Streaming services have become a central part of the entertainment industry, with each platform vying for attention through exclusive content, immersive shows, and features that make them stand out. Apple TV Plus, Apple’s own streaming service, is one of the prominent players in the market, offering original content in the form of TV shows, movies, and documentaries. However, in a move that will excite both potential new subscribers and those who are yet to give the platform a try, Apple TV Plus has announced a special event: a free weekend of streaming!
Event Details: Apple TV Plus Free Weekend (January 4-5, 2025)
From January 4 to January 5, 2025, Apple TV Plus will be offering a 48-hour streaming experience with no subscription required. For the first time, users will be able to access Apple TV Plus’ entire library of content — including its critically acclaimed original series, movies, and documentaries — without needing to sign up or make any financial commitment. Whether you are a current subscriber or someone who has never explored Apple’s platform, this is your chance to enjoy everything it has to offer for free.
This free weekend comes right before one of Apple TV Plus’ most highly anticipated releases: the second season of Severance, which will premiere on January 17, 2025. The timing of this event is significant, as it not only offers a chance for new users to explore the service but also builds excitement and anticipation for the return of a popular series.
Why Is Apple TV Plus Offering a Free Weekend?
While many streaming platforms offer free trials or limited-time discounts, Apple TV Plus has never offered a completely free weekend of streaming before. So why is Apple making this move now? The timing of this event appears to be strategic for several reasons:
- Building Hype for Severance Season 2: The primary reason behind this free weekend could be to build excitement for the return of Severance, one of the most talked-about series on the platform. As the second season premieres on January 17, 2025, Apple may be hoping to entice viewers who have yet to experience the show by offering them a chance to catch up on season 1, thereby boosting its viewership and interest in the upcoming episodes.
- Competing with Other Streaming Platforms: The streaming market is more competitive than ever, with players like Netflix, Disney Plus, Amazon Prime Video, and others vying for attention. In such a crowded market, unique promotions like this one can help Apple TV Plus stand out and draw in subscribers who might otherwise be hesitant to commit to a subscription.
- Encouraging New Subscribers: Offering a free weekend is a tactic often used to introduce people to a new service, and this is likely Apple’s goal with this promotion as well. By offering users free access to its extensive library, Apple hopes to convert first-time viewers into paying subscribers once the free weekend ends.
- Showcasing Apple’s Original Content: Apple TV Plus is known for its high-quality original content, including award-winning shows like Ted Lasso, The Morning Show, Shrinking, and Slow Horses. This free weekend provides a perfect opportunity to showcase the range and depth of content on the platform, enticing viewers who might have otherwise missed out on these exceptional series and films.
What Can You Watch During the Free Weekend?
During the free weekend, Apple TV Plus users will have access to the full library of original content, including everything from drama and comedy series to documentary features and family-friendly films. Some of the most popular shows you can enjoy include:
- Severance: Severance has garnered significant critical acclaim for its gripping storyline and innovative approach to storytelling. The series, created by Dan Erickson and directed by Ben Stiller, follows a mysterious company that divides employees’ memories into two separate identities: one for work and one for their personal lives. This unique premise has intrigued audiences and critics alike, and with season 2 set to debut in January, this free weekend offers the perfect opportunity to catch up on season 1.
- Ted Lasso: Another standout original, Ted Lasso is a heartwarming comedy about an American football coach who is hired to manage a British soccer team. The show has become a fan favorite, earning multiple awards and widespread praise for its uplifting humor, relatable characters, and optimistic themes. Whether you’re a soccer fan or not, this show has universal appeal.
- Shrinking: Starring Jason Segel and Harrison Ford, Shrinking follows a therapist who is struggling to navigate his personal life while also helping his patients. The series touches on themes of grief, mental health, and the complexity of human relationships, all while maintaining a lighthearted and comedic tone.
- Mythic Quest: A workplace comedy set in the world of video game development, Mythic Quest offers a behind-the-scenes look at a fictional game studio. The show’s humor, combined with its exploration of the gaming industry, has made it a hit among fans of both comedy and gaming culture.
- The Morning Show: The Morning Show is a drama that takes a behind-the-scenes look at the world of broadcast television. With an all-star cast that includes Jennifer Aniston, Reese Witherspoon, and Steve Carell, the show dives into the challenges of producing a morning news program while tackling issues of gender, power, and media ethics.
- For All Mankind: This alternative history drama imagines what would have happened if the global space race had never ended. Set in a world where the Soviet Union was the first to land on the moon, For All Mankind explores the implications of this shift in power and the continued exploration of space. With a dedicated fanbase, this show has been praised for its attention to detail and its thought-provoking exploration of history.
- Slow Horses: Starring Gary Oldman, Slow Horses follows a group of MI5 agents who have been relegated to less glamorous work after failing their previous assignments. The series has been praised for its sharp wit, intriguing plot, and strong performances from the cast.
In addition to these fan favorites, there are numerous other movies, documentaries, and specials available on Apple TV Plus. Some of the standout films include CODA (which won an Academy Award for Best Picture), Greyhound (starring Tom Hanks), and Wolfwalkers (an animated film that was nominated for an Oscar). The platform also offers a variety of documentaries covering topics ranging from the environment to social justice.
How to Access Apple TV Plus During the Free Weekend
Apple TV Plus is accessible on a wide range of devices, so whether you have an iPhone, iPad, Mac, or even a smart TV, you’ll be able to take advantage of the free weekend. To access the content, you simply need to download the Apple TV app, which is available on:
- iPhone and iPad: The Apple TV app comes pre-installed on iPhones and iPads, making it easy to stream content right from your device.
- Mac: If you use a Mac, you can access Apple TV Plus through the Apple TV app or through the web browser at tv.apple.com.
- Apple TV 4K: If you have an Apple TV 4K, simply open the Apple TV app to start streaming.
- Smart TVs and Streaming Devices: The Apple TV app is available on many smart TVs from brands like Samsung, LG, and Vizio, as well as on streaming devices like Roku, Amazon Fire TV, and Google TV.
- Web: You can also access Apple TV Plus directly from your web browser by visiting tv.apple.com.
All content will be available for free during the designated weekend, and no subscription or sign-up will be required.
Apple TV Plus Global Availability
The free streaming weekend will be available globally, meaning that users in the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and other countries where Apple TV Plus is available can enjoy the event. This global promotion ensures that fans from around the world can take advantage of this rare opportunity.
Conclusion
Apple TV Plus’ free weekend from January 4-5, 2025, offers a rare and exciting chance for anyone to explore the platform’s expansive library of original content without committing to a subscription. Whether you’re a fan of drama, comedy, or documentaries, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. With exciting shows like Severance, Ted Lasso, Shrinking, and Mythic Quest, this is an ideal time to dive into Apple TV Plus and discover new favorites. So mark your calendars, and make sure to take full advantage of this special event before the end of the free weekend!