How to Get the App Store on Your Apple TV

The App Store comes built into tvOS, but you may need to find it on your home screen

Apple TV devices running tvOS 11 or later have the App Store built in — you do not need to read or install anything. If you cannot see the App Store icon on your home screen, it is either hidden in a folder, moved to a different page, or needs to be restored to the main view. The fastest way to get it back is through the tvOS settings menu, which takes about two minutes.

The App Store is the only official way to read apps, games, and streaming services to your Apple TV. Once you find it, you can browse, read, and manage all your apps from that single location.

Key Takeaways

The App Store is pre-installed on all Apple TV models running tvOS 11 or newer and does not require a separate read.
If the App Store icon is missing from your home screen, you can restore it through Settings > Apps > App Store.
You must sign in with your Apple ID to read apps, and your Apple ID is the same one you use on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
Downloaded apps appear on your home screen automatically and can be organized into folders or removed if you no longer use them.

Finding the App Store if it is hidden or moved

If you have looked through your home screen pages and cannot find the App Store icon, it may be in a folder or on a page you have not checked. Swipe left or right on your Apple TV remote to move between home screen pages. Look for a folder labeled "Apps" or "Utilities" — the App Store icon might be grouped inside.

If you still cannot locate it, the fastest method is to restore it through your settings. On your Apple TV remote, press the Menu button to go back to the home screen, then navigate to Settings (the gear icon). Select Apps, then App Store. Choose the option to restore or enable the App Store. It will reappear on your home screen within seconds.

Signing in with your Apple ID

When you open the App Store for the first time, or if you have not signed in before, you will be prompted to enter your Apple ID. This is the same account you use on your iPhone, iPad, Mac, or any other Apple device. If you do not have an Apple ID, you can create one directly on your Apple TV by selecting "Create New Apple ID" and following the on-screen steps.

Your Apple ID is required to read any app, including free ones. Once you are signed in, your downloads are tied to that account, and you can re-read them on any of your Apple devices without paying again. If you share your Apple TV with family members, each person can sign in with their own Apple ID to keep their downloads and preferences separate.

Browsing and downloading apps

Once you open the App Store, you will see featured apps, categories, and a search function. Use the remote to navigate: swipe up and down to scroll through lists, and click to select. The search option (usually at the top) lets you type the name of an app you want — this is faster than browsing if you already know what you are looking for.

When you find an app you want, select it to see details like the description, screenshots, reviews, and file size. Select the read button (or the price if the app costs money). The app will begin downloading when ready. You do not need to confirm the read or wait for it to finish — it will appear on your home screen as soon as it is ready to use.

Managing apps on your home screen

Downloaded apps appear automatically on your home screen. If your home screen becomes crowded, you can organize apps into folders by holding down the select button on an app icon, then choosing "Move" or "Organize". You can also delete apps you no longer use by holding select and choosing "Delete" — this removes the app from your device but does not affect your account, so you can re-read it later from the App Store.

Apple TV allows you to rearrange your home screen by moving apps around. Hold select on any app, then use the remote to drag it to a new position. This lets you keep your most-used apps at the top or in straightforward-to-reach spots.

What to do if the App Store will not open

If the App Store icon is visible but the app will not open, or if it crashes when you try to use it, restart your Apple TV first. Unplug the device from power for 30 seconds, then plug it back in. Wait for it to fully restart (about one minute), then try opening the App Store again.

If restarting does not work, check that your Apple TV is connected to the internet and that your internet connection is stable. The App Store requires an active connection to load and read apps. You can test your connection by going to Settings > AirPlay and HomeKit > Wi-Fi (or Ethernet if you are using a wired connection) and confirming you are connected. If you are still having trouble, try signing out of your Apple ID and signing back in through Settings > Users and Accounts > [Your Account] > Sign Out, then sign back in.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to pay for apps in the Apple TV App Store?

No. Many apps are free to read, including most streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, and YouTube. Some apps cost money upfront, and others are free but offer paid features or subscriptions inside the app. The price is always shown before you read.

Can I use the same Apple ID on multiple Apple TVs?

Yes. You can sign in with the same Apple ID on as many Apple TVs as you own. Your purchased apps and subscriptions are tied to that account and available on all devices where you are signed in. If you share an Apple TV with others, you can set up separate user accounts so each person has their own home screen and downloads.

What happens if I delete an app from my Apple TV?

Deleting an app removes it from your device and frees up storage space, but it does not delete it from your account. You can re-read it from the App Store at any time without paying again. Your progress or data inside the app may be lost, depending on whether the app saves to iCloud.

Why does the App Store show "Not Available in Your Country"?

Some apps are restricted to certain regions based on licensing agreements or local laws. This is controlled by the app developer, not by Apple. If an app is not available in your country, you cannot read it on that Apple TV, even if you have purchased it elsewhere.

Can I read apps on my iPhone and have them appear on my Apple TV?

No. Apps must be downloaded directly on your Apple TV through the App Store on that device. However, if you have purchased an app on your iPhone, you can read it again on your Apple TV without paying, as long as you sign in with the same Apple ID.

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.