Subscription streaming
How Apple TV builds for TV
Native-first on tvOS, then ported as apps onto competitor TV platforms.
Where Apple TV runs
General availability across the major smart-TV platforms. Support changes over time.
How Apple TV is built for TV
On Apple's own tvOS the app is native, built with the platform's focus engine and TVMLKit. On Samsung, LG, Roku, Fire TV, Android TV, and Vizio it ships as a platform app so Apple's content reaches non-Apple hardware.
It is a clean example of native-where-it-counts, ported-everywhere-else, and of designing around each platform's focus model.
Building something like Apple TV?
- tvOS has its own focus engine and strict App Store review. Budget time for both.
- A native flagship plus ported apps is a valid strategy for reaching every living room.
- Respect each platform's native navigation instead of forcing one interaction model.
Apple TV on TV: FAQ
Which TV platforms is Apple TV on?+
Apple TV runs on essentially every major smart-TV platform, including Tizen, webOS, Roku, Fire TV, Android TV, tvOS, SmartCast.
Is Apple TV a native or web app on TV?+
Apple TV is a native app on TV, with rendering handled by TVMLKit / native on tvOS, packaged apps elsewhere.
How do I build a TV app like Apple TV?+
tvOS has its own focus engine and strict App Store review. Budget time for both. From there, our cross-platform testing and deployment guides cover the packaging and certification flow for each platform.
Sources & further reading
Availability and engineering details are compiled from public sources and change over time. Apple TV is a trademark of its owner; this page is an independent developer reference and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Apple TV.