· Johnny Pump · Lifestyle · 3 min read
How to Save Money on an Apple TV+ Subscription in the UK
Apple TV+ offers a growing selection of exclusive shows, movies, and documentaries, but like all streaming services, the cost can add up. If you’re looking for ways to save money on your Apple TV+ subscription in the UK, here are some smart strategies to help reduce costs.
1. Take Advantage of Free Trials and Extended Offers
Apple frequently offers free trials, making it possible to enjoy Apple TV+ without paying full price.
Where to Find Free Trials:
- Apple’s Official Website – New users typically get 7 days free.
- New Apple Device Purchases – Buying an iPhone, iPad, Mac, or Apple TV usually comes with 3 months of Apple TV+ for free.
- Apple One Trial – A 1-month free trial of Apple One includes Apple TV+ alongside Apple Music, iCloud+, and other services.
Money-Saving Tip:
- If you’ve already used a free trial, try signing up with a different Apple ID.
- Time your free trial with the release of a show you want to watch, then cancel before being charged.
2. Opt for an Apple One Bundle
If you use other Apple services, an Apple One subscription can save you money compared to subscribing individually.
Apple One Plans (UK Pricing):
- Individual (£18.95/month) – Apple TV+, Apple Music, Apple Arcade, and 50GB iCloud+.
- Family (£24.95/month) – Same benefits as Individual but shareable with up to 5 family members and 200GB iCloud+.
- Premier (£36.95/month) – Adds Apple News+, Apple Fitness+, and 2TB iCloud+.
Savings Breakdown:
- If you already subscribe to multiple Apple services, bundling them in Apple One saves you money.
- Sharing the Family Plan reduces costs – at £24.95 split between 6 people, it’s just £4.16 per person.
3. Share a Family Plan
Apple allows you to share an Apple TV+ subscription with up to 5 other people using Family Sharing.
Cost-Saving Tip:
- One person subscribes for £8.99/month and splits the cost among 6 people = £1.50 per person.
- Family Sharing also works with Apple One, making the Family Plan even better value.
4. Check Mobile and Broadband Deals
Some UK mobile networks and broadband providers offer Apple TV+ as a free bonus.
Where to Find Apple TV+ Deals:
- EE & O2 – Often include Apple TV+ in phone contracts.
- Sky, Virgin Media, and BT – Occasionally bundle Apple TV+ with broadband or TV packages.
- Barclays Premier Customers – Get free Apple TV+ for 12 months.
5. Use Gift Cards and Cashback Offers
Buying discounted Apple gift cards or earning cashback can reduce your Apple TV+ costs.
Where to Find Discounts:
- Supermarkets (Tesco, Asda, Sainsbury’s, Morrisons) – Sometimes offer bonus Nectar or Clubcard points on Apple gift cards.
- Cashback Websites (TopCashback, Quidco) – Check for Apple-related cashback offers.
- Apple Referrals & Promotions – Occasionally, Apple runs promotions where you can get extended free trials through referrals.
6. Pay Annually Instead of Monthly
If you plan to keep Apple TV+ long-term, switching to an annual plan can save you money.
Cost Comparison:
- Monthly Plan: £8.99 x 12 months = £107.88.
- Annual Plan: £89/year.
- Total Savings: £18.88 per year.
7. Cancel When You’re Not Using It
Apple TV+ releases many of its shows in bulk, so you don’t need to stay subscribed every month.
Smart Strategy:
- Subscribe for a month, binge-watch your favourite content, then cancel.
- Use reminders to avoid being charged after a free trial.
- Wait for a new free trial offer or promotion before resubscribing.
8. Consider Alternative Free Streaming Services
If you’re looking to cut costs, there are free alternatives with great content.
Free Streaming Options:
- BBC iPlayer, ITVX, and Channel 4 (All 4) – Free UK-based streaming services.
- Pluto TV – Offers a selection of live and on-demand TV for free.
- YouTube – Many free movies and shows are available.
Conclusion
Saving money on an Apple TV+ subscription in the UK is easy with the right approach. Whether it’s using free trials, sharing with family, getting bundled offers, or paying annually, there are plenty of ways to enjoy Apple TV+ without overpaying.