Apple TV Plus: Your Guide To The Small But Mighty Streaming Service (2023)

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Since its rise as a premium streaming service in November 2019, Apple TV Plus has swiftly established itself as a major player in the streaming market and a keen competitor to other leading services like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and Max. Apple TV Plus offers an extensive catalog of big-budget original shows, movies, and documentaries known for their high production values, stellar casts, and innovative storytelling. Over the years, the streaming platform has produced notable titles that have gained critical attention and significant viewership, such as “Ted Lasso,” “Shrinking,” “CODA,” and “The Morning Show,” which have helped Apple TV Plus gain an impressive number of 25 million subscribers across 100 countries, including Canada.

One of Apple TV Plus’ unique features is its convenient integration with Apple devices, allowing users to conveniently navigate the platform while exploring various entertainment options, all within the Apple ecosystem. Apart from that, Apple TV Plus has flexible membership plans and free trials that give users the opportunity to enjoy what the platform has to offer for free or at an affordable price.

In this comprehensive review of Apple TV Plus Canada, we will give you a detailed guide of all of its content, subscription plans, and other benefits to help you decide whether an Apple TV Plus subscription is worth it.

What Is Apple TV Plus

Apple TV Plus Review

Apple TV Plus is affordable. It starts at CAD$8.99 per month.
It has limited content but offers an all-original and exclusive streaming library.
Apple TV Plus has a separate video-on-demand store that lets users buy or rent various TV shows or movies.
100+ original series and movies.
Mostly works with devices within the Apple ecosystem.

Product Specs

Original programming
On-demand library
Integration with Apple devices
Offline streaming
Simultaneous screens
4K Dolby video and sound resolution

Why Should You Get an Apple TV Plus Subscription

Aside from its library of high-production shows, Apple TV Plus offers standout features designed specifically for iOS devices that deliver an enhanced streaming experience, making it a compelling platform choice for users invested in the Apple ecosystem. Read on to learn about the exclusive and immersive features you can enjoy with an Apple TV Plus subscription.

All Original Streaming Library

Apple TV Plus offers a much smaller array of content compared to its competitors. The streaming service has less than a hundred original shows and movies combined. However, Apple TV Plus makes up for in quality what it lacks in quantity. Apple TV Plus puts great effort into curating a select number of high-quality content to guarantee that each production receives the appropriate creative attention and resources it requires. The Apple platform is widely known for its big-budget, original content and its frequent collaboration with Hollywood’s greatest talents in filmmaking and acting, resulting in a catalog of standout titles. With its emphasis on quality, Apple TV Plus provides its viewers with innovative storylines, unforgettable performances, and high production values.

The streaming platform has received critical acclaim for its exclusive content such as “Severance,” “Pachinko,” “The Crowded Room,” “The Morning Show,” “Silo,” and “Ted Lasso.” Apple TV Plus continues to bolster its reputation for quality productions with an upcoming lineup of highly-anticipated projects such as: “Killers of the Flower Moon,” a Leonardo DiCaprio starrer film helmed by Martin Scorsese; Ridley Scott’s epic historical film “Napoleon,” which features “Joker” star Joaquin Phoenix; and “Fingernails,” starring “The Bear” star Jeremy Allen White.

Video-on-demand library

While Apple TV Plus focuses on bringing original content, users can still rent or purchase third-party content on the platform through its extensive video-on-demand library that contains thousands of blockbuster movies and episodes of beloved TV shows. However, the on-demand content is sometimes not separated from the Apple TV originals, which can be quite misleading for users.

Offline streaming

You can easily download your favorite shows to your device when you want to stream offline or have a limited internet connection. Apple TV Plus allows unlimited downloads, though downloaded content will expire in 30 days.

High-quality video and sound resolution

You can enjoy Apple TV Plus’ content in the highest video and sound quality supported by your device. All of its original content can be streamed from HDR to 4K with a Dolby Atmos and Dolby Vision feature.

Parental control

Apple TV Plus has a parental control setting that lets adults set up a passcode to restrict children from accessing content with explicit themes that are not appropriate for younger audiences.

User-friendly Interface

Just like most Apple hardware, the streaming platform also boasts a sophisticated and minimalist interface that focuses on ease of use, providing users with a seamless viewing experience. Its interface has a robust algorithm that gives personal recommendations that suit each user’s preferences accurately. Each show and movie are neatly categorized into their respective genres, and users also have the option to create their own watchlists. Overall, it has one of the best user interfaces among its competitors.

MLS Season Pass

Movie and TV show geeks aren’t the only ones who can enjoy Apple TV Plus. Sports fans can also get in on the action with the MLS (Major League Soccer) Season Pass. The MLS Season Pass is an add-on feature that provides soccer enthusiasts access to a variety of MLS content, such as live matches, exclusive interviews, behind-the-scenes clips, and more.

Multiple devices

Apple TV Plus allows up to six simultaneous screens which are perfect for households who share their accounts. Apple users also have the privilege of the platform’s streamlined integration with Apple’s ecosystem. Unfortunately, a lot of non-Apple devices are still restricted from accessing the platform. However, you can still enjoy Apple TV Plus on selected devices such as game consoles like the Xbox and Playstation, and streaming devices like Roku, Google TV, and Amazon Fire TV Stick.

Family sharing plans

The Family Sharing feature allows subscribers to share their streaming privileges with up to six family members at an affordable price.

Apple One Bundle

Apple One is an all-in-one package that enables Apple users to subscribe to multiple services at once for a much lower price. The bundle includes Apple TV Plus, Apple Music, Apple Arcade, iCloud, Apple News, and Apple Fitness. If you wish to subscribe to each service, availing yourself of an Apple One bundle can help you save extra pennies from your membership.

Pros

High-quality original content
Convenient integration with Apple devices
Affordable and flexible plans
Long trial period for new users of Apple devices
Long trial period for new Apple One subscribers
Up to six simultaneous screens
Family Sharing plan
Live sports programming
Offline streaming
On-demand catalog

Cons

Not compatible with non-Apple devices
Limited quantity of content
No third-party content
Video-on-demand titles are sometimes not separated from Apple Originals which can be misleading

So, Should You Subscribe To Apple TV Plus?

Subscribing to Apple TV Plus is a wise choice if you value excellent storytelling, crave fresh and innovative stories, and want a seamless streaming experience, especially if you’re an avid iOS user. Additionally, you can enjoy Apple TV Plus’ premium services at a very affordable price, which is cheaper compared to most streaming platforms today.

Apple TV Plus Plus Cheat Sheet

Price

Apple TV Plus offers an affordable monthly fee that starts at CAD$8.99.

Price increase

Apple TV Plus hasn’t implemented any price hikes recently.

Best deals

One of the best deals is availing the Apple One bundle. For CAD$18.95, you get to enjoy other Apple services like Apple Music, Apple Arcade, and more, all for the price of one.

Supported devices

Apple TV Plus is mostly compatible with Apple devices. Non iOS users can access the app through web browsers, gaming consoles, and select streaming devices.

What’s popular

“The Morning Show,” “Severance,” “Ted Lasso,” “Hijack,” “Pachinko,” “The Crowded Room,” “Silo”

Coming soon

Martin Scorsese’s “Killers of the Flower Moon,” Ridley Scott’s “Napoleon,” “Fingernails,” “Monarch,” “Argylle,” “Lessons in Chemistry”

How Much Is Apple TV Plus?

Users can choose from various options to get an Apple TV Plus membership, including cost-effective bundles, student discounts, family plans, and more. Apple TV Plus also has considerably cheaper subscription plans compared to other streaming services.

Apple TV Plus Plans and Pricing

The platform offers one membership tier, which is the monthly plan. Users can opt to avail the Apple One bundle if they prefer to subscribe to other Apple services.

Plan	Monthly Fee	Simultaneous Screens	Video Resolution	Free Trial Period
Stand-alone subscription	CAD$8.99	6 devices	HDR to 4K	7 days
Apple One bundle	CAD$18.95	6 devices	HDR to 4K	1 month

In addition to the standard, standalone plan, Apple Music offers a more affordable deal to university students. For only CAD$6 monthly, students can subscribe to Apple Music at a discounted rate, which also includes a free monthly subscription to Apple TV Plus. Simply use a valid university email when signing up to qualify for the deal.

Does Apple TV Plus Have a Free Trial?

Yes. The monthly plan comes with a 7-day free trial for new users. If you have recently purchased a new Apple device, like iPhone, iPad, or Mac, you are automatically eligible for a lengthy three-month trial period. This free trial lets new users navigate Apple TV Plus’ features and content before they decide to pay for a subscription.

Another way to redeem a free trial is by subscribing to the Apple One bundle. The bundle offers a one-month trial for new users.

Does Apple TV Plus Have an Ad-Supported Plan?

No, Apple TV Plus does not offer any ad-supported plans. However, ads occasionally appear at the start of every streaming session. These ads are not for third-party brands; instead, they are promotional messages for Apple TV Plus’ original shows. These ads are not disruptive and can be skipped easily.

Are There Apple TV Plus Gift Cards?

Yes, Apple gift cards can be used as a payment for various Apple services, including Apple TV Plus. You can redeem your gift card on the Apple website.

How Do I Sign Up for Apple TV Plus?

Access to Apple services, including Apple TV Plus, requires users to have a valid Apple ID. Only iOS users have the privilege of having an Apple ID, limiting its access to a broader range of audiences who may not be using Apple devices. See the steps below on how to sign up for Apple TV Plus.

Launch the Apple TV+ on your device.
Select the “Apple TV+ Originals” tab.
Tap the “Get Apple TV+” tab.
Enter your existing Apple ID and password.
Add your billing information and preferred payment method.
Start streaming.

What Devices Does Apple TV Plus Support?

Apple TV Plus is often criticized for its exclusivity in terms of device compatibility as it mostly only works with gadgets within the Apple ecosystem. But don’t worry, users can still enjoy the platform through web browsers even if they don’t use iOS devices. Here’s a list of supported devices on Apple TV Plus.

Mobile/Tablets

iPhone
iPad
iPod touch

Computers/Laptops

MacOS

Web browsers

Windows PC
Chrome OS
Chrome
Firefox

Smart TVs

Roku
Fire TV
Android TV
Google TV
Samsung Smart TV
LG Smart TV
Panasonic
Sony
Vizio
Hisense
VIDAA

Apple TV

Apple TV 4K
Apple TV HD
Apple TV 3rd generation

Game consoles

PS5
PS4
Xbox One
Xbox Series X
Xbos Series S

Cable or satellite services

Xfinity
Sky
Free
Magenta TV
B TV
Telstra TV
Rogers
Cox
Verizon

Is there a Watch Party Mode?

Yes, Apple TV Plus users can conduct virtual watch parties through SharePlay. SharePlay is an Apple feature linked to FaceTime and iMessage that lets users sync their viewing sessions with friends and family, allowing them to stream the same content simultaneously.

What Features and Formats Are Supported on Apple TV Plus?

Apple TV Plus only has one standard plan, which costs CAD$8.99 per month. Keep reading to see what inclusions and features you can enjoy with the monthly plan.

Features Included With The Monthly Plan

Dolby Atmos and Vision features.
Up to 4K video resolution.
Swift integration with other Apple services.
7-day free trial for new users.
Access to all of Apple TV Plus’ content.
A single Apple TV Plus subscription allows up to six simultaneous streams.
Apple TV Plus allows unlimited downloads. However, any downloaded content will only be available for offline viewing for 30 days.

What Can I Watch In Apple Disney Plus?

Apple TV Plus is best known for its high-quality original content. While the number of available titles may still be minimal, Apple TV Plus originals cover a diverse range of genres, such as thrillers, comedies, romance, action, sci-fi, and more, ensuring that there is something for everyone’s interests. Here’s an overview of some of the best Apple TV Originals that you can binge-watch.

Best Shows

Though Apple TV Plus has a limited number of content compared to other services, its shows still offer a fresh and great deal of genres, from sci-fi, romance, comedy, thriller, and more. “Silo,” “Pachinko,” “The Crowded Room,” “Explorations,” “Severance,” “The Morning Show,” “Ted Lasso,” “Hijack,” “The Afterparty,” “Shrinking,” “The Changeling,” “Dickinson,” “Invasion,” “Foundation,” “For All Mankind,” “Black Bird,” “Physical,” “Slow Horses,” “Drops of God,” “Platonic,” “The Last Thing He Told Me,” “High Desert,” are some of the best shows on Apple TV Plus.

Additionally, there’s plenty of family-friendly content available for kids to enjoy. Some of the best kids’ shows on Apple TV Plus include, “The Snoopy Show,” “Harriet the Spy,” “Luck,” “One Of A Kind Marcie,” “Stillwater,” “The Peanut Classics,” “The Boy, The Mole, The Fox, and The Horse,” “It’s the Small Things, Charlie Brown,” and more.

Best Movies

Aside from its high-quality shows, Apple TV Plus also boasts a roster of critically acclaimed films. Here are some of the best Apple TV Plus movies: “CODA,” “The Tragedy of Macbeth,” “Tetris,” “Cha Cha Real Smooth,” “Causeway,” “The Beanie Bubble,” “Swan Song,” “Ghosted,” “Sharper,” “On the Rocks,” “Spirited,” “Cherry,” “Mythic Quest,” “The Banker,” “Palmer,” “The Sky is Everywhere,” and more.

If you feel like Apple TV Plus’ movie selection is not enough, you can check out its video-on-demand feature that offers thousands of third-party movies. Recent theatrical releases like “Barbie,” “No Hard Feelings,” “Past Lives,” “Asteroid City,” “Theater Camp,” “Talk To Me,” “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse,” “The Super Mario Bros. Movie,” and “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem,” are all available for purchase or rent on Apple TV Plus’ video-on-demand store.

Best Documentaries

Like their original shows and movies, Apple TV Plus’ selection of documentaries is as diverse. Prepare to learn more about nature, animals, and history, and even the personal lives of your favorite artists.

Some of the best documentaries on Apple TV Plus include biographies like “Still: A Michael J. Fox Movie,” “Selena Gomez: My Mind & Me,” “The Velvet Underground,” “The Super Models,” “Billie Eilish: The World’s A Little Blurry,” “Stephen Curry: Underrated,” “Beastie Boys Story,” and “9/11: Inside the President’s War Room.”

On the other hand, titles like “Prehistoric Planet,” “The Year Earth Changed,” “Big Beasts,” “Tiny World,” “The Elephant Queen,” “Fireball: Visitors from Darker Worlds,” “Fathom,” “Dads,” “Boys State,” and “Home,” are some of the best educational and informative documentaries you can indulge in on Apple TV Plus.

Does It Offer Anything Else?

Aside from original shows, movies, and documentaries, the platform also offers the MLS Season Pass or Major League Soccer, which features various soccer programs, including live streams, interviews, game highlights, and other special content. For users with an existing Apple TV Plus subscription, the MLS Season Pass will cost an additional CAD$16.99 per month or CAD$99 per season. If you only want to subscribe to the MLS Season Pass, you will have to pay CAD$19.99 per month or CAD$125 per season.

What’s New On Apple TV Plus?

New shows on Apple TV Plus include the second season of the sci-fi series “Foundation,” the fourth season of “The Morning Show,” the premiere of “The Supermodels” docuseries, and the thriller series “The Changeling.” Moreover, Apple TV Plus offers its users the exciting opportunity to tune in to the streaming debuts of some of this year’s most highly anticipated films, which includes Martin Scorsese’s “Killers of the Flower Moon,” Ridley Scott’s “Napoleon,” and the “Fingernails” movie starring “The Bear” star Jeremy Allen White.

Who should sign up for Apple TV Plus?

Users with Apple devices will surely enjoy the platform’s premium features and swift integration with Apple devices. It is also the ideal platform for those who are seeking fresh and groundbreaking narratives that they can access at an affordable price.

How to Cancel Apple TV Plus

Apple TV Plus is primarily compatible with devices within the Apple ecosystem, such as iPhones, Macs, iPads, and the Apple TV 4K. For non-iOS users, it is also accessible through web browsers, game consoles, and streaming devices. While these options make our streaming experience more convenient, it is also crucial to know how each of these devices operates when it comes to canceling our subscriptions.

How To Cancel Through Browser

Users with no Apple devices can cancel their memberships through web browsers. Follow the steps below to learn how to cancel your subscription via browsers.

Visit the Apple TV Plus website. tv.apple.com
Click on the account icon at the upper right part of the page.
Choose Settings.
Look for the “Subscriptions” tab and click “Manage.”
Choose “Cancel Subscription.”

How To Cancel Through Mobile App

Only subscribers with Apple devices can cancel their memberships directly through the mobile app. Follow the steps below to cancel your subscription through the mobile and Settings app:

On your mobile app:

Launch the Apple TV+ app on your iPhone.

Tap on the account icon at the top of the page.
Tap on “Manage Subscriptions.”
Look for Apple TV+ and tap “Cancel Subscription.”
Choose “Confirm” to finalize your cancellation.

On your mobile Settings:

Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
Tap on your Apple ID.
Choose “Subscriptions.”
Look for Apple TV+ and tap “Cancel Subscription.”
Click “Confirm” to finalize your cancellation.

How does Apple TV Plus compare to other streaming services?

If you’re not satisfied with Apple TV Plus’ exclusive features and limited original content, you might want to check out some of its top competitors to see if they suit your preferences better.

Netflix

Netflix has become the top streaming platform over the past few years because of its rapidly growing collection of popular original content. However, it is also heavily criticized for its pricey subscription plans that only offer streaming services, unlike other platforms. If you’re looking for a platform with an endless collection of content and do not mind paying for an expensive plan, then Netflix might be perfect for you. But if what you’re after is affordable, consistent, and high-quality storytelling, then Apple TV Plus might suit you better.

Max

Max is a powerhouse for critically acclaimed productions like “Game of Thrones,” “The Sopranos,” “The White Lotus,” and “The Last of Us,” and Apple TV Plus comes close. Both platforms prioritize delivering top-notch content that appeals to discerning audiences. Max also houses third-party content, unlike Apple TV Plus. However, Max is more expensive than Apple TV Plus and is still not available in Canada. If you prefer a hassle-free experience without the need to use a VPN to access high-quality shows, Apple TV Plus can be a better option.

Hulu

Unlike Apple TV Plus, Hulu primarily focuses on bringing in more content from other reputable studios, such as Max, Disney Plus, and Showtime. This gives Hulu the edge in terms of offering an extensive range of entertainment options. But like Max, it is still geo-restricted in Canada and is relatively pricier than Apple TV Plus.

Amazon Prime Video

Prime Video is one of the earliest streaming platforms in the market, offering several other services such as Amazon Music and Ebooks. It has produced several critically acclaimed original content during the past years, like “The Boys,” “Fleabag,” and “Jury Duty.” Prime Video also has the biggest content library and houses visual treats from other networks. It also offers video-on-demand services for thousands of movies and films.

Disney Plus

If you’re a big fan of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Disney, Star Wars, or Pixar films, then Disney Plus might just be the platform you’re looking for. Almost every film and TV show from the aforementioned studios can be found at Disney Plus. Disney Plus will soon merge with Hulu, so its library is about to get even bigger. It is relatively more expensive than Apple TV Plus, with a basic plan starting at $11.99.

Peacock TV

Peacock TV is a video streaming service based in the United States, owned and operated by NBC Universal, offering popular shows like 30 Rock and having exclusive access to sports coverage like Premier League soccer matches. Sadly, for now, the service is only available in the US, but users outside of the US can still use a VPN.

Paramount Plus

Despite having a massive library of content, Paramount Plus still has one of the most affordable membership plans among its competitors. With a Paramount Plus subscription, you will get to access 30,000 original titles, blockbuster movies, on-demand programming, and live event streaming, which is undoubtedly worth your money. The streaming service also offers occasional discounts to users who subscribe to its annual plans.

YouTube TV

YouTube TV is a live TV streaming service owned by Google that offers a good selection of local and international channels depending on your location. Unlike most other platforms, YouTube TV offers features such as the ability to record shows and watch them later. However, it is only available in the United States, though you can bypass this restriction by using some of the best VPN services.

Discovery Plus

Discovery Plus Canada is a great way to watch your favorite shows, movies, and documentaries, including channels like Discovery, TLC, Animal Planet, and many more. You can watch Discovery Plus in Canada by visiting their site and signing up for an account or by using a Canadian version of the app that was released in October. And if you want to watch the American version of Discovery Plus, you can use a VPN.

Sling TV

Sling TV is a live streaming service that provides access to select channels for a monthly price fee. The service offers various packages such as ESPN, AMC, TNT, HGTV, HBO, and Cinemax. Sling TV can be watched outside of the US by using a VPN, which will allow you to stream Sling TV content without any restrictions.

ESPN Plus

ESPN Plus gives you access to world-class sporting events and live streams across a variety of sports. While the main ESPN channel has the best coverage for NHL, MLB, and NBA. Also, ESPN Plus excels in its coverage of niche sports such as MMA, Boxing, Lacrosse, Canadian Football, and many more. Sadly, ESPN+ is not currently available for Canadians.

Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Disney Plus

What’s the difference between Apple TV and Apple TV Plus?

Apple TV Plus is a streaming video service developed by Apple Inc. Apple TV, on the other hand, is a set-top box or streaming device that allows users to access various streaming services, including Apple TV Plus.

Can I watch Apple TV on non-Apple devices?

Yes, Apple TV Plus is accessible on devices including smart TVs, web browsers, game consoles, and streaming devices like Roku and Amazon Fire TV.

Can I sign up for Apple TV Plus without Apple ID?

No, an Apple ID is required to register for an Apple TV Plus membership.

Can I create an Apple ID even if I don’t use an Apple device?

No, Apple IDs are exclusively designed for devices with Apple’s ecosystem like iPhones, iPads, and Mac computers.

Quality Over Quantity

Apple TV Plus is not the ideal streaming service for those who wish to binge-watch their beloved classic shows for the umpteenth time. But if you value innovative storytelling, standard production values, and outstanding performances from the most recognizable faces in Hollywood, then Apple TV Plus is the right choice for you. At an affordable price, Apple TV Plus promises its users a smooth streaming experience. Its curated collection of carefully crafted original shows, movies, and documentaries ensures an engaging content selection that you can enjoy with a high-quality video and sound resolution that helps audiences immerse themselves in stunning visuals and crisp audio.