Apple TV+ has rapidly become one of the leading streaming platforms in the world. With award-winning shows like Ted Lasso, The Morning Show, and Severance, Apple TV+ is competing head-to-head with industry giants like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video. If you’re considering subscribing but aren’t ready to commit financially just yet, there’s good news—you can take advantage of an Apple TV free trial that lasts up to three months. This guide covers everything you need to know about getting a 3-month Apple TV free trial and ensures that the process is both easy and legitimate.
What Is Apple TV+?
Apple TV+ is Apple’s dedicated streaming service, launched in November 2019. It focuses on original programming and does not include content from other streaming platforms. You’ll find exclusive Apple Originals ranging from dramas and comedies to documentaries and kids’ programming.
This service is available in over 100 countries and can be accessed through a number of devices including Apple devices (iPhones, iPads, Macs and Apple TV), smart TVs, gaming consoles, and even some Android phones through a web browser.
How Long Is the Apple TV+ Free Trial?
Apple offers a standard 7-day free trial for all new subscribers. However, there are ways to extend that trial up to 3 months—legitimately and without paying a dime. Below, we break down what those methods are and how you can make the most of each opportunity.
Method 1: Get 3 Months Free with a New Apple Device
When you purchase a new Apple product that qualifies—such as an iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, or Mac—you’ll get three months of Apple TV+ free. This offer is perhaps the easiest and most common way to enjoy a 3-month trial.
Steps to Redeem:
- Buy a new qualifying Apple device.
- Set up the device using your Apple ID.
- Open the Apple TV app on the new device.
- A prompt will appear offering a 3-month free trial—tap the option to redeem.
Important: You must redeem this offer within 90 days of activating your new Apple device, so don’t wait too long.
Method 2: Use Promotional Offers from Apple Partners
Another way to get a 3-month Apple TV+ free trial is through promotional partnerships Apple has established. Companies like PlayStation, T-Mobile, Best Buy, and Roku have previously offered limited-time promotions that give their customers free Apple TV+ trials.
Examples include:
- PlayStation 5: If you own a PS5, Apple has offered a 6-month free trial through the Apple TV app on the PlayStation console.
- Best Buy: Occasionally offers redeemable codes for a 3-month trial through purchases or as an add-on to certain products.
To take advantage of these, you’ll usually need to go to the partner’s website and follow a few simple instructions to claim your free trial. Be sure to read the terms and conditions of such offers, as they differ in duration and eligibility.
Method 3: Use Apple One or Bundled Services
If you’re planning to subscribe to other Apple services like iCloud+, Apple Music, or Apple Arcade, consider subscribing to Apple One. This bundle includes Apple TV+ and often comes with a one-month trial across all services.
Although not a full 3-month trial, it may be beneficial if you’re already using multiple Apple services and want to consolidate your subscriptions.
Who Is Eligible for the Apple TV+ Free Trial?
Eligibility for a 3-month trial typically depends on a few factors including:
- You must be a new subscriber.
- You haven’t previously used an Apple TV+ free trial on your Apple ID.
- For the device-related 3-month offer, your Apple ID must not have used the device offer before.
If you’ve previously subscribed or exhausted your trial, you may not be eligible again using the same Apple ID. However, some users create a new Apple ID to try the service again. While this isn’t officially supported, it has worked for some but carries risks, such as issues with existing app purchases or subscriptions.
How to Cancel After the Free Trial
Apple TV+ will automatically start charging your account once the trial ends. If you decide not to continue, make sure to cancel before the end of the trial period to avoid being charged. Here’s how to cancel:
On iPhone or iPad:
- Go to Settings.
- Tap your Apple ID name at the top.
- Select Subscriptions.
- Tap Apple TV+ and choose Cancel Subscription.
On Mac:
- Open the App Store and click on your name at the bottom of the sidebar.
- Choose View Information.
- Scroll to Manage under Subscriptions and click on Apple TV+.
- Click Cancel Subscription.
Always double-check the date your trial ends to ensure cancellation in time.
Maximizing Your Trial Period
If you’re planning to make the most out of your Apple TV+ experience during the trial, here are a few tips:
- Plan in Advance: Make a watchlist of shows you want to catch. Apple Originals often have full seasons available, so binge-watching is easy.
- Share with Family: You can share your Apple TV+ subscription with up to five other people using Apple Family Sharing—a great way for households to enjoy the service together even during the trial.
- Set a Reminder: Place an event on your calendar a day or two before the trial ends so you can evaluate whether to continue or cancel.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Despite Apple’s user-friendly ecosystem, a few common mistakes can prevent you from getting the 3-month trial:
- Not using a new Apple ID: If you’ve previously used a trial under your account, you won’t be eligible again.
- Missing the redemption window: You only have 90 days after setting up a new device to redeem the 3-month offer.
- Ignoring promotional deadlines: Partner promotions are time-sensitive and often available for only a few weeks or months.
Conclusion
The Apple TV+ 3-month free trial is a fantastic opportunity to explore high-quality content without financial commitment. Whether you’ve just purchased a new Apple device or are able to take advantage of a promotional code from a retail partner, getting three months of Apple TV+ for free is 100% doable by following the methods discussed above.
By being proactive and well-informed, you can enjoy premium streaming content from Apple, risk-free. Just remember to set a calendar reminder for the end of your trial and make a decision before the subscription fee kicks in. Happy streaming!