Skip to main content

Cheaper Netflix with ads plan is not supported on Apple TV [update: coming soon]

Update [March 2023]: The Netflix ‘Basic with Ads’ tier is now supported on Apple TV.

Update [November 2022]: In a statement, Netflix told 9to5Mac that Basic with ads plan support is coming soon to Apple TV devices. Original story below.


Here’s a PSA for anyone out there looking to save some money on their Netflix. Beginning today, Netflix Basic with ads plan is rolling out around the world, priced at $6.99 per month.

However there’s a big gotcha for people in the Apple ecosystem: the ad-supported plan is not supported on the Netflix app on the Apple TV box.

It’s unclear if this will remain the case in the long term, but at least as of today’s launch, a support document confirms that the Apple TV is not a supported device for Netflix Basic with ads.

The Netflix app on tvOS has lagged behind rivals in features in several aspects of late (such as not supporting any of the interactive video content) but this is surely the most impactful omission.

Netflix simply says that Apple TV customers on the ads plan will have to use another device to stream, or upgrade their package to a more expensive ad-free paid tier.

Netflix with ads can be streamed on other Apple devices like iPhone and iPad, and Mac (through Safari).

Netflix Basic with ads is priced at $6.99 per month, and launches today in countries including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Brazil, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and Korea. The plan grants access to stream the Netflix library, on one device at a time, in 720p quality. Users can expect to see about 4 minutes of ads per hour of content streamed.

FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.

You’re reading 9to5Mac — experts who break news about Apple and its surrounding ecosystem, day after day. Be sure to check out our homepage for all the latest news, and follow 9to5Mac on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to stay in the loop. Don’t know where to start? Check out our exclusive stories, reviews, how-tos, and subscribe to our YouTube channel

Comments

Author

Avatar for Benjamin Mayo Benjamin Mayo

Benjamin develops iOS apps professionally and covers Apple news and rumors for 9to5Mac. Listen to Benjamin, every week, on the Happy Hour podcast. Check out his personal blog. Message Benjamin over email or Twitter.


Manage push notifications

notification icon
We would like to show you notifications for the latest news and updates.
notification icon
You are subscribed to notifications
notification icon
We would like to show you notifications for the latest news and updates.
notification icon
You are subscribed to notifications