive streaming market.
• Subscription Service: Apple TV+ operates on a monthly subscription model—currently priced at $9.99 per month—with a promise of an ad-free viewing experience. Free trial periods are often available when purchasing a new Apple device or through promotional partnerships.
• Device Agnostic: Although the service is called Apple TV+, you don’t need an Apple TV device to enjoy its content. It’s accessible via the Apple TV app on various devices including iPhones, iPads, Macs, smart TVs, and even select streaming devices.

Key Differences

While both products share the “Apple TV” name, here are the core differences:

• Purpose:
  • Apple TV (Device): A physical media player that provides a platform for multiple streaming services and apps.
  • Apple TV+ (Service): A streaming platform focused on original content produced by Apple.
• Functionality:
  • Apple TV: Acts as a central hub for your entire digital entertainment library, integrating third-party streaming services along with your personal media purchases.
  • Apple TV+: Offers a curated selection of exclusive, ad-free original shows and films.
• Accessibility:
  • Apple TV: Requires a physical device for enhanced streaming capabilities, though its interface (the Apple TV app) is available on various devices.
  • Apple TV+: Can be accessed without the need for an Apple TV device, as it is available on most devices that support the Apple TV app.
• Content:
  • Apple TV: Provides access to content from multiple streaming providers.
  • Apple TV+: Hosts a growing library of original programming produced in-house by Apple.

How They Complement Each Other

Even though Apple TV and Apple TV+ are distinct products, they work seamlessly together within the Apple ecosystem. For instance:

• Unified Experience: The Apple TV device comes preloaded with the Apple TV app, which not only offers a single place to view content from various streaming platforms but also highlights Apple TV+ originals.
• Smart Bundling: With subscriptions like Apple One, users can bundle Apple TV+ with other Apple services, enhancing both value and convenience.
• Flexible Viewing: You can enjoy your favorite Apple TV+ shows on an Apple TV device for a high-end viewing experience, or simply stream them on your smartphone or smart TV using the Apple TV app.

FAQs For What is the Difference Between Apple TV and Apple TV+?

Q1: What exactly is Apple TV?
A: Apple TV is a digital media player—a physical device that connects to your television to stream content from various apps, including the Apple TV app, Netflix, Hulu, and more.

Q2: What is Apple TV+?
A: Apple TV+ is a subscription-based streaming service that offers exclusively original content produced by Apple. It provides ad-free movies, documentaries, and series.

Q3: Do I need an Apple TV device to watch Apple TV+?
A: No. While an Apple TV device offers an enhanced viewing experience, Apple TV+ can be accessed via the Apple TV app on many devices such as iPhones, iPads, smart TVs, and even some non-Apple streaming devices.

Q4: Can I use the Apple TV app without subscribing to Apple TV+?
A: Yes. The Apple TV app aggregates content from various sources, including purchased, rented, and subscribed content. You can use it to manage and watch content from multiple providers without having an Apple TV+ subscription.

Q5: Are there any free trial offers for Apple TV+?
A: Apple often offers a free trial for Apple TV+—typically a seven-day trial for new subscribers and sometimes extended trials (up to three months) when purchasing a new Apple device.

Conclusion

In summary, while Apple TV and Apple TV+ share similar names, they serve different functions in Apple’s ecosystem. Apple TV is a versatile streaming device that consolidates various content sources into one user-friendly interface, while Apple TV+ is a streaming service dedicated to delivering high-quality, original content directly to your screens. Understanding these differences can help you make informed decisions about which product or service best fits your entertainment needs.

Whether you’re a tech enthusiast looking for a premium streaming device or a viewer eager for exclusive original programming, Apple offers solutions designed to elevate your viewing experience.