Roku TVs and players can finally access Apple TV content

(Image credit: Future)

Despite being one of the most open platforms for streaming services, Roku has always struggled to crack Apple’s walled garden – until earlier this year, when the two brands announced that they would bring the Apple TV app to Roku for the first time. 

Months later, the fruits of that partnership have ripened. Roku TV and Roku player owners can now download the Apple TV app on most Roku devices, including the new Roku Express and Roku Ultra, but excluding the oldest models in the lineup.

To download the app, go into the 'Featured' section of the channel store or search for 'Apple TV' through the Roku voice remote or Roku app on your mobile device. Once it’s downloaded, you can log into the app by either entering your information on your Roku or by using a QR code to log in through your mobile device, and then access any shows or movies you have in your collection.

While the app is currently limited to content you either already own or want to rent from the iTunes Store, the Apple TV app on Roku will soon support Apple's new streaming service, Apple TV Plus, after its arrival on November 1.

That said, if you want to start streaming your iTunes shows and movies, the Apple TV app is now available to Roku users for free in the US and UK, as well as Argentina, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, France, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Peru and the Republic of Ireland. 

Nick Pino

Nick Pino is Managing Editor, TV and AV for TechRadar's sister site, Tom's Guide. Previously, he was the Senior Editor of Home Entertainment at TechRadar, covering TVs, headphones, speakers, video games, VR and streaming devices. He's also written for GamesRadar+, Official Xbox Magazine, PC Gamer and other outlets over the last decade, and he has a degree in computer science he's not using if anyone wants it.