Apple TV is one of the most popular OTT platforms on the market. So it’s no wonder that Apple TV app development is getting popular. Not only is Apple’s streaming service easy to use, but TVOS also integrates with other Apple devices. So if you’re a video publisher or channel, creating an Apple TV app is a great investment.
According to Statista, Apple customers are more likely to spend on in-app purchases and services than users of other operating systems. Reaching these viewers could help you better monetize your video business.
There are so many ways to create an Apple TV app. But getting started isn’t as tough as it seems. In this article, we’ll walk you through 6 easy ways to build an Apple TV app, including make-your-own video app services like MAZ or the route of hiring an agency. So before we list the 6 best ways to create an Apple TV app, let’s start with some background information:
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Let’s understand what ‘Apple TV’ really is. First and foremost, Apple TV refers to the box device which can turn almost any TV into a streaming-ready set. Apple TV also refers to the software that powers this device. With the Apple TV software, users can enjoy native Apple TV apps from their favorite video publishers, like Netflix, Disney+, HBO, etc.
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With the debut of Apple TV+ in 2019, Apple began to make its push as a serious streaming contender. The service, which includes original programming as well as third party channels, is one of the biggest OTT platforms available. Apple TV+ normally costs $4.99 per month, but is currently free for a whole year with an Apple device purchase. This push from Apple has helped make Apple TV apps some of the most popular in the OTT industry.
So if you’re looking to create your own Apple TV app, check out our top 6 solutions below:
MAZ is the #1 most trusted OTT app building platform. With MAZ you can easily develop and deploy your own custom Apple TV apps, rich with features and beautiful designs. No coding or design experience needed to get started. Not to mention, MAZ video streaming apps boast some impressive stats, such as users spending 3x as much time in-app and 8x more sessions per user. If you are a business looking to invest in a serious Apple TV solution and want the industry best, you can’t go wrong with MAZ.
Quality of app: 5 out of 5 stars
Ease of use: 5 out of 5 stars
Price: 4 out of 5 stars
Speed: 5 out of 5 stars
Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
Tappla is a quick and dirty option for emerging companies. Tappla aims to please even the least tech-savvy customers. The developer resource claims to allow users to easily build an Apple TV app in as little as five minutes. Best of all? There are no coding skills required and the app allows for a full Vimeo integration. Tappla’s hosting pricing starts at $47 per month for the basic package, which includes a fully-customized Apple TV app. However, this is definitely a case of getting what you pay for in terms of quality.
Quality of app: 1 out of 5 stars
Ease of use: 4 out of 5 stars
Price: 5 out of 5 stars
Speed: 3 out of 5 stars
Overall: 3 out of 5 stars
Lightcast is a platform that offers dozens of generic solutions for app development. The platform has launched many Apple TV apps and currently has three tiers to choose from: The first is a custom-led Apple TV development, in which you send your requirements and spec sheets to receive a quote. The second option is a purchased SDK-based Apple TV development. You will need significant coding experience to use this solution. Finally, Lightcast’s third option is a leased SDK-based Apple TV Development. This allows customers to get their Apple TV app developed launched at a monthly fee instead of paying for the full rate up front.
Quality of app: 2 out of 5 stars
Ease of use: 2 out of 5 stars
Price: 3 out of 5 stars
Speed: 3 out of 5 stars
Overall: 3 out of 5 stars
Muvi’s native tvOS platform is a solid mid-tier option for smaller companies. With Muvi, you can create your own Apple TV app by uploading content and choosing a pre-loaded design. Muvi offers white-label streaming app creation. This means your Apple TV app will integrate into your existing content marketing plan. The best perk of the one-stop-shop development tool is having all tech support handled by Muvi. However, your functionality will be much more limited when compared to other solutions like MAZ. Muvi’s smart TV app packages start at $399 per month.
Quality of app: 3 out of 5 stars
Ease of use: 5 out of 5 stars
Price: 4 out of 5 stars
Speed: 5 out of 5 stars
Overall: 4 out of 5 stars
Perhaps the most difficult (but possibly most rewarding) option is creating your own Apple TV app. If you don’t know how to code in TVOS, there are many DIY Apple TV app development resources like Udemy and Skillshare. A full-on DIY route puts you in control of your own destiny and could potentially save you some money. However, it’s also the most time-consuming method and will likely produce a substandard product, unless you have prior app development and design experience.
Quality of app: 2 out of 5 stars
Ease of use: 1 out of 5 stars
Price: 5 out of 5 stars
Speed: 1 out of 5 stars
Overall: 2 out of 5 stars
The most expensive and extensive option for developing your own Apple TV app is hiring an agency or developer to do it. If you have the budget, this could be an excellent way to execute a personalized Apple TV app design. But beware, commissioning an agency to create an Apple TV is said to cost tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars at a minimum. Not to mention, a recurring monthly fee that covers hosting and tech support will also set you back several hundred dollars. Costs can quickly add up, and choosing the right agency will be key. But if you want a no-touch method to get things done, there’s nothing better than hiring someone else to do the dirty work.
Quality of app: 5 out of 5 stars
Ease of use: 5 out of 5 stars
Price: 1 out of 5 stars
Speed: 1 out of 5 stars
Overall: 3 out of 5 stars
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Creating an Apple TV app is not as daunting as it seems. And with millions of Apple users hungry for streaming content, there’s never been a better time to get started. The good news is that no matter how big or small your business may be, there’s a solution out there that’s right for you.
If you’re looking to make money on Apple TV, be sure to get in touch with us here at MAZ. Our team has developed thousands of apps for millions of end users. There’s a reason why top brands like Conde Nast, Forbes, Wired and so many more trust MAZ with their app development.
Thank you for reading our guide to creating Apple TV apps, and best of luck!
