The fastest way to get Apple TV on your TV
Most smart TVs come with the Apple TV app already built in, or you can find it in your TV's app store within a few minutes. If your TV is a Samsung, LG, Google TV, Roku, or Amazon Fire TV model made in the last five years, open your TV's app store, search for "Apple TV", and select Install. The app will download and appear on your home screen.
If your TV doesn't have the Apple TV app available, you have two other routes: connect an external device like an Apple TV box, Roku, or Fire Stick that supports the app, or use AirPlay to mirror or cast from an iPhone, iPad, or Mac. The method you choose depends on what hardware you already own and how often you plan to use Apple TV.
Key Takeaways
- Samsung, LG, Google TV, Roku, and Fire TV devices have the Apple TV app built into their app stores and can be installed in under five minutes.
- Older TVs or less common brands may not support the Apple TV app, but you can use an external device like Apple TV, Roku, or Fire Stick instead.
- You need an Apple ID to sign in after installing the app, whether the app is built into your TV or running on an external device.
- AirPlay lets you stream from an iPhone, iPad, or Mac to any compatible smart TV without installing a separate app.
Installing Apple TV from your TV's app store
Open your TV's app store using the remote. On Samsung TVs, this is called the Samsung App Store. On LG TVs, it's called LG Content Store. On Google TV and Roku devices, look for the app store or channel store icon on the home screen. On Fire TV, select the search icon and type "Apple TV".
Search for "Apple TV" in the store. Select the official Apple TV app — it has the black background with the white Apple TV+ logo. Press Install or Download. The app will appear on your home screen or in your apps list within a minute or two. Open it, sign in with your Apple ID, and you're ready to watch.
If you see a message that the app is not available in your region or on your device, your TV model does not support the Apple TV app. Move to the external device section below.
Using an external device if your TV doesn't have the app
If the Apple TV app is not available for your TV, you can plug in a separate device that runs it. An Apple TV box (the small black device made by Apple) runs tvOS and has the Apple TV app built in. A Roku device or Amazon Fire Stick also has the Apple TV app available in their app stores. You can also use a Google Chromecast with Google TV, which runs Google TV and supports the Apple TV app.
Connect the device to your TV using an HDMI cable, plug it into power, and follow the setup steps on screen. Once it's set up, open the app store on the device, search for Apple TV, and install it the same way you would on a TV. These devices typically cost between $30 and $200 depending on the model and features.
Casting from your phone or tablet using AirPlay
If you own an iPhone, iPad, or Mac, you can use AirPlay to send video from Apple TV+ directly to your TV without installing an app on the TV itself. Open the Apple TV app on your phone or tablet, start playing something, and tap the AirPlay icon (it looks like a triangle with lines underneath). Select your TV from the list.
Your TV must support AirPlay 2 for this to work. Most Samsung, LG, and Google TV models made after 2018 support it, as do newer Roku and Fire TV devices. If your TV doesn't appear in the AirPlay menu, check your TV's settings to make sure AirPlay is turned on, or use an external device instead.
Signing in with your Apple ID
After the app is installed and open, you'll see a sign-in screen. Enter your Apple ID (the email address you use for iCloud or iTunes) and your password. If you have two-factor authentication turned on for your Apple ID, you'll need to approve the sign-in from another device or enter a verification code.
Once you're signed in, the app will show you your library, recommendations, and any subscriptions you have. If you don't have an Apple ID yet, you can create one for free on Apple's website before signing in to the app.
Troubleshooting when the app won't install
If the app store says the app is not available, your TV model or brand does not support it. Check your TV's manual or the manufacturer's website to confirm. If it's not supported, an external device is your only option.
If the app installs but won't open, restart your TV by unplugging it for 30 seconds, then plugging it back in. If it still won't open, check that your TV has the latest software update. Go to Settings, then System or About, and look for a Software Update option. Install any available updates and try opening the app again.
If you're having trouble signing in, make sure you're using the correct Apple ID and password. If you've forgotten your password, visit iforgot.apple.com to reset it before trying to sign in again on your TV.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to pay to download the Apple TV app?
No, the app itself is free to download and install. You only pay if you want to subscribe to Apple TV+, which is Apple's streaming service. You can use the app to rent or buy individual movies and shows without a subscription.
Can I use the same Apple ID on multiple TVs?
Yes, you can sign in with the same Apple ID on as many devices as you want. Your library and watch history will sync across all of them, so you can start watching on one TV and pick up where you left off on another.
What if my TV is very old and doesn't support the app?
You'll need an external device like a Roku, Fire Stick, Apple TV box, or Google Chromecast with Google TV. These plug into your TV's HDMI port and give your TV access to the Apple TV app even if the TV itself doesn't support it.
Does AirPlay work if my phone and TV are on different WiFi networks?
No, both devices must be on the same WiFi network for AirPlay to work. If they're on different networks, use the app store method instead or connect them to the same network.