Yes, you can download movies purchased on Apple TV, but the process varies depending on the device you’re using. Downloading movies allows you to watch them offline, offering convenient entertainment during travel or in areas with limited internet access. This comprehensive guide breaks down the exact steps for downloading your Apple TV purchases across all compatible platforms.
Understanding Download Limitations and Considerations
Before diving into the “how-to,” it’s crucial to understand some fundamental limitations and considerations related to downloading Apple TV movie purchases. Apple’s ecosystem prioritizes streaming, and while downloads are possible, they’re not universally available or unlimited.
- Device Compatibility: Not all Apple devices support downloading movies. Older models, or devices with insufficient storage, might be restricted.
- Storage Space: Downloading large HD or 4K movies requires significant storage space. Ensure you have enough free space on your device before attempting a download.
- Download Quality: You can often choose the download quality (SD, HD, 4K), which affects file size. Opting for lower quality saves space.
- Rental vs. Purchase: This guide focuses exclusively on downloading purchased movies. Rented movies have a limited viewing window and cannot be permanently downloaded after that period expires.
- DRM Protection: Downloaded movies are protected by Digital Rights Management (DRM). This prevents unauthorized copying and distribution. The movies can only be viewed through the Apple TV app on authorized devices.
Downloading on iPhone and iPad
These are arguably the most popular devices for downloading Apple TV movies for on-the-go viewing.
- Open the Apple TV app: Locate and launch the Apple TV app on your iPhone or iPad.
- Navigate to your Library: Tap the “Library” tab at the bottom of the screen.
- Select “Movies”: Choose “Movies” from the Library options.
- Find Your Purchased Movie: Browse or search for the movie you wish to download.
- Tap the Download Icon: Look for the cloud icon with a downward arrow next to the movie title. Tap this icon to begin the download.
- Monitor Download Progress: A progress indicator will appear, showing the status of the download.
- Offline Viewing: Once downloaded, the cloud icon will be replaced by a play button. You can now watch the movie offline.
Managing Download Quality on iOS/iPadOS
You can adjust the default download quality within the Apple TV app settings.
- Open Settings: Go to the “Settings” app on your iPhone or iPad.
- Scroll down to “TV”: Find and select “TV” in the settings list.
- Adjust Download Options: Under “Downloads,” you can choose between “Highest Quality” (larger file size) and “Fast Downloads” (lower quality).
Downloading on Mac
Downloading movies on your Mac provides a convenient way to watch them on a larger screen without relying on a constant internet connection.
- Open the Apple TV app: Launch the Apple TV app on your Mac.
- Navigate to Your Library: Click on the “Library” tab in the sidebar.
- Select “Movies”: Choose “Movies” from the Library options.
- Find Your Purchased Movie: Locate the movie you want to download.
- Click the Download Icon: Similar to iOS, click the cloud icon with a downward arrow next to the movie title.
- Monitor Download Progress: A progress indicator will show the download status.
- Offline Viewing: After downloading, the movie will be available for offline viewing within the Apple TV app.
Downloading on Apple TV (Device)
This is where things get tricky. While you can stream your purchased movies on an Apple TV device, the ability to directly download them onto the device itself is not supported. The Apple TV is designed primarily for streaming.
However, a workaround exists involving Home Sharing. You can download the movie to a computer on your network and then stream it to your Apple TV device from that computer. This provides a “downloaded” experience, even though the file isn’t physically stored on the Apple TV. Setting up Home Sharing is outside the scope of this article.
FAQs: Apple TV Movie Downloads
Here are 12 frequently asked questions about downloading Apple TV movies:
FAQ 1: Why can’t I find the download icon?
Ensure you have actually purchased the movie and not just rented it. The download icon will only appear for purchased movies. Also, check if you are signed in with the Apple ID used to make the purchase. Finally, confirm your device has sufficient storage space.
FAQ 2: How do I delete downloaded movies to free up space?
On iPhone/iPad: Within the Apple TV app, long-press on the downloaded movie title. Select “Remove,” then choose “Remove Download.” On Mac: Right-click (or Control-click) on the downloaded movie title in the Apple TV app. Select “Remove Download.”
FAQ 3: Can I download movies on my Android phone or tablet?
No. The Apple TV app, which is required for downloading purchased movies, is not available on Android devices.
FAQ 4: Can I download movies on my smart TV?
It depends on the smart TV. If your smart TV has the Apple TV app installed (like some Samsung, LG, and Sony models), you might be able to download movies, but it’s not universally supported. Check the specific Apple TV app version and your TV’s specifications. Usually, the focus is on streaming rather than downloading.
FAQ 5: Can I copy the downloaded movie file to another device?
No. Downloaded movies are DRM-protected and can only be played within the Apple TV app on authorized devices logged in with the Apple ID used for the purchase.
FAQ 6: What happens if my download is interrupted?
The download should automatically resume from where it left off once your internet connection is restored. If it doesn’t, you may need to cancel the download and start again.
FAQ 7: Can I download movies in 4K?
Yes, if the movie is available in 4K and your device supports 4K playback. You may need to adjust the download quality settings to “Highest Quality” to ensure you’re downloading the 4K version. Keep in mind this will require significant storage space.
FAQ 8: I purchased a movie but it’s not showing up in my library. What should I do?
First, ensure you’re signed in to the Apple TV app with the correct Apple ID. Then, try signing out and signing back in. If the movie still doesn’t appear, contact Apple Support.
FAQ 9: Is there a limit to how many devices I can download a movie onto?
Apple’s DRM allows you to authorize a certain number of devices with your Apple ID. There is a limit, and exceeding it will prevent you from downloading on new devices until you deauthorize older ones.
FAQ 10: Can I watch downloaded movies while offline on a plane?
Yes! That’s the primary benefit of downloading movies. As long as the movie is fully downloaded before you lose internet connectivity, you can watch it offline.
FAQ 11: Will downloaded movies expire?
No. Purchased movies do not expire. As long as you maintain your Apple ID and the movie remains available on the Apple TV store, you can download it again in the future if needed.
FAQ 12: Why is my downloaded movie blurry or low quality?
This could be due to a few factors:
- Download Quality Settings: Ensure your download quality setting is set to “Highest Quality.”
- Internet Connection During Download: A weak internet connection during the download process might result in a lower-quality download. Try deleting the download and re-downloading with a stable connection.
- Device Compatibility: Older devices might not support higher resolutions.
Conclusion
Downloading movies purchased on Apple TV is a valuable feature for offline viewing. By understanding the limitations and following these guidelines, you can easily access your purchased content whenever and wherever you want. Remember to manage your storage space and adjust download quality as needed to optimize your viewing experience. Enjoy your downloaded movies!