How to Turn your TV into a Smart TV with Apple TV: A Complete Guide
Apple TV is a device that has revolutionized the way we access media. This set-top box connects to your TV and offers a world of online content and the ability to share screens from iPhone and iPad. Want to turn your TV into a smart TV with the Apple logo? Then you're in the right place! In this article, I'll guide you through the best apps for Apple TV and how to install them.
How to Download and Install Apps on Apple TV
Before we explore the world of Apple TV apps, let's look at how to download and install them. The process is very similar to the one on iPhone and iPad. Just go to the Apple TV App Store, search for the app you're interested in, and click the download button. Whether you have a fourth-generation Apple TV or an Apple TV 4K, the process is the same.
The App Store is organized into several sections:
- In evidence: here you will find the most popular apps and games of the moment.
- Leaderboards: list of most downloaded apps.
- Categories: To browse apps by genre.
- Purchase: to see all your already downloaded apps.
- Near: Search for specific apps and games.
Best Free and Paid Apps for Apple TV
Now that you know how to download apps on Apple TV, let's move on to the apps I think are worth your attention. Unlike iPhone and iPad apps, for Apple TV you'll have to manually search for the app in the store. But don't worry, it's a very simple process.
App for Music, Photos and Videos
When it comes to multimedia, Apple TV offers a wide range of options. Whether you're a music lover, a photography enthusiast, or a movie buff, there's an app for you.
App for Education and News
If you are someone who loves to stay updated or want to broaden your educational horizons, there are numerous apps that offer up-to-date news and online courses.
Sports App
For sports fans, Apple TV is a fantastic platform. You can watch live games, follow your favorite athletes, and even improve your skills with specialized lessons.
Games App
Yes, you can also play on Apple TV! The App Store offers a variety of games, from classics to newer ones, suitable for all ages and skill levels.
Limitations for Older Generations of Apple TV
One final note for those who have older generations of Apple TV: Unfortunately, these versions do not support the App Store. So, you will be limited to the pre-installed apps on your device. For more details, you can consult Apple's official documentation.
Here's everything you need to know to get the most out of your Apple TV. I hope you find this article helpful and that it helps you discover new apps that will make your Apple TV experience even more rewarding.
Streaming Video and Multimedia Content for Apple TV
If you're looking for the best apps for your Apple TV, you've come to the right place. Here are some of the most popular apps for watching videos, streaming movies, and playing media.
Netflix – The most popular app for streaming movies and TV shows. It offers an intuitive and minimalist user interface. A paid subscription is required to access content.
RaiPlay – Allows you to watch Rai programs already broadcast and live content. It also includes a handy TV guide. It's free.
YouTube – The world's most popular video sharing hub. You can search for videos, follow channels, and much more. It's also free.
Dailymotion – A great alternative to YouTube for sharing and watching videos. Free.
Vevo – The platform chosen by artists from all over the world to share their music videos. This one is also free.
Plex – A high-quality media center with a well-designed interface. It allows you to access movies, TV shows, and other multimedia content. It's free.
VLC for Mobile – An essential media player for playing various video file types. Free.
Infuse 5 – An advanced video player that supports various formats, streaming, and video downloading. Free, but offers additional features through in-app purchases.
Educational and Information Apps for Apple TV
Are you interested in learning or want to stay up to date with the latest news? Here are some apps that might interest you.
NASA – Offers high-quality images and videos directly from the space station. It's free.
AccuWeather – Get accurate weather forecasts right on your TV. Free.
Night Sky – An app that lets you explore the universe directly from your Apple TV. It's free, but offers additional features through in-app purchases.
TED – Access thousands of TED Talks on topics ranging from science to psychology. It's free.
Fit Brains Trainer – An app for exercising your brain through various mind games. It's free, but offers additional features through in-app purchases.
Twitter – Follow the latest news in real time directly from your TV. It's free.
Coursera – Offers access to high-quality online courses from universities around the world. It's free, but offers additional features through in-app purchases.
App for Sports Lovers on Apple TV
For sports fans, here are some apps that will allow you to follow your favorite teams and athletes live.
Serie A TIM – For Italian football fans, this is the official Serie A app. It's free, but requires a subscription to access live content.
Red Bull TV – Access extreme sports videos and other adventurous content. It's free.
NBA app – A must-have for basketball fans. It's free, but offers additional features through in-app purchases.
Eurosport Player – Offers live streaming of Eurosport channels. It's free, but offers additional features through in-app purchases.
Football Mania – Stay up to date on football scores from all leagues. It's free.
Tennis TV – For tennis fans, it offers live streaming of the most important matches. It's free, but offers additional features through in-app purchases.
RugbyPass – An app dedicated to rugby fans. It's free, but offers additional features through in-app purchases.
Turn your Apple TV into a Games Console
Have you ever thought about turning your Apple TV into a full-fledged gaming console? It's easier than you might think. Just choose the right games and you're done, literally. Here's a selection of the most fun and addictive games available for Apple TV.
Games Not to Be Missed on Apple TV
Strike! Ten Pin Bowling
If you're a bowling fan, this game is perfect for you. It's free to play, but offers in-app purchases to enhance your experience.
Leo's Fortune
This is a platform game with spectacular graphics. Help Leo recover his stolen treasure. The game costs €5.49.
Mr. Crab 2
The friendly crab Mr. Crab is back with new adventures. Help him and his friends save the lost crabs in this fun and engaging game. Free with in-app purchases.
Badlands 2
This is a mix between an endless runner and a puzzle game. You guide a flock of birds and solve puzzles to advance. It costs €4.49.
Minion Rush
An endless run game starring the Minions. Help the cute yellow characters overcome obstacles and collect prizes. Free with in-app purchases.
Hit Tennis 3
For tennis lovers, this game offers the option to play tennis using the Apple TV Remote as a racket. Free with in-app purchases.
Crossy Rd
A retro-styled game that requires timing and coordination. Guide animals and characters through obstacle-filled courses. Free with in-app purchases.
Lumino City
A puzzle game with stunning graphics and hand-crafted scenarios. It costs 5.49 euros.
Useful Apps for Apple TV
In addition to games, there are several other apps that may interest you. Here are some you might want to try.
Speedtest.net
Test your internet speed directly from your Apple TV. Free with in-app purchases.
Facebook
Great for watching videos of friends or pages you follow. Free.
Tinder
Explore dating opportunities right from your TV screen. Free with in-app purchases.
TripAdvisor
Read hotel and restaurant reviews. Free.
Zova Workout & Fitness Trainer
Keep fit with various types of exercises, all explained in detail. Free with in-app purchases.
Relax Melodies
Relaxing sounds for falling asleep or simply for a moment of relaxation. Free.
Kitchen Stories
Recipe app with detailed instructions for preparing delicious dishes. Free with in-app purchases.
IKEA Catalogue
Browse the IKEA catalog from the comfort of your sofa. Free.
This concludes our list of the best apps and games for Apple TV. With these options, your Apple TV will become much more than just a video streaming device.