Does Apple TV have ads? Is there an ad-supported version?
Does Apple TV have ads? Is there an ad-supported version?
Apple’s streaming service has always prioritized a premium feel, but does that extend to leaving out commercials?
Apple TV has always walked to the beat of its own drum, and the streamer shows no signs of changing any time soon. Licensed titles remain a rarity on Apple TV; the streamer still prefers to keep its library mostly stocked with original TV shows and movies that are usually headlined by big-name Hollywood performers.
So, what about the ad experience on Apple TV? Does the streamer force viewers to watch commercials with its originals, and what kind of upgrades are needed to go ad-free? We’ll explain everything a first-time subscriber needs to know about ads on Apple TV below.
What you need to know about watching ads on Apple TV
Does Apple TV have ads during playback?
No! Apple TV is actually the last holdout among American streaming services when it comes to ad-supported plans. It’s the only streamer that has not launched an ad plan of any kind yet; the only subscription tier on Apple TV is its ad-free plan for $15 per month. Viewers will see a pre-roll commercial for other Apple TV titles before beginning playback of their chosen show or movie on Apple TV, but even this is skippable.
There is one major caveat to be aware of, however: Apple TV offers a range of sporting events, including weekly MLB doubleheaders on Friday nights, every MLS game of the season, and [F1] races and practice sessions. These live streams are accompanied by ads, and there is no way to disable ads while watching them.
Are there any drawbacks to Apple TV’s lack of ads?
Some viewers may look at the price of an Apple TV subscription as a bit of a drawback. As mentioned, Apple TV’s sole plan costs $15 per month, and only offering the one subscription tier means viewers don’t get the choice of saving a little money to watch ads during the playback of on-demand content.
On the other hand, it’s fair to point out that most streaming services — including Disney+, HBO Max, Hulu, Netflix, and Peacock — now charge more than $15 per month for ad-free subscriptions. Apple TV may not have a catalog as large as these services, but it’s still one of the least expensive ad-free streaming plans overall.
Will Apple TV launch an ad plan in the future?
Apple has made moves here and there that have led to speculation that an ad-supported version of Apple TV was coming at some point. However, the company has made no official announcements to indicate that an ad plan is even under consideration, so for now, viewers can expect the streamer to maintain the status quo. If that changes, The Streamable will keep you informed with all the details!
Apple TV
Apple TV (formerly known as Apple TV+) is a subscription video streaming service for $14.99 per month, offering a growing slate of original series, films, documentaries, and specials. Unlike other platforms that combine licensed titles with originals, Apple TV is built entirely around exclusive programming, making it the home of critically acclaimed hits such as “Ted Lasso,” “Severance,” “The Morning Show,” and “Silo.” Its lineup continues to expand with award-winning dramas, comedies, family-friendly shows, and blockbuster original films like “CODA,” which won the Academy Award for Best Picture.