Apple TV+ has become a powerful contender in the ever-growing streaming wars, carving out its niche with a curated library of high-quality original programming. Launched in November 2019, Apple’s streaming service has made a bold bet: less quantity, more quality. While it doesn’t offer the vast back catalog of competitors like Netflix or Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+ shines through its commitment to premium storytelling, top-tier talent, and sleek production values.
For $9.99 per month, Apple TV+ subscribers gain access to a rich collection of exclusive TV shows, movies, documentaries, and children’s content. It’s an ad-free experience with new content regularly added, often accompanied by global marketing campaigns and award-season buzz.
Where You Can Watch Apple TV+
Apple TV+ is available through the Apple TV app, which is pre-installed on all Apple devices like iPhones, iPads, Macs, and Apple TVs. But Apple’s strategy goes beyond its own ecosystem — the app is also available on Amazon Fire TV, Roku, smart TVs from major manufacturers, PlayStation and Xbox consoles, and most recently, Android devices (as of February 2025). For browser users, streaming is accessible via tv.apple.com.
This broad availability underscores Apple’s push to make its original content accessible beyond its hardware walled garden. You can start watching on your iPhone, continue on your smart TV, and finish on a web browser — with progress syncing across devices.
What Makes Apple TV+ Different?
Apple TV+ took a minimalist but deliberate approach. Unlike Netflix or Disney+, it doesn’t focus on quantity. Instead, it invests heavily in a smaller selection of original shows and films with high production budgets, respected directors, and A-list casts. Every piece of content on the platform is either an Apple Original or an exclusive Apple acquisition.
While the catalog might seem modest, the consistent quality has made Apple TV+ a critically acclaimed powerhouse. It was the first streaming service to win the Best Picture Oscar (for “CODA”), and its series regularly garner Emmy, Golden Globe, and BAFTA nominations.
Now let’s take a look at some of the standout shows that define Apple TV+ and its vision for streaming excellence:
Must-Watch Apple TV+ Originals
1. Ted Lasso
A heartwarming and deeply optimistic comedy about an American football coach who’s hired to manage a British soccer team — despite having no experience in the sport. Jason Sudeikis leads the series with a blend of humor, charm, and emotional depth. It’s one of Apple TV+’s most beloved and awarded shows, becoming a global phenomenon and redefining modern comedy.
2. Severance
This genre-bending psychological thriller explores a workplace where employees undergo a procedure to sever their work and personal memories. With sleek visuals, haunting score, and philosophical undertones about identity and corporate control, “Severance” has become a critical darling, returning for its much-anticipated second season in January 2025.
3. Silo
A dystopian sci-fi drama based on Hugh Howey’s novels, “Silo” takes viewers into a future where people live in a massive underground structure to escape a poisoned surface world. The second season dives deeper into the mystery of the silo’s origins, conspiracies, and the power structures keeping its people in the dark.
4. Sugar
Colin Farrell stars in this modern noir detective series as John Sugar, a private investigator navigating the glamorous and sinister underbelly of Los Angeles. It combines classic noir elements with contemporary storytelling, and its renewal for a second season confirms its impact with audiences and critics alike.
5. Echo 3
A fast-paced military thriller about a scientist kidnapped in South America and the elite operatives trying to save her. With a narrative that spans global geopolitics, trauma, and personal loyalty, “Echo 3” delivers high-octane storytelling and emotional weight.
6. Before
This recent thriller stars Billy Crystal as a psychiatrist grappling with grief while treating a troubled child with violent tendencies. As the story unfolds, he begins to suspect a mysterious link between the child’s visions and his own life. “Before” blends psychological horror with drama, creating an emotional yet chilling experience.
7. Little America
An anthology series that explores the lives of immigrants in America — each episode telling a new, heartfelt story inspired by real experiences. “Little America” is praised for its emotional honesty, diversity, and hopeful tone, painting a broader picture of what it means to chase the American dream.
Beyond TV Shows: Apple TV+ Films and Documentaries
In addition to series, Apple TV+ has invested in high-profile original films. From Academy Award-winning drama “CODA” to thrillers like “Emancipation” starring Will Smith and emotional character studies like “Causeway” with Jennifer Lawrence, Apple’s film catalog continues to grow with prestige releases.
Documentaries are also a key focus. Titles like “The Line,” “Beastie Boys Story,” and nature series narrated by Sir David Attenborough demonstrate Apple’s dedication to high-quality nonfiction storytelling.
Kids and Family Programming
Apple hasn’t ignored younger viewers either. Animated series like “Snoopy in Space,” “Wolfboy and the Everything Factory,” and “Stillwater” are crafted with educational value and heart. These shows often highlight themes of emotional intelligence, curiosity, and creativity — aligning with Apple’s brand values.
Continued Expansion and Accessibility
In 2025, Apple finally opened the doors for Android phone users, launching the Apple TV app for Android 10 and newer. It’s a major shift for the company known for its exclusive ecosystem — signaling Apple’s goal to push Apple TV+ into more mainstream adoption. The move also comes with a 7-day free trial for first-time users, giving new audiences a chance to explore its offerings risk-free.
Apple also continues to invest in global content and production partnerships, positioning itself to rival competitors not just in the U.S., but around the world.
Final Thoughts
Apple TV+ may not have the largest library, but it arguably has one of the best pound-for-pound selections in streaming. Each show or film is treated as an event — from its star power to its marketing to its meticulous craftsmanship. With new hits launching regularly and the service expanding across platforms, Apple TV+ is evolving into a must-have subscription for discerning viewers who value quality storytelling.
If you’re looking for depth, creativity, and stories that linger long after the credits roll, Apple TV+ is well worth exploring.
