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Apple TV and Apple Music: Untangling the Streaming Web

No, Apple TV is NOT included with Apple Music. These are separate subscription services offered by Apple, each providing distinct forms of entertainment. Apple Music focuses on audio entertainment, while Apple TV delivers video content.

Deciphering Apple’s Subscription Ecosystem

The modern streaming landscape can feel like a tangled web, and Apple’s offerings are no exception. While both Apple Music and Apple TV fall under the Apple umbrella, they function independently. Understanding their specific features and subscription models is key to navigating the Apple ecosystem effectively. Let’s dive deeper into what each service offers and how to access them.

Apple Music: Your All-Access Pass to Audio

Apple Music provides access to a vast library of over 100 million songs, ad-free listening, offline downloads, live radio stations, and original content. It’s your go-to for streaming music, podcasts (partially – Apple has a separate Podcasts app as well), and curated playlists. You can access Apple Music on various devices, including iPhones, iPads, Macs, Android devices, smart speakers, and even through web browsers.

Apple TV: Beyond the Device – Streaming Entertainment

Apple TV, on the other hand, is a streaming service offering a curated selection of TV shows, movies, and original content produced by Apple itself, known as Apple TV+. This is where shows like “Ted Lasso,” “The Morning Show,” and “Severance” reside. While you can watch Apple TV+ content through the Apple TV app on various devices, including smart TVs, Roku, and Amazon Fire Stick, the core subscription focuses on video entertainment. It’s also important to differentiate Apple TV+ from the Apple TV device, a separate hardware box that enhances your viewing experience.

FAQs: Demystifying Apple TV and Apple Music

Here are 12 frequently asked questions to further clarify the relationship (or lack thereof) between Apple TV and Apple Music and help you navigate the Apple subscription landscape:

1. What devices can I use to access Apple Music?

You can enjoy Apple Music on a wide range of devices, including:

iPhones, iPads, and iPod Touch devices
Mac computers
Android smartphones and tablets
Windows PCs (through iTunes)
Apple Watch (with cellular connectivity for streaming without your phone)
Apple TV device (for listening to music on your TV)
Smart speakers like the Apple HomePod and Amazon Echo devices (via Alexa integration)
Sonos speakers
Web browsers (accessing Apple Music via music.apple.com)
Select Smart TVs

2. How do I subscribe to Apple Music?

Subscribing to Apple Music is straightforward:

On your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch: Open the Music app and tap on the offer for a free trial (if available). Follow the on-screen instructions to choose a subscription plan and enter your Apple ID information.
On your Mac: Open the Music app and go to Account > Subscribe or Try it Free.
On your Android device: Download the Apple Music app from the Google Play Store, launch the app, and follow the instructions.
On a Windows PC: Download and install iTunes, then open the app and go to Account > Subscribe or Try it Free.
Via the web: Visit music.apple.com and click on the “Try it free” button in the top right corner.

3. What Apple Music subscription plans are available?

Apple Music offers several subscription plans to cater to different needs:

Voice Plan: The most affordable option, offering access to Apple Music exclusively through Siri voice commands. Limited features compared to other plans.
Individual Plan: A standard plan for single users, providing full access to the Apple Music library and features.
Family Plan: Allows up to six family members to share an Apple Music subscription under one account. Each member gets their own personal library and recommendations.
Student Plan: A discounted plan for eligible students, offering the same features as the Individual Plan at a lower price. Requires verification of student status.

4. What devices can I use to access Apple TV+?

You can watch Apple TV+ on a variety of devices:

Apple TV device
iPhones, iPads, and iPod Touch devices
Mac computers
Select Smart TVs (LG, Samsung, Sony, Vizio, etc.)
Roku streaming devices
Amazon Fire TV devices
Chromecast with Google TV
PlayStation and Xbox gaming consoles
Web browsers (accessing tv.apple.com)

5. How do I subscribe to Apple TV+?

Subscribing to Apple TV+ is a simple process:

On your iPhone, iPad, or Apple TV device: Open the Apple TV app and tap on the Apple TV+ tab.
On a Smart TV or streaming device: Download the Apple TV app from the device’s app store.
Via the web: Visit tv.apple.com.

Follow the on-screen instructions to start a free trial (if available) and subscribe.

6. What is the difference between Apple TV and Apple TV+?

This is a crucial distinction:

Apple TV is a hardware device – a small set-top box that connects to your TV and provides access to streaming services, including Apple TV+. It’s similar to a Roku or Amazon Fire TV.
Apple TV+ is a subscription streaming service offering original TV shows, movies, and documentaries produced by Apple. You can access Apple TV+ through the Apple TV app on various devices, even without owning an Apple TV device.

Think of it this way: Apple TV is the box, while Apple TV+ is the channel.

7. Is there an Apple One bundle that includes both Apple Music and Apple TV+?

Yes, Apple offers Apple One bundles that combine multiple Apple services into a single monthly subscription. These bundles offer significant cost savings compared to subscribing to each service individually. Several Apple One tiers include both Apple Music and Apple TV+, along with other services like iCloud storage, Apple Arcade (gaming), and Apple News+. The available bundles vary by region and may change over time. Check the Apple website for the most up-to-date information.

8. Can I get Apple TV+ for free with certain Apple device purchases?

Yes! Apple often includes a free trial of Apple TV+ with the purchase of a new Apple device, such as an iPhone, iPad, Mac, or Apple TV. The duration of the free trial can vary, so check the terms and conditions at the time of purchase. This is a great way to experience Apple TV+ without an immediate financial commitment.

9. Does Apple Music offer lossless or spatial audio?

Yes, Apple Music offers both lossless audio and spatial audio with Dolby Atmos for many tracks. Lossless audio provides a higher-fidelity listening experience, preserving more of the original recording’s detail. Spatial audio with Dolby Atmos creates a more immersive and three-dimensional soundscape, making you feel like you’re surrounded by the music. These features are available to all Apple Music subscribers at no extra cost.

10. Can I download music from Apple Music for offline listening?

Absolutely! One of the key benefits of Apple Music is the ability to download songs, albums, and playlists for offline listening. This is perfect for when you’re traveling, commuting, or in areas with limited internet connectivity. Simply tap the download button next to the content you want to save, and it will be stored on your device for offline playback.

11. Can I share my Apple Music or Apple TV+ subscription with my family?

Yes, both Apple Music (through the Family Plan) and Apple TV+ support family sharing. This allows up to six family members to access the service with their own individual accounts, libraries, and recommendations. Family sharing is a convenient and cost-effective way to provide entertainment for the entire household.

12. How do I cancel my Apple Music or Apple TV+ subscription?

Cancelling your Apple Music or Apple TV+ subscription is a straightforward process:

On your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch: Go to Settings > [Your Name] > Subscriptions.
On your Mac: Open the App Store, click your name or the sign-in button at the bottom of the sidebar, then click “View Information” at the top of the window. Scroll down to “Subscriptions” and click “Manage.”
On the web: Go to appleid.apple.com, sign in, and click “Subscriptions” in the sidebar.

Find the subscription you want to cancel and follow the on-screen instructions. Remember to cancel at least 24 hours before your next billing date to avoid being charged.

In conclusion, while Apple Music and Apple TV+ are distinct services, understanding their individual features and the Apple One bundling options can help you curate the perfect entertainment package for your needs. Enjoy streaming!