You can share Apple TV+ with up to five family members through Family Sharing. This feature lets you enjoy your favorite TV shows and movies together without paying for multiple subscriptions.
Setting up Family Sharing is easy. You’ll need to start a new family group on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac. Once set up, everyone in your group can access Apple TV+ content using their own Apple ID.
Apple TV+ offers a wide range of original content. From hit series to feature films, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Sharing your subscription means the whole family can stream on their own devices whenever they want.
| Family Sharing Benefits | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of family members | Up to 6 |
| Cost | No extra charge |
| Content access | All Apple TV+ shows and movies |
| Separate accounts | Each member uses their own Apple ID |
You can absolutely use Family Sharing and set up multiple users with Apple TV to share content and personalize viewing experiences for your household. Here’s a guide on how to do it:
Family Sharing for Apple TV+ and Shared Purchases
Family Sharing is an Apple feature that allows up to six family members to share eligible Apple services, including Apple TV+, Apple Music, Apple Arcade, iCloud+, and more, as well as purchased movies, TV shows, apps, and books from the iTunes Store, App Store, and Apple Books.
How to Set Up Family Sharing:
Family Sharing is initiated by one adult in the household, designated as the “family organizer,” using an iPhone, iPad, or Mac. You cannot set up Family Sharing directly on an Apple TV device.
- On iPhone or iPad:
- Go to Settings.
- Tap your name at the top.
- Tap Family Sharing.
- Tap Set Up Your Family and follow the on-screen instructions to invite family members via Messages, email, or in person.
- On Mac:
- Go to Apple menu > System Settings (or System Preferences on older macOS versions).
- Click your name, then click Family Sharing (or Family).
- Click Set Up Family and follow the instructions to invite family members.
What Family Sharing Shares with Apple TV:
- Apple TV+ Subscription: Your entire family group can access Apple Original shows and movies on Apple TV+ using their own Apple IDs.
- Eligible Purchased Content: Movies and TV shows purchased by any family member can be accessed by others in the family group within the Apple TV app under the “Library” or “Purchased” sections.
- Shared Subscriptions (Channels): If you subscribe to Apple TV Channels, these can often be shared with your family members as well, depending on the channel provider.
Important Notes on Family Sharing:
- Each family member uses their own Apple ID, ensuring personalized Up Next lists and recommendations while keeping their viewing history and library separate.
- The family organizer typically agrees to pay for purchases made by family members if purchase sharing is enabled. This can be managed in Family Sharing settings.
- Content availability may vary by region.
Multiple User Profiles on Apple TV (tvOS)
In addition to Family Sharing, Apple TV devices running tvOS allow you to create separate user profiles for each person in your household. This provides a personalized experience directly on the Apple TV, with individual:
- Up Next lists in the Apple TV app.
- Content recommendations.
- System language preferences.
- Paired AirPods settings.
- Game Center data.
- Music.
How to Add and Switch Between Multiple Users on Apple TV:
- Add User Profiles:
- On your Apple TV, go to Settings.
- Go to Users and Accounts.
- Select Add New User.
- Have the user sign in with their Apple ID following the on-screen instructions. You can often use an iPhone or iPad to simplify the sign-in process by scanning a QR code.
Alternatively, if your Apple TV is added to the Home app, you can invite people to your home, and they can be set up as users on the Apple TV through the Home app on their iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
- Switch Between Users:
- Press and hold the TV button on your Siri Remote to open the Control Center.
- Select the user profile icon in the top-right corner.
- Choose the desired user profile from the list.
Multiple Users in the Apple TV App (on Smart TVs, Streaming Devices, etc.)
The Apple TV app on non-Apple devices like smart TVs, streaming sticks (Roku, Fire Stick), and gaming consoles also supports multiple user profiles for a personalized experience within the app itself.
How to Add and Switch User Profiles in the Apple TV App:
- Add User Profiles:
- Open the Apple TV app on your device.
- Open the sidebar (usually by pressing the back or menu button on your remote).
- Select the current user profile at the top of the sidebar, then select Add New User, or go to Settings > Accounts > Add New Account.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to sign in with the new user’s Apple ID. You may have the option to sign in using a mobile device with a QR code or sign in manually.
- Switch Between Users:
- Open the Apple TV app.
- Open the sidebar.
- Select the user profile icon at the top and choose the user you want to switch to.
By utilizing both Family Sharing and multiple user profiles, you can ensure that everyone in your household has seamless access to shared Apple TV content while enjoying a personalized viewing experience tailored to their preferences.
Getting Started with Apple TV
Apple TV offers a seamless entertainment experience with easy setup and powerful features. You can quickly start enjoying your favorite content across various Apple devices.
Setting Up Your Apple TV
Connect your Apple TV to your TV using an HDMI cable. Plug in the power cord. Turn on your TV and select the correct HDMI input. The Apple TV setup screen will appear.
Use your iPhone or iPad for automatic setup. Hold your device near Apple TV when prompted. Follow the on-screen instructions to transfer settings and login information.
If you don’t have an iOS device, use the Siri Remote. Select your language and region. Choose to set up manually. Connect to your Wi-Fi network and enter your Apple ID.
Enable location services and Siri if desired. Agree to the terms and conditions. Choose whether to share analytics with Apple.
Exploring Apple TV App Features
The Apple TV app serves as your central hub for content. Browse movies, TV shows, and sports from various streaming services.
Find the app on your Apple TV, iPhone, iPad, or Mac. Sign in with your Apple ID to access your library and purchases.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Up Next | Shows your recently watched and upcoming episodes |
| Watch Now | Personalized recommendations based on your viewing history |
| Library | Access your purchased content and rentals |
| Store | Buy or rent new movies and TV shows |
Use the Search function to find specific titles across multiple services. Add shows to your Up Next queue for easy access.
Enable Family Sharing to share your Apple TV+ subscription with up to five family members. Enjoy personalized recommendations for each profile.
Subscription Services on Apple TV
Apple TV offers a variety of subscription services that enhance your entertainment experience. These include streaming content, music, games, books, and news.
Understanding Apple TV+ Subscription
Apple TV+ is a streaming service featuring original shows, movies, and documentaries. You get access to new content every month. The service costs $9.99 per month after a 7-day free trial.
You can share Apple TV+ with your family. This allows up to six family members to enjoy the content on their own devices.
Apple TV+ is included free for 3 months when you buy an eligible Apple device. This offer must be redeemed within 90 days of purchase.
Benefits of Apple Music and Apple Arcade
Apple Music gives you access to over 100 million songs. You can stream or download them for offline listening. The service includes curated playlists and radio stations.
Apple Arcade is a game subscription service. It offers over 200 games without ads or in-app purchases. You can play these games across your Apple devices.
Both services can be shared with family members. This makes them cost-effective options for households.
Access to Books and Apple News+
Apple Books offers millions of ebooks and audiobooks. You can buy books individually or subscribe to Apple News+ for magazine and newspaper access.
Apple News+ includes hundreds of magazines and leading newspapers. You get full access to current and past issues.
These services sync across your devices. This allows you to start reading on one device and continue on another.
| Service | Monthly Cost | Family Sharing | Free Trial |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apple TV+ | $9.99 | Yes | 7 days |
| Apple Music | $10.99 | Yes | 1 month |
| Apple Arcade | $4.99 | Yes | 1 month |
| Apple News+ | $9.99 | Yes | 1 month |
Family Sharing Features
Family Sharing on Apple TV allows up to six family members to share purchases, subscriptions, and storage. This feature simplifies content access and management for households.
Setting Up Family Sharing
To set up Family Sharing, start on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac. Go to Settings > [Your Name] > Family Sharing. Tap “Set Up Your Family” and follow the prompts. You’ll become the family organizer.
Invite family members via Messages or email. They’ll receive instructions to join. Each member needs an Apple ID. Children under 13 can get one with parental consent.
Family Sharing works across Apple devices. Once set up, it syncs automatically. Members can access shared content on Apple TV without additional setup.
Managing Purchase Sharing and Subscriptions
Purchase sharing lets family members access each other’s bought content. This includes apps, movies, TV shows, and books. To enable it, go to Settings > [Your Name] > Family Sharing > Purchase Sharing.
Family members can share Apple TV+ and other Apple subscriptions. The organizer pays for these services. Shared subscriptions include:
- Apple TV+
- Apple Music
- Apple Arcade
- Apple News+
To manage subscriptions, go to Settings > [Your Name] > Subscriptions. You can add or remove shared subscriptions here.
Utilizing iCloud+ for Family
iCloud+ offers shared storage and features for families. The organizer chooses a plan to share. Options include:
- 50GB
- 200GB
- 2TB
Family members get:
- Shared photo albums
- Find My device tracking
- Screen Time reports
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Private Relay | Encrypts internet traffic |
| Hide My Email | Creates unique email aliases |
| HomeKit Secure Video | Stores security camera footage |
To set up iCloud+ sharing, go to Settings > [Your Name] > Family Sharing > iCloud+. Choose a plan and enable sharing.
Enhancing Your Viewing Experience
Apple TV+ offers several features to customize and improve your streaming experience. Let’s explore how to make the most of your subscription.
Curating a Personalized Watchlist
Creating a watchlist helps you keep track of content you want to watch. To add shows or movies, simply click the “+” button next to any title. Your watchlist syncs across all your devices, making it easy to pick up where you left off.
You can access your watchlist from the Apple TV app’s main menu. This feature allows you to organize your viewing preferences efficiently.
Remove items from your watchlist by clicking the “√” button next to watched titles. This keeps your list current and manageable.
Discovering Apple Originals Content
Apple TV+ boasts a growing library of original content. To find new shows and movies, use the “Originals” tab in the Apple TV app.
Browse through categories like drama, comedy, and documentaries. Each title includes a brief description, cast information, and viewer ratings.
Set up notifications for new releases of your favorite series. This ensures you never miss an episode.
| Popular Apple Originals | Genre |
|---|---|
| Ted Lasso | Comedy |
| The Morning Show | Drama |
| Silo | Sci-Fi |
| Severance | Thriller |
Integrating with Other Devices and Services
Apple TV+ integrates seamlessly with other Apple services and devices. Use AirPlay to stream content from your iPhone or iPad to your Apple TV or compatible smart TVs.
Enable Family Sharing to let up to six family members enjoy your Apple TV+ subscription. This feature also shares App Store purchases and iCloud storage.
Link your Apple TV+ account with compatible third-party streaming devices like Roku. This expands your viewing options beyond Apple-branded products.
Download shows for offline viewing on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac. This feature is perfect for travel or areas with limited internet access.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sharing Apple TV comes with various options and limitations. Users can access content across devices, share subscriptions, and utilize Family Sharing features.
How can multiple users access Apple TV on a single device?
Apple TV devices support multiple user profiles. Each family member can set up their own profile with personalized recommendations and watch history. To switch profiles, go to the user icon in the top right corner of the home screen and select the desired account.
Is it possible to share an Apple TV subscription with members of a different household?
Apple TV+ subscriptions can be shared through Family Sharing. This feature allows up to six family members to access the service. However, all members must be part of the same Family Sharing group, which typically includes people in the same household.
What are the restrictions, if any, for sharing Apple TV with friends?
Sharing Apple TV with friends outside your Family Sharing group is not officially supported. The service is designed for use within a single household. Sharing login credentials with friends may violate the terms of service and could lead to account restrictions.
Can Apple TV be accessed through Family Sharing on an iPhone?
Yes, Apple TV can be accessed through Family Sharing on an iPhone. Once Family Sharing is set up, family members can download the Apple TV app on their iPhones and sign in with their Apple ID to access shared content.
What steps need to be taken to set up Apple TV for family sharing on Android?
Apple TV+ can be accessed on Android devices through a web browser. To set up family sharing:
- The family organizer must set up Family Sharing on an Apple device.
- Invite family members to join the group.
- Android users can then access Apple TV+ by visiting tv.apple.com in their web browser.
Are there any location-based limitations when sharing Apple TV with another user?
Location-based limitations may apply when sharing Apple TV. Some content might be restricted in certain regions due to licensing agreements. Family members traveling abroad may encounter geo-restrictions on specific shows or movies.
| Feature | Limitation |
|---|---|
| Number of users | Up to 6 family members |
| Simultaneous streams | Varies by subscription type |
| Offline downloads | Limited to device storage |
| Regional content | May vary by location |
