How to Get Netflix on Apple TV [2 Available Methods]

By Dave Henry Updated on December 18, 2025

netflix on apple tv

Netflix and Apple TV are a perfect match, allowing you to stream your favorite movies and shows right from your TV screen. However, there is a bit of a catch - Netflix is discontinuing support for several older Apple TV models, like the second and third generations. Apple itself considers these models outdated, and as of July 31, 2024, users with these older devices will no longer be able to access the Netflix app directly.

So, is Netflix no longer available on Apple TV? It depends on your devices. For Apple TV HD (4th generation and later), you can install the Netflix app from the App Store. If you have a second- or third-generation Apple TV, there are still alternative methods to stream Netflix from other devices to your Apple TV, so you can continue watching your favorite content without interruption. Keep reading to find out how!

Note

Netflix has canceled its casting function, so casting Netflix to Apple TV is impossible.

Method 1. How to Install and Watch Netflix on Apple TV HD & 4K (4th Gen and Later)

If your device belongs to Apple TV on the table below, you can watch Netflix on Apple TV surprisingly easily, even if it's your first time setting it up. If you don't know your model, you can identify your Apple TV model first. You may also want to take a look at the following chart to learn which Apple TV models are compatible with various Netflix streaming features, including support for 4K (Ultra HD) and HDR.

Model Works with Ad-Supported Plans Subtitle & Audio Support Ultra HD Support HDR Support
Apple TV HD (4th generation) No Subtitles, alternate audio, 5.1 surround sound No No
Apple TV 4K (1st generation) No Subtitles, alternate audio, 5.1 surround sound, Dolby Atmos Yes Yes (Dolby Vision and HDR10)
Apple TV 4K (2nd generation) No Subtitles, alternate audio, 5.1 surround sound, Dolby Atmos Yes Yes (Dolby Vision and HDR10)
Apple TV 4K (3rd generation) No Subtitles, alternate audio, 5.1 surround sound, Dolby Atmos Yes Yes (Dolby Vision and HDR10)

Requirements

If you want to get a 4K video quality, there are some requirements.

  • A TV compatible with 4K (shown in the above table) streaming from Netflix, connected to your Apple TV via an HDMI port that supports HDCP 2.2 or later (usually the HDMI 1 port).
  • A Netflix plan (Premium plan) that supports streaming in 4K (Ultra HD).
  • A steady internet connection speed of 15 megabits per second or higher.
  • Streaming quality set to High.

How to Stream Netflix on Apple TV

Just follow these simple steps, and you'll be streaming your favorite shows and movies in no time.

Tip

If you encounter any issues, ensure your Apple TV is updated to the latest software version and check your internet connection or subscriptions.

Key Features of Netflix on Apple TV:

  • Resolution: Apple TV HD supports 1080p HD. Apple TV 4K models support 4K (Ultra HD).
  • Dolby Atmos: Available on Apple TV 4K models with tvOS 12 or later.
  • HDR: Apple TV 4K models support Dolby Vision and HDR10.
  • 4K Streaming: Requires a 4K TV, HDMI port (HDCP 2.2), Netflix plan, and high-speed internet.
  • HDR Streaming: Requires a compatible TV, Apple TV, Netflix plan, and high-speed internet.

Step 1 Make sure your Apple TV is connected to your TV and powered on.

Step 2 From the Apple TV home screen, select the App Store.

Step 3 Use the search bar to find the Netflix app by typing "Netflix."

Step 4 Select the Netflix app and click "Get" to start the installation.

Step 5 Once installed, the Netflix app will appear on your home screen. Select it to open.

Step 6 Choose "Sign In" and enter your Netflix email and password.

Step 7 If you're not a member, visit Netflix.com to set up your subscription.

Step 8 To switch accounts, press the Menu button on your remote while in the Netflix app.

Step 9 Browse through Netflix's content library, select what you want to watch, and click "Play" to start streaming.

Why Does the Netflix App Gray Out on My Apple TV?

This problem typically points to a sign-in issue with your iTunes account. Try the following steps:

Step 1 Ensure your Apple TV is signed in to iTunes

Step 2 Tap Settings from the Home screen.

Step 3 Choose Accounts.

Step 4 Click iTunes & App Store and sign in with your Apple ID.

If you do not see an option to Sign In but instead see Sign Out, you can update your software by route Settings > System > Software Updates to the latest version or restart your Apple TV.

Method 2. How to Watch Netflix on Any Apple TV Model (3rd Gen and Older)

Netflix is no longer available on older Apple TVs, such as those running on the second and third generations. If you own an older Apple TV model that's been discontinued by Netflix, there's still a great way to enjoy Netflix on your TV without needing the app or a stable internet connection. This is especially useful if you face unreliable internet or slow speeds. The solution? ViWizard Netflix Video Downloader. This method is perfect for getting around the lack of direct app support on older models.

Why ViWizard Netflix Video Downloader?

ViWizard Netflix Video Downloader is a powerful tool for Netflix subscribers, allowing you to save the Netflix Video to MP4 format or MKV. This feature is made for an excellent viewing experience on the big screen, like your Apple TV. Whether you are a second or third-generation Apple TV user or an Apple TV HD or 4K user, the MP4 format is compatible with it. In addition, if you are on an ad-supported plan, ViWizard Netflix Video Downloader can remove the ads and give you a better viewing experience.

netflix video downloader

Key Features of ViWizard Netflix Video Downloader

Free Trial Free Trial

* Security verified. 5, 481,347 people have downloaded it.

  • Download Netflix movies, TV shows and more locally
  • Convert Netflix movies and TV shows to MP4 or MKV
  • Save multilingual language and subtitles in two types
  • Remove ads from Netflix and keep original video quality

Step 1Access Netflix Content through ViWizard

Launch ViWizard Netflix Video Downloader on your laptop. Access the integrated Netflix Web Player and click "Sign in." Enter your Netflix account credentials to unlock full access to Netflix's extensive library of movies, TV shows, documentaries, anime, and originals.

click sign in

Step 2Customize Download Settings

Click the hamburger icon in the top right corner of the ViWizard interface. Select "Preferences" and navigate to the "Download" section. Customize the output video format, codec, quality, audio channel, language, and subtitle preferences to suit your viewing experience on Apple TV. Click "OK" to save your settings.

set preferences

Step 3Select Content for Download

Close the Settings window and return to the ViWizard Web Player. Use the search bar to find specific content by name, keyword, or code, or paste the URL of the Netflix TV show or movie you wish to download. Once you've located the desired video, open it to proceed.

browse netflix library

Step 4Initiate Download Process

Click "Download" to begin downloading your chosen content. ViWizard will automatically download individual episodes or entire seasons for TV shows, as well as full-length movies. Wait for the downloads to complete; they will be saved as MP4 or MKV files in your laptop's default download folder.

add tv shows to download list

Step 5Access Downloaded Content

Navigate to the "Converted" section at the top of the ViWizard interface to find your completed downloads. If needed, click the "Folder" icon next to each title to locate and access the downloaded files individually on your laptop.

view downloaded netflix video

Step 6Watch Netflix on Apple TV

Option 1: Home Sharing

Step 1 On your laptop, open iTunes or the Apple TV app and go to "File" > "Import" and select the downloaded Netflix files you converted from ViWizard.

Step 2 Go to "File" > "Home Sharing" > "Turn On Home Sharing." Sign in with your Apple ID.

Step 3 On your Apple TV, go to "Settings" > "Accounts" > "Home Sharing" and sign in with the same Apple ID.

Step 4 On your Apple TV, go to the "Computers" app and select your shared library. Find the downloaded Netflix content and play it on your Apple TV.

Option 2: AirPlay

Step 1 On your laptop, open iTunes or the Apple TV app and ensure the downloaded Netflix files are uploaded to your library.

Step 2 Connect your iPhone or iPad that supports AirPlay to your laptop and sync the files.

Step 3 Open the downloaded Netflix content on your iPhone or iPad.

Step 4 Tap the AirPlay icon and select your Apple TV from the list of available devices. The content will start streaming on your TV.

Option 3: Third-Party Apps

Apps like Beamer or Airflow offer a simple drag-and-drop function. This function allows you to stream any movie to Apple TV instantly. There is a simple tutorial:

Step 1 Install an app like Beamer from its official website on your Mac.

Step 2 Open the app. After registering, drag the downloaded Netflix content into the window.

Step 3 Now, the content will start playing on your Apple TV.

Pro Tips: How to Sign Out of Netflix from Apple TV

If you want to sign out of Netflix from your Apple TV, just three steps.

Step 1 Press the Menu button on your remote while in the Netflix app.

Step 2 Go to "Settings" in Netflix app.

Step 3 Scroll down to select "Sign Out." in the left lower corner.

To switch accounts, you can sign in with a different account if needed.

Conclusion:

Watching Netflix on your Apple TV is a seamless experience. A bigger screen and more options give you a more fun experience. For those looking for a reliable offline viewing option, ViWizard Netflix Video Downloader offers a perfect solution. With ViWizard Netflix Video Downloader, you can get high-quality movies, TV series, or live TV. Try it for free today!

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