Apple TV has become a significant player in the world of streaming services, offering both hardware devices and an expanding content platform. With its sleek interface and integration with the Apple ecosystem, it provides users with access to a wide range of entertainment options. Apple TV+ continues to build an impressive library of original shows that are earning critical acclaim and attracting viewers worldwide.
For those looking to enhance their home entertainment setup or find their next binge-worthy series, understanding what Apple TV has to offer is essential. From award-winning programs to cutting-edge technology, Apple’s streaming solution aims to deliver premium experiences that compete with established industry leaders.
1. Severance
Severance stands out as a masterpiece in Apple TV+’s growing library of original content. This sci-fi thriller has captured viewers’ attention with its unique premise and exceptional execution.
The show follows employees at Lumon Industries who undergo a procedure called “severance,” which surgically separates their work memories from their personal lives. This innovative concept creates compelling storytelling opportunities that the series fully exploits.
Adam Scott leads a talented cast including Britt Lower and Patricia Arquette in this critically acclaimed production. Their performances bring depth to a story that explores identity, corporate control, and the boundaries between professional and personal lives.
Critics consistently praise Severance as the best show on Apple TV+. Many even consider it the best show on television since 2019’s Chernobyl.
The series has earned significant recognition in the industry, winning two Emmy awards. This success demonstrates both the show’s quality and Apple’s commitment to producing premium content.
Season 2 continues to expand the world of Severance. The new episodes deepen the lore and further explore the complex “Innie-Outie” dynamics that make the show so fascinating.
For many subscribers, Severance alone justifies the $9.99 monthly fee for Apple TV+. It represents the kind of indispensable content that streaming services need to remain competitive.
The show’s unique storyline draws comparisons to other thought-provoking series like The Leftovers. Its careful plot progression creates a viewing experience that’s both intellectually stimulating and emotionally engaging.
2. Ted Lasso
Ted Lasso has become one of Apple TV+’s most beloved shows since its debut. This heartwarming comedy stars Jason Sudeikis as an American football coach who moves to England to manage a struggling soccer team, despite having no experience with the sport.
The series has earned widespread acclaim for its positive messages and character development. With 11 Emmy awards under its belt, Ted Lasso has firmly established itself as a flagship program for Apple’s streaming service.
Fans have connected with the show’s optimistic approach to overcoming challenges. Ted’s relentless positivity and folksy wisdom provide a refreshing contrast to the cynicism often found in modern television.
The supporting cast enhances the show’s appeal with standout performances from Hannah Waddingham and Juno Temple. Their character arcs add emotional depth to the comedy, creating a well-rounded viewing experience.
All three seasons of Ted Lasso are currently available for streaming on Apple TV+. While once the platform’s undisputed top show, recent data suggests that Severance has now surpassed Ted Lasso as Apple TV+’s most popular program.
Despite this shift, Ted Lasso remains highly ranked among Apple TV+’s offerings. It continues to attract new viewers while maintaining a dedicated fan base that appreciates its unique blend of humor and heart.
The show’s influence extends beyond entertainment, inspiring discussions about leadership and mental health. Ted’s approach to coaching emphasizes personal growth alongside professional success, resonating with audiences from various backgrounds.
3. Mythic Quest
Mythic Quest is a standout comedy series on Apple TV+ that follows the team behind a fictional multiplayer video game. The show features a workplace setting where creators build worlds, mold heroes, and create legends for their popular game.
Despite its quality, Mythic Quest remains somewhat under the radar. The series has been called the best Apple TV Plus show you’re not watching, highlighting its status as a hidden gem on the platform.
The series has received critical acclaim, currently holding an impressive 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. This makes it one of Apple TV+’s highest-rated series, even though it sometimes struggles to chart on the platform’s top 10 list.
What sets Mythic Quest apart is its depth beyond typical workplace comedy tropes. The show isn’t afraid to dive deeply into character backgrounds, offering viewers more than just humor.
The series gained some recognition for its special COVID-19 episode, which was praised for its thoughtful approach to the pandemic. This special demonstrated the show’s ability to balance comedy with meaningful storytelling.
The ensemble cast works together to create a compelling “island of misfit employees” dynamic that resonates with viewers. Their interactions feel authentic while remaining consistently entertaining.
For those interested in the gaming industry or workplace comedies in general, Mythic Quest offers a fresh perspective with smart writing and strong performances. The show continues to build its audience through word of mouth as more viewers discover its unique charm.
4. For All Mankind
For All Mankind stands out as one of the best shows on Apple TV+. This drama series presents an alternate history that explores what might have happened if the Soviet Union had reached the moon before the United States.
The show stars Joel Kinnaman, Toby Kebbell, and Krys Marshall, creating a compelling ensemble that brings this alternate timeline to life. Many viewers have noted that the series gets better with each season.
What makes For All Mankind special is its thoughtful approach to storytelling. Critics have praised it as the most nuanced and exquisite show on television, immersing viewers so completely that they forget about their own reality.
The series takes a “what if” approach to history, creating an engaging alternate timeline of space exploration. This unique premise allows the show to explore both technological advancement and human relationships in fascinating ways.
Despite its quality, For All Mankind remains somewhat of a hidden gem. Many viewers who finally give it a chance report that it’s the best content they’ve seen in years, suggesting it deserves more attention than it currently receives.
The production values are outstanding, with realistic space sequences and detailed set designs that transport viewers to this alternative history. The attention to historical detail, even as it diverges from our timeline, creates a believable world.
For subscribers looking for thought-provoking content on Apple TV+, For All Mankind offers a perfect blend of drama, science fiction, and historical speculation. Its unique premise and strong execution make it an essential watch for anyone with access to the streaming service.
5. Silo
Silo stands out as one of the most compelling offerings on Apple TV+. This dystopian sci-fi series follows the last people on Earth who live in a massive underground bunker.
The show stars Rebecca Ferguson, Tim Robbins, and Common in a story that blends mystery with science fiction. Silo’s consistent quality has impressed viewers, with Ferguson delivering a standout performance.
What makes Silo special is its intricate yet accessible storyline. The narrative revolves around a society living in a giant underground silo, unaware of why they’re there or what happened to the outside world.
Many critics consider it the best dystopian series in recent years. The show maintains suspense while building a believable underground civilization with its own rules and customs.
The production values on Silo are exceptional. The detailed set design creates a claustrophobic yet lived-in world that feels authentic and immersive.
Mystery is the driving force behind the show’s success. More than its sci-fi elements, the constant questions about why these people live underground and what lies outside keep viewers engaged.
Apple TV+ has committed to the series with a multi-season plan. This allows the storytelling to develop at an appropriate pace without rushing important plot points.
For Apple TV+ subscribers seeking thought-provoking entertainment, Silo offers a perfect blend of character development and world-building. The show raises questions about society, control, and human nature.
New viewers can stream all episodes of Silo on Apple TV+, with a second season currently in production and generating significant anticipation.
6. Foundation
Apple TV+ has brought Isaac Asimov’s epic science fiction series to life with “Foundation,” an ambitious adaptation of the classic novels. The show chronicles the journey of a group of exiles working to preserve civilization during the fall of a galactic empire.
The series features stunning visuals that transform Asimov’s complex world into a breathtaking spectacle. The production value is exceptional, with detailed sets and impressive special effects that create an immersive viewing experience.
Lee Pace delivers a standout performance as part of a talented cast that brings depth to the characters. The show has taken creative liberties with the source material, which some viewers consider necessary given the challenging nature of adapting Asimov’s concept-heavy novels.
Many fans consider Foundation to be a faithful adaptation despite changes from the books. The series manages to capture the core themes while creating an engaging narrative for television.
Critics have noted that while the show is visually beautiful, some viewers may find the storytelling complex. The multi-generational timeline and intricate political machinations require attention from the audience.
Foundation represents one of Apple TV+’s most significant investments in science fiction programming. The streaming service clearly aimed to create a prestige series that could compete with other major sci-fi franchises.
The show is available with an Apple TV+ subscription, which offers a seven-day free trial before charging $9.99 per month. For fans of thought-provoking science fiction with high production values, Foundation provides an engaging viewing experience.
Future seasons are planned, with the storyline expected to continue the generational war between the Empire and Hari Seldon’s Foundation. This ambitious approach allows the series to evolve while staying connected to its literary origins.
7. Slow Horses
Slow Horses is an Apple TV+ thriller that follows a team of dysfunctional MI5 agents. The show has gained critical acclaim for its exceptional storytelling and outstanding performances.
The series stars Gary Oldman as Jackson Lamb, the obnoxious boss of a group of disgraced spies. His character leads the team through complex intelligence operations, despite their reputation as failures within the agency.
The first season premiered on April 1, 2022, introducing viewers to the world of Slough House, where MI5 agents who’ve made career-ending mistakes are sent. The second season, based on the novel “Dead Lions,” was released on December 2, 2022.
What makes Slow Horses stand out is its fantastic acting, production quality, and consistency throughout its run. The show balances tense spy drama with dark humor in a way few series manage to achieve.
Jack Lowden and Kristin Scott Thomas round out the impressive cast, bringing depth to this world of espionage. The characters navigate the smoke and mirrors of intelligence work while defending England from various threats.
Critics and audiences have embraced the show, leading to multiple seasons. Apple TV+ has continued to invest in the series, recognizing its appeal and quality storytelling.
The show is based on Mick Herron’s Slough House novels, providing rich source material for the series. This adaptation has been praised for capturing the essence of the books while creating compelling television.
Fans of spy thrillers will appreciate the show’s attention to detail and realistic portrayal of intelligence work. It avoids many of the genre’s clichés while delivering satisfying plotlines and character development.
Season 5 of Slow Horses is currently in development, showing the ongoing commitment to this popular series.
8. Dope Thief
Dope Thief is one of Apple TV+’s newest crime drama offerings, premiering in 2025. The series follows two lifelong friends who find themselves in over their heads in the dangerous world of drug theft. The show stars Brian Tyree Henry in what critics are calling a standout performance.
New episodes of the series are released every Friday, with Apple TV+ offering a 7-day free trial before the regular subscription fee of $9.99 per month kicks in. The show has generated significant buzz for the streaming platform.
The official trailer showcases the show’s gritty, tension-filled storytelling style. Viewers can find it on Apple TV’s YouTube channel, providing a glimpse into the drama’s intense narrative before committing to a subscription.
Critics have responded favorably to the series, with IGN describing it as a captivating crime drama. The review particularly praises Brian Tyree Henry’s performance as exceptional, helping to elevate the material.
Variety’s review notes that Henry stars as a stick-up artist who quickly finds himself out of his depth. The series benefits from having Ridley Scott on board as an executive producer, bringing his cinematic expertise to the small screen.
While Roger Ebert’s website acknowledges the show is never boring, it suggests the series suffers from common streaming issues related to pacing. The review indicates the show’s 150-minute runtime might have been better served in a more condensed format.
For fans of crime dramas seeking a new series with strong performances, Dope Thief represents one of Apple TV+’s most compelling recent additions. The combination of Henry’s acting prowess and Scott’s production expertise makes it worth consideration for subscribers to the platform.
9. Surface
Surface is an Apple TV+ thriller series that premiered in 2022. The show stars Gugu Mbatha-Raw and follows a woman trying to rebuild her life after a suicide attempt that she can’t remember.
The series has been described as an “elevated soap opera” rather than the “elevated thriller” it was marketed as. It features attractive actors and high production values typical of Apple’s streaming content.
Critics have given Surface mixed reviews. The show currently holds a 57% score on Rotten Tomatoes, with reviewers noting its minimal tension and slow-moving mystery format.
The plot revolves around themes of suicide and conspiracy. Viewers should note the show is rated TV-MA, making it appropriate for mature audiences only.
Despite critical reception, Surface has maintained popularity on the platform. It currently ranks fourth on Apple TV’s Most Popular Now chart, alongside hits like Severance, Ted Lasso, and Shrinking.
The visual styling of Surface follows Apple’s signature high-quality production approach. The show features polished cinematography and sleek design elements that complement its psychological thriller elements.
Surface began streaming on July 29, 2022, and was produced as a collaboration between the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. The international production brings diverse talent to both the cast and crew.
For viewers who enjoy slow-burn mysteries with psychological elements, Surface could be worth watching. However, those seeking fast-paced thrills might find the deliberate pacing frustrating.
10. Black Bird
Black Bird is one of Apple TV+’s standout drama series, earning critical acclaim and multiple Emmy nominations. The show stars Taron Egerton alongside Ray Liotta and Greg Kinnear in a gripping true crime narrative that captivates viewers from start to finish.
The limited series is based on actual events and tells the story of Jimmy Keene, a high school football hero sentenced to 10 years in prison. The autobiographical story was adapted for television by Dennis Lehane, who developed it from the 2010 book “In with the Devil.”
What makes Black Bird particularly compelling is the exceptional acting performances. Paul Walter Hauser’s portrayal of Larry Hall has been described as truly unforgettable and terrifying, contributing significantly to the show’s impact.
The series has achieved remarkable success with critics. It holds an impressive 98% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, demonstrating its widespread appeal and quality storytelling.
For those interested in true crime dramas, Black Bird represents some of Apple TV+’s finest content. The miniseries format allows for a complete, well-paced narrative that doesn’t overstay its welcome while fully exploring its complex themes.
Apple TV+ showcases the drama series as a highlight of their original programming lineup. The 2023 Emmy nominations further validate the quality of this production and its impact on television.
Hardware and Software Features
The latest Apple TV 4K runs on the powerful A15 Bionic chip, which delivers up to 50% better CPU performance and 30% improved GPU capabilities compared to previous models. This processing power enables smoother navigation and more responsive gaming experiences.
The device connects to your television through HDMI and offers various connectivity options including:
- Wi-Fi 6 for faster streaming
- Bluetooth 5.0 for accessories
- USB-C connector (on the remote) for charging
Battery life is impressive, with the Siri Remote providing months of use on a single charge. Internal storage options typically range from 64GB to 128GB, accommodating numerous apps and games.
Apple TV 4K supports Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and Dolby Atmos, creating cinema-quality viewing experiences with compatible TVs and sound systems.
User Interface and Experience
tvOS, Apple’s dedicated operating system for Apple TV, features a clean, grid-based layout that makes finding content intuitive. The home screen displays installed apps and offers customization options to prioritize favorites.
The Siri Remote enhances the user experience with voice commands, allowing viewers to search for shows, control playback, and even ask questions about what they’re watching. Touch controls provide precise navigation through menus and content.
Apple TV serves as a streaming hub that unites Apple services with other apps like Netflix, Disney+, and HBO Max in one place. The interface intelligently aggregates content across platforms through the Apple TV app.
Multi-user support enables personalized recommendations for each household member, while AirPlay functionality lets users stream content directly from their Apple devices to the TV screen.
Benefits of Using Apple TV for Streaming
Apple TV offers several advantages that make it stand out in the crowded streaming device market. The device combines powerful hardware with thoughtful software design to deliver a premium streaming experience.
Integration with Other Apple Services
Apple TV works seamlessly with other Apple products and services, creating a unified ecosystem for users. Anyone with an iPhone, iPad, or Mac can easily mirror their screen to an Apple TV using AirPlay, making photo sharing or presentation setup quick and simple.
The device also integrates perfectly with Apple Music, Apple Fitness+, and iCloud Photos. Users can access their entire music library, workout videos, and photo collections directly through their TV.
Apple TV+ subscription content appears prominently in the interface, making original shows and movies easy to discover. iTunes purchases and rentals sync automatically across all Apple devices, allowing viewers to start watching on one device and continue on another.
Family Sharing enables up to six family members to share subscriptions and purchases without sharing accounts.
Compatibility with Various Apps
Apple TV supports a wide range of streaming services beyond Apple’s own offerings. The App Store provides access to popular platforms like Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, and Hulu. The device aggregates multiple streaming services into one place, making content discovery simpler.
One notable advantage is the blazing-fast operation speed of Apple TV 4K. The A15 Bionic chip powers quick app launches and smooth navigation, eliminating the lag often experienced with other streaming devices.
The interface maintains Apple’s signature clean design philosophy. Apps are organized logically, and the universal search function works across platforms to find content regardless of which service hosts it.
While Amazon Video wasn’t natively supported in earlier versions, current models offer comprehensive app compatibility, addressing previous limitations mentioned in user discussions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Apple TV+ has become a major player in the streaming landscape with its exclusive content and critically-acclaimed originals. Users often have questions about what’s worth watching and how the platform compares to competitors.
Which shows currently top the charts on Apple TV+?
“Ted Lasso” remains one of the most popular shows on Apple TV+, consistently drawing viewers with its heartwarming storytelling and character development. The comedy series about an American football coach managing a British soccer team has built a devoted fanbase.
“Severance,” the mind-bending thriller directed by Ben Stiller, has also claimed a top spot on the platform. Its unique premise about employees who surgically separate their work and personal memories has captivated audiences.
“Silo” has quickly risen to become one of Apple TV+’s most-watched series, with its dystopian story set in a future where people live in an underground silo.
What are the critically acclaimed original series on Apple TV+?
“For All Mankind” has received widespread critical acclaim for its alternative history take on the space race. The show imagines a world where the Soviet Union beat America to the moon, triggering an intensified space competition.
“Mythic Quest” stands out as a well-reviewed workplace comedy set in a video game development studio. Critics praise its smart writing and ensemble cast.
“Ted Lasso” has earned numerous Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Comedy Series, making it one of the most decorated streaming shows in recent years.
Which movies on Apple TV+ have received the best reviews?
“CODA,” the heartfelt drama about a hearing teenager in a deaf family, won the Academy Award for Best Picture, bringing significant prestige to Apple TV+.
“The Tragedy of Macbeth,” directed by Joel Coen and starring Denzel Washington, received critical praise for its striking black-and-white cinematography and powerful performances.
“Wolfwalkers,” the animated feature from Cartoon Saloon, has been hailed as a visually stunning masterpiece with its unique animation style and compelling storytelling.
How is the quality of Apple TV+ content rated on platforms like IMDb and Metacritic?
Apple TV+ shows generally maintain strong ratings across review aggregators. “Ted Lasso” holds impressive scores on both IMDb and Metacritic, with ratings consistently above 8.5/10.
“Severance” has earned particularly high marks for its originality and execution, with many critics placing it among the best television of recent years.
The platform’s overall content quality tends to receive higher average ratings than many competing services, though its library remains smaller than established rivals.
What exclusive content does Apple TV+ offer compared to other streaming platforms such as Paramount+?
Apple TV+ focuses exclusively on original content, unlike Paramount+ which includes a back catalog of CBS, Paramount, and Viacom properties. This means every show and movie on Apple TV+ was created specifically for the platform.
The service has secured partnerships with major creators like Oprah Winfrey, Steven Spielberg, and Martin Scorsese to develop exclusive projects unavailable anywhere else.
Apple’s focus on quality over quantity distinguishes it from services like Paramount+, which offers a larger library but with more variable quality standards.
What recommendations are there for top-rated Apple TV+ series according to viewer discussions on Reddit?
Reddit users frequently recommend “Severance” as a must-watch series, with many discussion threads praising its unique concept and execution.
“For All Mankind” receives strong support from Reddit communities for its detailed world-building and character development across multiple seasons.
“Mythic Quest” is often suggested for viewers who enjoy workplace comedies, with many Reddit users highlighting its humor and surprisingly emotional moments throughout the series.
