How to Watch the Super Bowl on Apple TV

You can watch the Super Bowl on Apple TV, but only through the network that broadcasts it that year

Apple TV does not show the Super Bowl directly. Instead, you watch it through an app — CBS, Fox, or NBC, depending on which network has the broadcast rights that year. The Super Bowl rotates among these three networks on a three-year cycle, so the channel changes annually. You need either a cable or streaming TV subscription that includes the network broadcasting that year, or you can buy the game through the network's app if it offers that option.

The easiest path is to check which network is airing the Super Bowl that year, then open that network's app on your Apple TV. If you already subscribe to cable or a streaming service like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, or Sling TV, you can sign in with your existing account and watch for free through the app.

Key Takeaways

The Super Bowl airs on CBS, Fox, or NBC depending on the year — check the NFL schedule to see which network has it.
You watch through the network's app on Apple TV, not through Apple's own service.
If you have a cable or live TV streaming subscription, you can sign in to the network app and watch at no extra cost.
Some networks allow you to buy the game directly through their app if you don't have a subscription, though prices and availability vary by year.

Which network broadcasts the Super Bowl this year

The Super Bowl broadcast rights rotate among CBS, Fox, and NBC. CBS aired it in 2024, Fox will air it in 2025, and NBC will air it in 2026. After that, the cycle repeats. You can confirm the current year's network on the official NFL website or by searching "Super Bowl [year] network."

Once you know which network is broadcasting, read that network's app to your Apple TV. CBS has the CBS app, Fox has the Fox Now app, and NBC has the NBC app. All three are available in the Apple TV App Store.

Signing in with a cable or streaming TV subscription

If you pay for cable or a live TV streaming service, you likely already have access to the Super Bowl broadcast. Open the network's app on your Apple TV and select "Sign In." You will be asked to choose your TV provider from a list — this includes cable companies like Comcast and Verizon, and streaming services like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, and DirecTV Stream.

Select your provider and enter your login credentials. The app will verify your subscription and let you watch the game live. This process is the same whether you use cable or a streaming service — the network just needs to confirm you have an active subscription to that channel.

Buying the Super Bowl without a subscription

Some networks allow you to purchase the Super Bowl game directly through their app without a subscription, though this is not may provide every year. Pricing and availability depend on the network and the specific year. Check the network's app a few days before the game to see if a purchase option is available.

If the network offers a purchase option, the price is typically between $5 and $10, though this varies. You will need an Apple ID with a valid payment method on file. After you buy the game, you can watch it on any device signed into that Apple ID.

Using AirPlay to watch on a TV without Apple TV

If you don't have an Apple TV device but you have an iPhone, iPad, or Mac, you can watch the Super Bowl on those devices and then use AirPlay to send the video to a compatible smart TV. Open the network's app on your Apple device, sign in with your subscription or purchase, and start the game. Then swipe up from the bottom of your screen (or use Control Center on newer devices) and tap AirPlay. Select your TV from the list.

AirPlay works with most modern smart TVs, including Samsung, LG, Sony, and Vizio models made in the last five years. If your TV is older or does not support AirPlay, you can use an Apple TV device or an AirPlay adapter like the AirPlay 2 receiver built into some sound systems.

What to do if the network app won't let you sign in

If you have a valid subscription but the network app says your login is invalid, restart the app and try again. If that does not work, sign out completely, restart your Apple TV, and sign back in. Sometimes the authentication servers are temporarily slow, especially on game day when traffic is high.

If the problem persists, contact your TV provider's customer service — they can confirm your subscription is active and reset your login if needed. Have your account number and the email address associated with your subscription ready. The provider can usually resolve the issue in a few minutes.

Streaming quality and internet speed requirements

The Super Bowl streams in HD on most networks, and some offer 4K if you have a compatible device and internet connection. To stream HD without buffering, you need at least 5 Mbps read speed. For 4K, aim for 25 Mbps or higher. Run a speed test on your phone or computer before game day to confirm your connection is fast enough.

If your internet is slower than 5 Mbps, move your Apple TV closer to your router or use a wired ethernet connection if possible. If you are using Wi-Fi, keep the Apple TV away from walls and other devices that might interfere with the signal. On game day, avoid running other bandwidth-heavy activities like large downloads or video calls on other devices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I watch the Super Bowl on Apple TV+ with a subscription?

No. Apple TV+ is a separate service that does not include the Super Bowl. You need the network app (CBS, Fox, or NBC) and either a cable or streaming TV subscription, or you need to purchase the game directly through that network's app.

What if I don't have cable or a streaming service?

Check whether the network broadcasting that year offers a direct purchase option through its app. If not, you can sign up for a one-month subscription to a streaming service like YouTube TV or Hulu + Live TV, watch the game, and cancel after. Some services offer free trial periods, though these vary by year and location.

Can I watch the Super Bowl on Apple TV if I'm outside the United States?

Broadcast rights vary by country. In most countries outside the US, the Super Bowl is shown on local networks or sports streaming services specific to that region. Check what services are available in your country or contact your local cable provider.

Will the Super Bowl stream in 4K on Apple TV?

Some years the network offers 4K streaming, but not every year. Check the network's app a few days before the game to see if 4K is available. You will need an Apple TV 4K device, a 4K-capable TV, and an internet connection of at least 25 Mbps.

What happens if the app crashes during the game?

Force close the app and reopen it — you should be able to resume from where you left off or restart the broadcast. If the app keeps crashing, restart your Apple TV completely. If the problem continues, try signing in on a different device or contact the network's customer support.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.