Apple Entertainment Charge Explained – Pricing, Features, and How to Cancel Apple TV+

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What Is the Apple Entertainment Charge?

The “Apple Entertainment charge” typically refers to the monthly or annual subscription fee for Apple TV+, Apple’s ad-free streaming service that offers original series, movies, and select live sports. As of September 2025, the standard monthly price for Apple TV+ is $12.99 in the United States, following a recent 30% increase from $9.99 [1] [2] . The annual subscription remains $99, which can save over $50 per year compared to paying monthly [1] .

Apple TV+ is known for its award-winning originals such as
Ted Lasso
,
Severance
,
The Morning Show
, and
Bad Sisters
[2] . Subscribers also get access to two live Major League Baseball (MLB) games each week during the season, included at no extra cost [2] . For soccer fans, Apple offers the MLS Season Pass as an add-on, with additional pricing for that service [2] .

New subscribers can try Apple TV+ free for seven days before being charged [2] . If you purchase a new Apple device, you may also be eligible for a three-month free trial, provided you redeem the offer within 90 days of setting up your device [2] . The service is available in over 100 countries, with local pricing varying by region [2] .

Apple TV+ Features and Benefits

Apple TV+ stands out in the crowded streaming market by focusing exclusively on original content-there are no licensed network TV shows or movies from other studios [3] . All programming is available in 4K high definition with no ads, and you can stream on up to six devices simultaneously [3] . Family sharing is supported, allowing up to five family members to access the service under one subscription [3] .

For those who use multiple Apple services, bundling through Apple One can offer savings. Apple One combines Apple TV+ with other services like Apple Music and iCloud, with plans starting at $19.95 per month for individuals and going up to $37.95 per month for the Premier tier, which includes more services and expanded family sharing [5] .

How to Cancel Apple TV+ (Apple Entertainment)

If you decide Apple TV+ no longer fits your entertainment needs or budget, canceling your subscription is straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide to canceling, whether you subscribed directly, through a device purchase promotion, or as part of Apple One:

Cancel Directly Through Apple

If you signed up for Apple TV+ through Apple’s website or your Apple ID, follow these steps:

Open the Settings app on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch.
Tap your name at the top of the screen to access your Apple ID settings.
Select “Subscriptions.”
Find Apple TV+ in your list of active subscriptions.
Tap “Cancel Subscription” and confirm your choice.

Alternatively, you can manage your subscriptions through a web browser by visiting the official Apple ID account page. Sign in, navigate to “Subscriptions,” select Apple TV+, and choose to cancel.

Cancel If You Subscribed Through a Third Party

If you subscribed to Apple TV+ through a third-party provider (such as your cable company or a mobile carrier), you’ll need to cancel through that provider’s website or customer service. Apple cannot cancel subscriptions billed by other companies.

Cancel as Part of Apple One

If Apple TV+ is included in your Apple One bundle, you have two options:

Downgrade Your Apple One Plan: You can switch to a lower-tier Apple One plan that doesn’t include Apple TV+. Go to your Apple ID subscriptions, select Apple One, and choose a different plan.
Cancel Apple One Entirely: This will end all services included in your bundle. Follow the same steps as canceling a direct Apple TV+ subscription, but select Apple One instead.

What Happens After Cancellation?

After you cancel, you’ll retain access to Apple TV+ until the end of your current billing period. You won’t be charged again, and your subscription will not renew automatically. If you have a free trial (such as the three-month offer with a new device), canceling before the trial ends ensures you aren’t charged.

Managing Your Apple Entertainment Expenses

With the recent price increase, some users may be re-evaluating their streaming budgets. Here are a few strategies to manage costs:

Switch to Annual Billing: Paying $99 per year instead of $12.99 monthly saves more than $50 annually [1] .
Bundle with Apple One: If you use multiple Apple services, bundling can reduce your overall monthly expense [5] .
Take Advantage of Free Trials: Use the seven-day free trial or the three-month offer with a new Apple device to sample the service before committing [2] .
Share with Family: Apple TV+ allows family sharing, so you can split the cost with up to five others [3] .

Potential Challenges and Solutions

Some users may encounter issues when trying to cancel, such as not seeing the subscription in their Apple ID settings. This usually means the subscription is billed through a third party, and you’ll need to contact that provider directly. If you’re unsure, check your bank or credit card statements to see where the charge originates.

Another common challenge is accidental re-subscription. Apple TV+ (and other Apple services) often promote re-subscribing through device prompts or app notifications. To avoid this, carefully review any pop-up messages and ensure you don’t inadvertently restart your subscription.

Alternatives to Apple TV+

If you’re canceling Apple TV+ to reduce expenses or explore other options, consider these alternatives:

Other Streaming Services: Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video offer extensive libraries with both original and licensed content.
Free Ad-Supported Platforms: Services like Tubi, Pluto TV, and The Roku Channel provide free, ad-supported entertainment.
Live TV and Sports Packages: If live sports are a priority, explore services like YouTube TV, Sling TV, or DIRECTV STREAM, which offer broader live channel lineups.

References

[1] Techloy (2025). Apple TV+ monthly subscription cost rises 30 percent.

[2] Business Insider (2025). How much does Apple TV Plus cost? Pricing, plans, and features.

[3] NerdWallet (2025). How much does Apple TV+ cost? Pricing and features overview.

[5] Apple (2025). Apple One subscription plans and pricing.