Apple TV has become a popular streaming service offering original shows, movies, and access to a wide variety of content. Whether you are a fan of exclusive series like Ted Lasso or love renting or purchasing movies, Apple TV is a must-have. But what devices can you stream Apple TV on? In this article, we’ll explore all the devices that support Apple TV, how to access it, and what makes each platform unique.
What Is Apple TV?
Before diving into the devices that support Apple TV, let’s first clarify what Apple TV actually is.
Apple TV is Apple’s streaming service, part of the larger Apple ecosystem. Launched in November 2019, it offers a mix of original content (referred to as Apple TV+), movies, TV shows, and subscriptions to third-party apps like HBO, Showtime, and more. You can rent, buy, and stream thousands of shows and movies.
You don’t need an Apple device to enjoy Apple TV; it’s compatible with many types of hardware and operating systems.
Apple TV vs. Apple TV App vs. Apple TV Device
Many people confuse the terms Apple TV, Apple TV App, and the physical Apple TV box. Here’s the difference:
- Apple TV: The streaming service itself.
- Apple TV App: The app that allows you to access the Apple TV service, including Apple TV+ and your purchased content.
- Apple TV Device: The physical streaming box that connects to your TV.
Now, let’s explore the various devices that allow you to stream Apple TV.
1. Apple Devices
iPhone
If you own an iPhone, you’re already set to stream Apple TV. All iPhones running iOS 12.3 or later come with the Apple TV app pre-installed. With this, you can watch Apple TV+ content, purchase movies, and access your subscriptions right from your phone.
The Apple TV app integrates with other apps on your iPhone, making it easy to continue watching content across different devices. You can even download Apple TV+ content for offline viewing.
iPad
Similar to iPhone, the Apple TV app comes pre-installed on iPads running iPadOS 12.3 or later. The larger screen makes watching movies and shows even more immersive. You can also connect your iPad to larger displays using AirPlay if you want to stream on a bigger screen.
One of the benefits of using an iPad is the portability—watch your favorite shows anywhere, even when traveling.
Mac
For those using Mac computers, the Apple TV app is available through macOS Catalina and later. You can find it in your Applications folder, and it works similarly to the iPhone and iPad versions.
With the Mac’s larger screen, watching shows is much more enjoyable, especially if you own a Retina Display. Just like with other Apple devices, you can download content for offline viewing.
Apple TV Box
If you have an Apple TV 4K or Apple TV HD, streaming Apple TV content is seamless. These devices come with the Apple TV app built-in, allowing you to enjoy all your content in 4K HDR with Dolby Atmos sound, provided you have a compatible TV and sound system.
The Apple TV box is a great option for those who want a high-quality, immersive viewing experience. Plus, it integrates with Apple’s HomeKit and Siri, so you can use voice commands to control your content.
AirPlay
If you have an older Apple device or a device that doesn’t natively support Apple TV, AirPlay is a great option. AirPlay allows you to stream content from your iPhone, iPad, or Mac directly to an Apple TV or AirPlay 2-compatible smart TV.
2. Smart TVs
Apple has partnered with many major TV manufacturers to bring the Apple TV app to smart TVs. This allows you to access Apple TV content without the need for additional hardware.
Samsung Smart TVs
Samsung is one of the leading TV brands that supports the Apple TV app. If you have a Samsung Smart TV from 2018 or later, you can download the Apple TV app directly from the Samsung Smart Hub.
Once installed, you can log in with your Apple ID and start streaming Apple TV content right away.
LG Smart TVs
LG Smart TVs from 2019 onwards also support the Apple TV app. You can download it directly from the LG Content Store.
One of the perks of using Apple TV on LG TVs is the support for 4K and Dolby Vision. If you have a compatible TV, you’ll enjoy a high-quality viewing experience.
Sony Smart TVs
Sony Smart TVs from 2018 or later come with the Apple TV app. Like other brands, you can download it from the app store on your TV and start watching immediately.
Sony’s OLED and 4K TVs, in particular, offer an excellent viewing experience, making it a great option for Apple TV fans.
Vizio Smart TVs
Vizio also offers support for Apple TV on their SmartCast TVs from 2016 or later. Simply access the app store on your TV and download the Apple TV app.
If you own a Vizio TV, you can also use AirPlay to stream content from your iPhone, iPad, or Mac directly to your TV.
3. Streaming Devices
Don’t have a smart TV? No problem. You can still access Apple TV on a variety of streaming devices.
Roku
Roku is one of the most popular streaming devices in the market, and it fully supports Apple TV. Whether you have a Roku Express or a Roku Ultra, you can download the Apple TV app from the Roku Channel Store.
One of the advantages of Roku is that it’s affordable and works with almost any TV, making it a budget-friendly option for streaming Apple TV.
Amazon Fire TV
Amazon’s Fire TV devices, including the Fire TV Stick and Fire TV Cube, support the Apple TV app. You can find it in the Amazon Appstore, and once downloaded, you’ll have access to all of your Apple TV content.
Fire TV devices are known for their ease of use, and they integrate well with other Amazon services like Alexa.
Google Chromecast
Google Chromecast with Google TV also supports Apple TV. If you own a Chromecast, you can install the Apple TV app from the Google Play Store and stream content right to your TV.
This is a great option for users who prefer Google’s ecosystem but still want access to Apple TV’s exclusive content.
4. Game Consoles
Even if you don’t own a smart TV or a streaming device, there’s still a good chance you can access Apple TV through your gaming console.
PlayStation
If you own a PlayStation 4 or PlayStation 5, you can download the Apple TV app from the PlayStation Store. The PS5, in particular, offers 4K streaming, making it a fantastic option for high-quality viewing.
PlayStation users benefit from the dual purpose of their console, using it both for gaming and streaming their favorite shows and movies.
Xbox
Xbox One, Xbox Series X, and Xbox Series S all support the Apple TV app as well. You can find it in the Microsoft Store, and once installed, you’ll have access to your entire Apple TV library.
Like PlayStation, Xbox offers 4K support, ensuring a top-tier viewing experience for gamers who want more from their console.
See Also: Why Is My Apple Pencil 2 Not Charging
5. Web Browsers
If you don’t own any of the devices mentioned above, you can still stream Apple TV directly from your web browser. Simply visit the Apple TV website and log in with your Apple ID.
The web interface offers the same content as the app versions, though the viewing experience might not be as smooth depending on your browser and internet connection.
Supported browsers include:
- Safari: Apple’s native web browser.
- Chrome: Google’s popular browser.
- Firefox: Mozilla’s open-source browser.
- Edge: Microsoft’s updated web browser.
6. AirPlay 2-Enabled Devices
Many newer TVs and devices support AirPlay 2, which allows you to stream content directly from your iPhone, iPad, or Mac to your TV. Brands that support AirPlay 2 include:
- Samsung
- LG
- Sony
- Vizio
AirPlay 2 also works with certain soundbars and speakers, allowing you to stream Apple TV content with enhanced audio quality.
How to Set Up Apple TV on Different Devices
Setting Up Apple TV on Smart TVs
- Download the Apple TV App: Go to your TV’s app store and download the Apple TV app.
- Sign In: Log in using your Apple ID.
- Browse Content: Once logged in, you can access Apple TV+, rent or purchase movies, or access content from other streaming services.
Setting Up Apple TV on Streaming Devices
- Download the Apple TV App: Go to the app store on your streaming device (e.g., Roku, Fire TV) and download the Apple TV app.
- Log In: Use your Apple ID to sign in.
- Enjoy Streaming: Once set up, you can start watching content from your Apple TV library.
Setting Up Apple TV on Gaming Consoles
- Download the Apple TV App: Head to the PlayStation or Xbox app store and install the Apple TV app.
- Sign In: Log in with your Apple ID.
- Start Watching: You can now stream all Apple TV content directly from your console.
Conclusion
Apple TV is accessible on a wide variety of devices, from Apple’s own hardware to smart TVs, gaming consoles, and even web browsers. This flexibility allows nearly anyone to enjoy Apple’s growing library of exclusive content, no matter what technology they own.
Related Topic:
Why Is My Apple Pencil Not Connecting To My iPad
