Apple TV has evolved over the years into a robust set-top streaming box and entertainment hub. With modern Apple TV models like the Apple TV 4K and Apple TV HD, users can now download a wide variety of apps and access features like gaming, fitness, and more.
But if you‘re new to Apple TV, you may be wondering—how exactly do I download apps in the first place? Read on as we provide a step-by-step guide along with helpful photos.
What Models Support Downloading Apps?
Before we dive in, it‘s important to note that not all Apple TV models support downloading apps. Here‘s a quick breakdown:
- Apple TV HD (4th generation)—YES
- Apple TV 4K (1st, 2nd, and 3rd gen)—YES
- Apple TV (1st, 2nd, and 3rd gen)—NO
So if you own an original Apple TV through the 3rd generation, you won‘t be able to download any apps. The good news is that even the Apple TV HD from 2015 supports apps, so most somewhat recent models allow for app downloading.
Step 1: Navigate to the App Store
When you turn on your compatible Apple TV, the screen should default to the main menu or "home screen." This displays all your available apps in a tiled layout.
The App Store app should be in the top left corner, but if not, you can scroll down to find it. The icon looks like a blue background with a white "A" similar to the app icon on iPhone and iPad.
Select the App Store icon to open it.
Step 2: Browse Apps
This will launch the App Store where you can search and browse for apps you want to download.
There are a few ways to find apps:
- Use the search bar at the top to search for an app name
- Browse featured apps on the main page
- Select categories like Games, Entertainment, Health & Fitness etc. to discover new apps.
Tap into categories and keep selecting apps to drill down deeper. When you find one you want, select its icon.
Step 3: Download the App
On the app page, you‘ll see details like ratings, screenshots, and a description.
To download, simply tap the blue "Get" button on this page.
This will initiate the app download. The button will change to a cloud icon to indicate it is downloading.
Once finished, the button will change to "Open." You can now access and open the app from the home screen like any other installed app.
And that‘s it! Downloading apps on Apple TV is very straightforward once you get the hang of the App Store.
Tips for Managing Apple TV Apps
Here are some additional tips for managing your Apple TV apps after downloading:
- Update Apps – You can set apps to update automatically or manually update them by going to the Updates tab in App Store
- Rearrange – Long press on an app icon until they all start wiggling, then drag icons around
- Make Folders – Drag one app onto another to create a folder containing both apps
- Close Apps – Double click the TV button on your remote then swipe up to force quit open apps
What Apps Can You Download?
The Apple TV App Store offers over 20,000 apps (and growing) across a variety of categories:
- Streaming – Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, HBO Max etc.
- Games – Hundreds through Apple Arcade or standalone
- Fitness – Yoga, weight training, dance workouts
- Education – Language learning, flashcards, coding apps
- Lifestyle – Cooking, meditation, finance trackers and more
Most apps are free downloads or offer in-app purchases. Some popular paid apps can cost around $0.99 to $4.99.
While the app selection doesn‘t quite rival the 1.8+ million iOS apps, Apple TV still offers great variety. Streaming services and games are especially robust.
Pros and Cons of Apple TV App Support
Compared to earlier Apple TV generations, having full app download capabilities greatly improves the device‘s potential and convenience.
Pros include:
- Access apps natively rather than screen mirroring
- More entertainment/content options
- All apps designed for TV interface
- Great for centralizing streaming services
- Offers different use cases like gaming/fitness
Cons compared to other platforms:
- Smaller app selection versus iOS
- Some apps lack updates or full feature parity
- App store more limited versus Android TV selection
While there is room for improvement, the App Store makes modern Apple TVs into quite capable streaming boxes and entertainment hubs.
{{<youtube 9OyOo6ECcrU>}}
Check out this video walkthrough for additional tips on downloading apps to Apple TV.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about Apple TV app downloads:
How do you update Apple TV apps?
Apple TV can automatically or manually update apps from the Updates tab in the App Store. Enable auto updates in Settings or manually update apps one by one.
Can you rearrange Apple TV apps?
Yes, press and hold an app icon until they begin to wiggle, then drag icons around to rearrange.
How do you make Apple TV app folders?
Drag one app icon onto another to create a folder containing both of those apps.
Do Apple TV apps cost money?
Most apps are free downloads, but some premium paid apps can cost around $0.99 to $4.99. Many free apps also offer in-app purchases.
Download Apps and Take Full Advantage of Apple TV
Hopefully this guide gave you a better understanding of how to find and download apps on your Apple TV. The process is quick and intuitive once you get the hang of it.
With apps for streaming, gaming, lifestyle, and more, it opens up Apple TV to do far more than just watch movies. App downloading capabilities vastly expand an Apple TV‘s overall entertainment value.
So browse around for some fresh apps that catch your eye. Before you know it, you‘ll have a fully customized Apple TV experience catered to your needs and preferences.
