Apple sometimes makes it difficult when it comes to names, a good example of this is the Apple TV, Apple TV+ and the Apple TV app. Three times Apple TV, but three times different.
Using the same name over and over can be confusing for consumers. We briefly explain to you what each service or product means, so that you know what the differences are.
Apple TV: physical media player
The Apple TV is a physical media player that you can connect to your TV with an HDMI cable. You can start all kinds of apps and consult your favorite streaming apps via the media player. The Apple TV offers support for, among other things, 4K Dolby Vision, HDR10+ and Dolby Atmos.
The included Siri Remote (3rd generation) with USB-C has a touch-sensitive clickpad that makes it very easy to operate your Apple TV 4K. You can also just use your voice. In addition, Apple TV 4K works as a home hub, giving you control over all your favorite smart home accessories.
Apple TV app
The Apple TV app, TV app for short, was specially developed by Apple and can be found as standard on the Apple TV. With Apple’s TV app, the company wants to link multiple streaming functions and services to one App. The application gives you direct access to your personal video library, Apple TV+, TV channels and the iTunes movies that were previously only available in the iTunes Store application.
The application is divided into several tabs including Watch Now, Originals, Sports and Store. By using different categories such as Trending, Now for rent and New you can discover new films and series. Via the search tab it is possible to immediately look for that one film or series.
Because the TV app replaces the previous Video app, you can find previously purchased films via the Library tab. The films you rent can also be found here. You will also find the purchases of your family members here. Good to know, the TV app is not only available on the Apple TV, but also on other platforms (more info).
Apple TV+
Apple has started producing its own series and films for the first time with Apple TV+. This is exclusive content that is only available via the Apple TV app can be viewed. The Originals are housed in the tv+ service and can actually be seen as a kind of TV channel. To view the media you must be in possession of a valid subscription and the Apple TV app.
Apple TV+ is a special category in the Apple TV app and only in this section you can subscribe. In the TV app you will also find films from other production companies, these are the iTunes Movies and you still have to pay for these, so they are not covered by the TV+ subscription. We have explained exactly how this works here.
If you subscribe to tv+ you get unlimited access to all Apple Originals series and films during the term of your subscription. Almost all Apple Original series and films are filmed in 4K, support Dolby Atmos, Dobly Vision and subtitles with audio description.