Apple TV+ Raises Prices, Expands Sports Lineup in the US
Apple TV+ has become a major player in the United States streaming market, and recent news highlights both its growing sports offerings and a price adjustment. The service, which has been steadily adding live sports content, now includes Major League Soccer (MLS) and Major League Baseball (MLB) games, along with other events like the Leagues Cup and Formula 1 races. This expansion reflects Apple’s strategy to attract a broader audience by diversifying its content beyond original series and films.
In a significant move, Apple has increased the monthly price of Apple TV+ from $6.99 to $9.99 for new subscribers, marking the first price hike since the service launched in 2019. Existing customers will see the increase after their current billing period, with annual subscribers paying $99 per year. Notably, Apple One Individual plan members will also be affected, but Apple One Family and Premier plans are exempt from this change. Despite the increase, Apple TV+ remains competitively priced compared to other ad-free streaming services like Netflix and Disney+, which charge $15.49 and $13.99 per month, respectively.
The price adjustment comes as Apple continues to invest heavily in sports rights. The company’s partnership with Major League Soccer, which began in 2023, was initially sold as a separate Season Pass but has now been integrated into the main Apple TV+ subscription. This move provides added value to subscribers, who can now watch MLS matches without an additional fee. Similarly, Apple’s “Friday Night Baseball” with MLB has been a popular draw, with the September schedule recently announced. These sports offerings are part of Apple’s broader effort to differentiate its streaming service in a crowded market.
Apple’s commitment to quality content is also evident in its record-breaking 89 Emmy Award nominations, a testament to the success of its original programming. As the service continues to evolve, subscribers can expect more live sports and high-quality entertainment. While the price increase may give some pause, the expanded content library and competitive pricing suggest that Apple TV+ remains a strong value for consumers seeking diverse, ad-free entertainment options.
Shimanta Das 
