Hey there! Have you heard about some of the great shows on Apple TV+ like Ted Lasso and Severance but don‘t actually own any Apple devices? Well, I‘ve got good news for you – it‘s totally possible to watch Apple TV+ on your Roku device!
In this step-by-step guide, I‘ll walk you through exactly how to access Apple‘s streaming service on your Roku TV or streaming stick. I‘ll also compare the pros and cons of using Roku versus an Apple TV box. Follow along below and you‘ll be watching top Apple originals in no time!
According to Roku, their streaming platform currently reaches an estimated 100 million people in the U.S. alone. With Apple TV+ supported on Roku, their hit shows suddenly become accessible to a massive new audience.
But why would someone want to watch on Roku compared to using an Apple TV 4K or HD box? Here‘s a quick rundown of the advantages:
Cost Savings – The Roku Express HD streaming stick retails for just $29.99 whereas the 2021 Apple TV 4K box starts at $179. That‘s an 85% savings by using your existing Roku!
Flexibility – Roku users can install thousands of streaming channels compared to just Apple‘s apps on their TV boxes. Plus, Roku offers models specifically designed for older TVs lacking HDMI.
4K HDR – Apple TV+ originals like For All Mankind can stream in stunning 4K resolution with HDR color on supported Roku devices. The Apple TV HD box still doesn‘t offer 4K.
Platform Agnostic – Roku makes Apple TV+ finally accessible to Android smartphone and Windows PC owners. Apple TV boxes limit you to Apple‘s ecosystem.
Sold on accessing Apple TV+ from Roku? Let‘s get started with the step-by-step process:
Step 1: Turn On Your Roku and TV
Make sure your Roku streaming device or Roku TV is powered on and connected to your television‘s HDMI port. You‘ll see the familiar Roku home screen with app icons.
Tip: For Roku sticks, make sure your TV input is switched to the correct HDMI. You may need to use the "Input" or "Source" button on your TV‘s remote.
Step 2: Access the Roku Channel Store
From the Roku home screen, use your remote to highlight and select the "Streaming Channels" option on the left side of the screen. This will open the Roku Channel Store.
The Channel Store lets you search, browse, and install new streaming channels from major apps like Apple TV+, HBO Max, Netflix, and more.
Step 3: Search for the Apple TV Channel
With the Channel Store open, use your Roku remote to select the magnifying glass icon in the menu bar. This will open a search box.
Type in "Apple TV+" using the on-screen keyboard that pops up. Highlight "Search" and the Apple TV+ channel should appear as a top result.
Pro Tip: If you subscribe to Apple services like Apple Music, the Apple TV+ channel may already be installed on your home screen!
Step 4: Install the Apple TV+ Channel
Select the Apple TV+ icon from the search results. On the channel details screen, choose "Add Channel" to install Apple TV+ on your Roku device.
Already subscribed to Apple TV+? Just log in with your Apple ID and no additional charges will be incurred. New users can start a free 7-day trial upon sign up.
Step 5: Sign in and Start Browsing Apple TV+ Shows
After adding the channel, you‘ll be prompted to sign in with your Apple ID. Enter your email and password or select "Try It Free" to access a trial membership.
Once signed in, you‘ll see the Apple TV+ home screen showing all their exclusive original shows and movies like Ted Lasso, Mythic Quest, and The Morning Show ready for streaming!
Use your Roku remote to navigate and select any show or movie you want to watch. Enjoy Apple TV+ originals on your TV with your existing Roku device.
But How Does Roku for Apple TV+ Compare to the Apple TV Box?
Now that you know how to access Apple TV+ through Roku, how does the experience compare to using an Apple TV HD or 4K box? Let‘s break it down:
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Price – Roku streaming sticks start at $29.99 versus $149 for the Apple TV HD. The newest Apple TV 4K box is $179.
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Specs – The Apple TV 4K supports Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and Dolby Atmos audio. Only premium Roku models match those specs.
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Original Content – Apple TV+ and Apple Arcade games are only on Apple TV boxes. But Roku has thousands more channels.
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Streaming Quality – Video quality depends on your Roku model. Apple TV boxes offer consistent 4K HDR streaming.
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Interface – Apple TV uses tvOS with dedicated remote. Roku offers customization options on their smart TV interface.
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Mirroring – Only the Apple TV box allows wireless mirroring from iOS devices via AirPlay. Roku only works with screen mirroring through mobile apps.
So while Apple TV hardware offers impressive capabilities exclusively for Apple ecosystem users, Roku provides more flexibility and channel options at a lower price point.
The choice ultimately depends on your budget, existing tech, and preferred streaming selection. But for accessing Apple TV+ alone, Roku provides everything you need at a wallet-friendly price.
I hope this guide helped explain exactly how to watch Apple TV+ shows on your Roku device! Let me know if you have any other questions. Enjoy streaming all your new favorite Apple originals.
