Apple TV+ has become a popular streaming choice, offering a range of original series, movies, and documentaries admired by critics and viewers alike. While Apple typically provides a free trial when users purchase new Apple devices, what if someone wants to enjoy Apple TV+ for free without making a pricey investment in new hardware? Fortunately, there are several legitimate ways to score up to 3 months of Apple TV+ at no cost, even without buying a new iPhone, MacBook, or iPad.
This guide will walk readers through various promotional offers, partnerships, and strategic tips to enjoy Apple TV+ for free beyond the standard trial. Whether they’re a new user or returning subscriber, these strategies could unlock additional months of binge-worthy programming—completely free of charge.
1. Look for Limited-Time Apple TV+ Promotions
Apple occasionally runs exclusive promotions that allow existing or new users to claim extended free trials of Apple TV+, even without purchasing devices. These deals frequently appear around holidays, special product launches, or when Apple is heavily marketing a major series or movie launch.
For example, in the past, Apple has offered:
- 3-month free trials to new subscribers via invitations on the Apple TV app
- Extended trials through email offers to former subscribers as a “come back” incentive
- Bundled trials when subscribing to multiple Apple services like Apple Arcade or Apple News+
To see if a promotion is available, users should open the Apple TV app or navigate to TV.apple.com while signed in. The offer usually appears on the homepage or under the “Watch Now” tab if eligible.
2. Check with Mobile Carriers and Internet Providers
Many wireless carriers and broadband internet companies partner with Apple to give customers extra value through service bundles. It’s not uncommon for telecom providers to offer Apple TV+ as a perk of subscribing to a premium plan.
Some notable recent partnerships have included:
- T-Mobile (U.S.): Has offered 6 to 12 months of Apple TV+ included on Magenta Max plans
- Verizon (U.S.): Bundles with select home internet plans
- EE (U.K.): Offers Apple TV+ access on qualifying data plans
Even if a user is on a basic plan, they’re encouraged to contact their provider’s customer service or check their online account for eligibility. Often these free trials can be activated through a simple redemption link.
3. Use Target or Best Buy Offers
Retailers like Target and Best Buy frequently offer digital subscriptions as part of their loyalty programs or promotional bundles. Even better, these offers are often accessible to anyone, not just those buying Apple products.
Recently, Target’s Circle program and Best Buy’s online promotions have included:
- Free 3-month Apple TV+ trials for all Circle members (new or existing)
- Stackable promotions when purchasing gift cards or digital apps that include Apple trials
Both of these offers involve receiving a redemption code via email, valid even for customers who have used a free trial in the past—though not if they currently have an active subscription.
4. Create New Apple IDs Strategically
Although this method requires a bit more effort, some users create new Apple IDs to occasionally access new customer free trials for Apple TV+. Apple often grants a 7-day or 1-month trial to brand-new accounts—even if the user has previously subscribed under a different email.
Steps to follow:
- Set up a new iCloud or Apple ID account using a secondary email address.
- Log in on Apple TV or the Apple TV app using the new credentials.
- Claim the free trial when prompted at sign-up (trial may vary by region).
While this isn’t exactly within Apple’s intended use policies, many consumers have reported that this method works when spaced out over time. It may not earn a full 3-month trial, but it can add a few no-cost viewing weeks to anyone’s streaming rotation.
5. Subscribe to Apple One for a Free Trial
Apple One bundles together various Apple services—like iCloud, Apple Music, Apple Arcade, and Apple TV+—into one monthly payment. New subscribers to Apple One receive a free trial, even if they’ve used individual services before.
The Individual and Family plans both include Apple TV+, and users often receive 1-month free with signup. For families or anyone already planning to use multiple Apple services, this is a cost-effective strategy to get Apple TV+ for free while also enjoying bonus perks.
6. Watch for Credit Card and Bank Promotions
From time to time, credit card issuers and online banks offer perks like digital streaming services to incentivize new accounts or card usage. Apple TV+ has featured in promotions from cards like American Express and banks offering tech-savvy digital perks.
These campaigns are often seasonal and may appear in reward dashboards or app notifications. Checking under entertainment or “lifestyle perks” in your card member portal might reveal a hidden 3-month offer, complete with a one-click signup flow.
7. Check Apple Awards, Email Alerts and Subscriptions
Apple is known for rewarding loyal users through subtle perks and random gift emails. Users who have recently cancelled their subscription or shared feedback are sometimes sent exclusive codes for free trials as a form of retention marketing.
To increase chances of receiving such offers:
- Enable emails from Apple on your Apple ID preferences.
- Follow Apple TV+ on social media for surprise drop campaigns.
- Join Apple’s Beta Software Program (occasionally offers free trial access to entice test users).
Final Thoughts
Whether someone is diving into hit series like Ted Lasso or cinematic originals like CODA, Apple TV+ is a platform worth exploring. While buying a new Apple device remains the most common way to score a 3-month free trial, savvy streamers can tap into numerous alternative promotions to enjoy high-quality content without a hefty cost.
It’s worth checking for new offers every few months, as Apple’s promotions are frequently updated. With a combination of retailer offers, strategic signups, and provider partnerships, it’s more than possible to keep enjoying Apple TV+—completely free—for months at a time.
FAQ: How to Get 3 Months of Apple TV+ for Free
- Q: Can I stack two Apple TV+ promotions?
A: Not typically. Apple only allows one trial per Apple ID at a time. However, you may stack an expired trial with another code or offer after a period of inactivity. - Q: Do I need an Apple device to use the free trial?
A: No, Apple TV+ is accessible via a web browser at TV.apple.com, and apps are available on Smart TVs, Roku, Fire Stick, and gaming consoles. - Q: I canceled Apple TV+ before—can I still get a free trial?
A: Sometimes. Users may receive a returning user offer or promotional redemption code. Best to check Apple TV app or Apple ID emails. - Q: Are third-party Apple TV+ codes safe?
A: Only redeem codes from verified partners like Best Buy, Target, or official promo emails. Avoid unknown resellers or suspicious websites offering free codes. - Q: Will I be charged automatically after the free trial ends?
A: Yes, unless you cancel beforehand. Apple will begin billing the method on file once the trial period ends.
