Apple’s streaming platform provides captivating shows at an attractive price, but there are ways to enhance your savings.
For television enthusiasts, Apple TV+ has quietly assembled an impressive array of new shows. Featuring everything from chilling thrillers like Widow’s Bay to touching comedies such as Shrinking, Apple’s streaming service boasts a collection of noteworthy content that justifies adding yet another subscription.
The competition in the streaming landscape is fierce for viewers and their money. Initially, the shift away from cable promised the ideal mix of affordable subscriptions, limitless content, and crucially, no advertisements. However, many audiences feel that the migration to streaming hasn’t fulfilled these expectations. With the extravagant spending phase coming to an end and companies reconsidering their strategies, many platforms have increased fees, introduced ads, and prioritized algorithms over quality programming. Navigating this entertainment landscape, finding the best value for your streaming service becomes both a financial and artistic goal.
Apple is proactively enhancing its appeal to viewers on its streaming platform. Despite a price increase last year, users can optimize their subscriptions through bundles, unique features, family sharing options, and an array of live events. Now is the time to make the most of Apple TV+.
Ways to Save on Apple TV+
First and foremost, let’s talk about your budget. An Apple TV+ subscription costs $12.99 per month. Although this is a $3 increase from the previous rate, it remains more affordable than many competing ad-free options, with platforms such as Netflix, HBO Max, Hulu, and Disney+ charging between $17 and $20 monthly.
Apple allows up to five family members to share one subscription. While the Family Sharing feature is a bit more complex than just sending your lazy brother the password whenever a new episode of Severance is available, it also enables sharing purchases like apps, movies, and audiobooks. Keep in mind, the account holder will be responsible for any purchases made through Apple TV+, so you might want to think twice before adding a cousin with a passion for niche anime.
If commitment isn’t your strong suit, there are several avenues to experience Apple TV+ for free. For instance, the platform offers a seven-day trial for binge-watchers. Additionally, if you purchase an iPhone, MacBook, iPad, Apple Watch, or Apple TV 4K, you can receive up to three months of free access.
Students can take advantage of a special Student Plan, providing access to both Apple TV and Apple Music for just $5.99 a month, with an extended one-month trial period instead of the usual seven days.
Apple enthusiasts can save further by opting for Apple One, ideal for those entrenched in the Apple ecosystem. This plan includes four services: Apple TV+, Apple Music, Apple Arcade, and 50GB of iCloud storage for $19.95, yielding a monthly savings of $12. The Apple One subscription can also be shared with five family members for $25.95 per month, with access to 200GB of iCloud+ storage. For $37.95, the Premier plan adds Fitness+, News+, and 2TB of cloud storage, and users can try Apple One free for 30 days.
Apple TV+ Bundles
To further enhance your streaming value, Apple presents various bundling options. Last year, Apple teamed up with NBCUniversal, allowing Apple TV+ subscribers to add Peacock for just an additional $2. Peacock features popular shows like The Office, The Paper, Love Island, live sports, and the Shrek franchise, making it a solid addition to your entertainment lineup. At a cost of $14.99, it still undercuts many standalone subscription options.
For an extra $5, you can include an ad-free Amazon Prime subscription, which effectively gives you three streaming platforms for the price of one Netflix account. What you do with those savings is entirely your choice.
If you’re not keen on covering the cost of your own subscription, some companies offer complimentary Apple TV access for their customers. For instance, Chase Sapphire Reserve cardholders enjoy free access to both Apple’s streaming and music services. T-Mobile customers can add Apple TV+ for a monthly fee of $3, and certain internet providers have started bundling services, with offerings that group Apple TV+ with HBO, Netflix, Peacock, and Hulu.
Streaming Live Sports with Apple
Apple doesn’t just offer enthralling series; it’s also the venue for America’s fastest-growing spectator sport: Formula 1. Last year, Apple secured a groundbreaking $750 million deal to become the exclusive broadcaster of the races for the next five years. Their coverage includes all practice sessions, Sprints, and qualifiers, along with the main events, complemented by exclusive behind-the-scenes content, including Netflix’s popular series, Drive to Survive. If you’re an F1 fan, check out the blockbuster film featuring Brad Pitt on the platform.
As we discuss Apple’s coverage of the world’s most popular sport, don’t forget the World Cup. In 2022, Apple made a significant deal with Major League Soccer (MLS) to stream all their games, allowing subscribers to watch without blackouts, including the Leagues Cup and Audi MLS Cup Playoffs. Interestingly, MLS season ticket holders can obtain a complimentary subscription through their clubs for more information.
Baseball fans can catch the notable Friday Night Baseball series on Apple TV, featuring two double-header broadcasts each week without the usual local broadcast restrictions. If you’re reading this during the start of the MLB season, watch out for free trials, as broadcasters often extend offers at the season’s onset.
Pairing Apple TV with the previously mentioned bundles can significantly enhance your sports viewing experience. Subscriptions through Peacock and Amazon provide access to the NFL, international soccer, golf, Olympic sports, NBA, and more.
