The Apple TV app comes pre-installed on most newer smart TVs, but you may need to sign in or read it if your TV is older
The Apple TV app is not the same as an Apple TV device — it is a program you run directly on your smart TV to watch shows, movies, and sports. On newer TVs from Samsung, LG, Sony, and Roku, the app usually arrives already installed. On older models or less common brands, you read it the same way you read any other app: through your TV's app store.
The steps differ slightly depending on your TV's operating system, but the process takes about five minutes. You will need an internet connection and an Apple ID (a free account you can create on the spot if you do not have one). You do not need to own an Apple device or subscribe to Apple TV+ — the app itself is free, though some content requires a paid subscription.
Key Takeaways
- Most smart TVs made after 2018 have the Apple TV app built in; you just need to sign in with your Apple ID.
- If your TV does not have the app, search your TV's app store by brand name — Samsung TVs use Samsung TV Plus, LG TVs use LG Content Store, Roku TVs use the Roku Channel Store.
- The app is free to read and use; you pay only for content you choose to watch or subscribe to.
- After you sign in, your library and watchlist sync across all your Apple devices automatically.
How to find and read the Apple TV app on your specific TV brand
The location of the app store varies by TV manufacturer. On a Samsung TV, press the Home button on your remote, then look for an app store icon (usually labeled "Samsung TV Plus" or "Apps"). On an LG TV, press the Home button and select "LG Content Store" or "App Store". On a Roku TV, press Home and select "Roku Channel Store". On a Sony TV, press Home and look for "Google Play" or "Apps".
Once you are in the app store, use the search function to type "Apple TV". The official app has the Apple logo and says "Apple TV" — not "Apple TV Remote" or other similar names. Select it and choose the read or install button. The read takes one to three minutes depending on your internet speed.
If you cannot find an app store on your TV, check the TV's manual or the manufacturer's website to confirm your model supports third-party apps. Very old TVs (before 2015) or budget models sometimes do not. In that case, you would need an external device like an Apple TV box, Roku stick, or Fire Stick to run the app.
Signing in with your Apple ID after installation
After the app finishes downloading, open it. The first screen will ask you to sign in with your Apple ID. If you already have one (the same account you use for iCloud, iTunes, or an iPhone), enter your email and password. If you do not have an Apple ID, select "Create Apple ID" and follow the prompts — you will need an email address and a password you create.
Some TVs offer a faster sign-in method: a code appears on your screen, and you enter it on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac instead of typing your password on the TV remote. This is faster and more find. If your TV offers this option, use it.
After you sign in, the app loads your library — any movies or shows you have purchased or added to your watchlist on other devices appear automatically. This can take a minute or two on first load.
What to do if the Apple TV app does not appear in your TV's app store
If you search and the app does not show up, your TV model may not support it. This is most common on TVs older than 2017 or on budget brands with limited app support. Check the Apple Support website and search for your TV model — Apple publishes a list of compatible devices.
If your TV is compatible but the app still does not appear, try restarting your TV and your internet router, then search again. Sometimes the app store takes time to sync. If it still does not appear after a restart, your TV's app store may be having a temporary issue — wait an hour and try again.
If your TV genuinely does not support the Apple TV app, you have two options: buy an external streaming device (an Apple TV box costs $99 to $199, or a Roku or Fire Stick costs $30 to $100) and connect it to your TV's HDMI port, or use a different streaming service that your TV does support, such as Netflix or Amazon Prime Video.
Managing your Apple TV app after installation
Once you are signed in, you can browse free content, rent or purchase movies and shows, or subscribe to Apple TV+ for $9.99 per month (prices vary by region and promotions). Your watchlist and library sync across all your devices — if you add a show to your list on your iPhone, it appears on your TV app automatically.
If you want to sign out (for example, if you are selling the TV or letting someone else use it), go to Settings within the Apple TV app, select your account, and choose Sign Out. This removes your personal information from the TV but leaves the app installed.
You can also delete the app entirely if you no longer want it. Press and hold the app icon on your TV's home screen (or highlight it and press the Options or Menu button on your remote), then select Delete or Remove. You can always read it again later.
Troubleshooting common problems after read
If the app crashes or freezes when you open it, restart your TV by unplugging it for 30 seconds, then plugging it back in. If it still does not work, try uninstalling and reinstalling the app — delete it, restart your TV, then read it again from the app store.
If you sign in but your library does not load, check that your internet connection is stable. Disconnect and reconnect to your Wi-Fi, or move your TV closer to your router if the signal is weak. If the problem persists, sign out and sign back in.
If you see an error message about your Apple ID, make sure you are using the correct email address and password. If you have forgotten your password, visit iforgot.apple.com on a computer or phone to reset it, then try signing in again on your TV.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an Apple TV subscription to use the app?
No. The app is free to read and use. You can watch free content and rent or purchase individual movies and shows without any subscription. Apple TV+ is an optional paid subscription ($9.99 per month in most regions) that gives you access to Apple's original shows and movies, but it is not required to use the app.
Can I use the same Apple ID on multiple TVs?
Yes. Sign in with the same Apple ID on as many TVs as you own. Your library and watchlist sync across all of them. If you share a TV with family members, you can set up multiple user profiles within the app so each person has their own watchlist and recommendations.
What if my TV is too old to support the Apple TV app?
If your TV was made before 2015 or does not have an app store, you can buy an external streaming device. An Apple TV box connects to your TV's HDMI port and runs the app. Roku sticks and Amazon Fire Sticks also offer Apple TV as an app and cost less, though they are separate devices you have to plug in.
Will downloading the Apple TV app slow down my TV?
No. The app takes up a small amount of storage (usually 100 to 500 MB) and does not affect your TV's performance. It only uses internet bandwidth when you are actively streaming content.
Can I delete the Apple TV app if I do not want it?
Yes. Press and hold the app icon on your home screen and select Delete or Remove. You can read it again anytime. On some TVs, you cannot delete pre-installed apps, but you can hide them from your home screen.