The release of Apple TV+ has finally arrived and while it’s great that there is direct integration with iOS and macOS devices, there’s something even better. Apple decided to expand its walled garden to include other streaming devices including Roku and Amazon’s Fire TV.
However, whenever there is a new release on a new platform, there are bound to be bugs and that seems to be the case with Roku owners. Many users have found that the Apple TV app for Roku is not working as advertised or expected.
Is the Apple TV app compatible with my Roku?
The first question that every Roku owner should ask themselves is whether the Apple TV app will work with the Roku device you are using. After Apple announced TV+ support for Roku devices, the company made a convenient list regarding which devices will be compatible.
One of the most common issues for the Apple TV app for Roku not working is after you have signed into your account. Reports of corrupted movie files have been spanning the web and Apple’s Community Forums after signing up for TV+ with your Roku.
Others report similar issues such as getting a message that certain videos are unavailable or the device cannot view them for no apparent reason. And then finally, users have reported not even being able to log into their Apple TV+ account, despite knowing that the password is correct.
How to fix the Apple TV app on Roku
Thankfully for Roku owners, you don’t have to run out and cancel your TV+ subscription or spend more money on something like an Apple TV. Instead, there are a few different methods you can test out in order to get the TV app working on your Roku streaming device.
Try uninstalling, restarting, and clearing cache on Roku
The most obvious response to an app not working on just about anything is to uninstall it, and then re-install it. But even before that, you can attempt to knock out the cobwebs by restarting your Roku first. Here’s how you can restart your Roku:
Press the Home Button five (5) times on your remote
Press the UpArrow once
Hit the Rewind Button twice
Press the Fast Forward button twice
This will automatically restart your Roku after a few moments, and then you can attempt to open the Apple TV app again. When restarting the Roku, this method automatically clears the cache on your Roku, essentially getting two birds with one stone.
If that doesn’t work, you’ll want to uninstall the Apple TV app and then reinstall it onto your Roku device.
Press the Home Button on your remote
Move to the right until you highlight the Apple TV app
Press the Star Button on your remote to open the Options Menu
Select Remove Channel and confirm
Once completed, you will want to restart the Roku again using the steps above. After you reboot the Roku, head into the Channel Store and re-download the Apple TV app and sign in.
Are you using two Apple ID’s?
iOS devices, and more importantly, iTunes, has been around for quite some time. It’s no secret that people have a tendency of creating multiple Apple ID profiles when they can’t remember the password or just simply forgot.
In some instances, folks use both Apple ID accounts with one designation for iTunes and the other for iCloud. When you come across that issue, you need to ensure that the correct email/Apple ID has been entered into the TV+ app on your Roku.
Here’s how you can sign out of the incorrect Apple ID:
Press the Home Button on your remote
Move to the right until you highlight the Apple TV app
Open the Apple TV app
Scroll to the right until you reach Settings and press OK on your remote
Press the down arrow to highlight Accounts and press OK on your remote
Select Sign Out
Confirm that you want to Sign Out
From there, open the Apple TV app on your Roku and follow the instructions to sign in to the correct account.
Did you install the Apple TV app on an SD Card?
Some Roku devices are equipped with SD Card slots which allow you to not only store movies and other content, but also apps. However, it seems that Apple has made it so that its TV app cannot be installed directly onto an SD Card. Instead, you will need to remove the app from the card and install it onto the Roku directly.
Here’s what you’ll need to do if you’ve installed the app on an SD Card through your Roku:
Uninstall the Apple TV app from your Roku
Unplug the Roku and remove the SD Card
Plug in your Roku and power it on
Re-install the Apple TV app
Sign in to your Apple TV+ account
From here, you can either proceed down the method of signing in with your Mobile Device (when prompted) or just with your username and password. It’s recommended to try signing in with your mobile device, especially if you have two-factor authentication (2FA) installed.
It’s unknown whether Apple will fix this “bug” and make it possible to install the TV app on an SD card. For the time being, we wouldn’t recommend re-downloading the app to the SD Card and just leave it installed on the Roku itself.
Apple TV+ subscription not working or showing up on your Roku?
Apple TV + is Apple’s original content streaming service. On your Roku, Apple TV+ is available through Roku’s Apple TV app/channel.
If the Apple TV app is working on your Roku but you are not able to connect to your Apple TV+ subscription, let’s look at a few tips to help.
Update your Roku(s) to their latest software versions in Settings > System > System Update
After updating, power off your connected television, wait 1-2 minutes, and power it back on
Then, check if your Apple TV+ subscription shows up
Sign out of the Apple TV app, restart your TV, and then sign back in
Uninstall the Apple TV app, power your TV off then back on, and then reinstall the Apple TV app from Roku’s App Store—and sign in with your Apple ID.
Helpful tips when using Apple TV app with your Roku
This is a brand-new venture for Apple as it branches out into the uncontrollable world of working with other streaming devices. That doesn’t mean that Apple didn’t take the time to throw some extra tricks up its sleeve to bring some “Apple Magic” to Roku.
Sign in using your mobile device
It is super annoying having to try and remember your username and password for every service, app, or anything else that you use. Apple knows this and has included a feature to use your mobile device in order to sign in, provided that you have downloaded the Roku app on your iPhone or iPad.
When signing in to the Apple TV app on Roku, you are prompted to sign in using the Roku remote (Sign In On This TV) or using your Mobile device. as we mentioned above, you must have the Roku app installed on your iPhone or iPad in order for this to work. But it makes signing in so much easier.
View your Library
Chances are that you have built-up quite the extensive Library of content through iTunes and now the TV application. With the Apple TV app, you are still given access to all of your content and can view everything through the Roku app.
There are sections for your Recent Purchases, along with TV Shows, Movies, and anything shared through Family Sharing. But the TV app also breaks up your content into different genre’s so you can find the right movie based on the mood of the day or night.
Use your iPhone as the Roku remote
Keeping track of remotes can be super annoying as these remotes easily get lost, misplaced, or just straight-up disappear. When you download the Roku app, you remove the need for keeping the Roku remote near you at all times.
After downloading the app, you can use your iPhone as the Roku remote to navigate and find the content you want to watch. You can even switch between Roku Channels and choose content downloaded directly to the Roku to consume if you have a compatible Roku device.
Conclusion
Apple has really pulled out all the stops when it comes to getting the new Apple TV app and TV+ into the hands of more users. Roku is one of the more popular options for streaming devices, as it’s also built right into various televisions.
Let us know if you’ve started using the new Apple TV app on your Roku and how your experiences have been. In the meantime, let us know about your favorite Apple TV+ shows that have been released since the launch of the streaming service.
Andrew is a freelance writer based on the East Coast of the US.
He has written for a variety of sites over the years, including iMore, Android Central, Phandroid, and a few others. Now, he spends his days working for an HVAC company, while moonlighting as a freelance writer at night.
Video not available error repeatedly and not fixable. First an unending loop of login problems. No QR or other code appeared in order to activate it on Roku TV. it is just an unending nightmare of refusing to work even after installing, reinstalling, playing a preview momentarily and then completely refusing to play shows / subscribed content. NONE of the so-called fixes offered by roku or apple community members have worked.
Neither Apple nor Roku has a solution because they blame it on each other and NEITHER TECH GIANT who could not care less about customers who and have done nothing to resolve this multi-year long bug. sending back the ROKU TV & CANCELLING APPLE TV. That is the only way they will listen to customers.
I’ve had the same problem so many people are naming where AppleTV+ randomly won’t play certain episodes. I’ve been looking for a fix for years and I finally just found a tip on Reddit that worked!
Go to the Roku Settings > Audio > Streaming Audio Format and Digital Output Format — and change both of these audio settings from auto to be Dolby Digital.
I went back to the episode it wouldn’t play before and it immediately worked! Other times when it’s locked me out from an episode I’ve just given up and watched it on my computer or iPad, because the issue never went away. So, fingers crossed this fix takes care of it for good!
My two Roku players as well as the Samsung Smart TV app have the same problem. None of them recognize that I share in a Family Plan organized by my sister. Keep prompting me to accept a trial offer to watch Apple+. I did all the troubleshooting you identified, plus more, btw. All device models are compatible.
To watch Apple+ content on a TV, I have to use AirPlay streamed from my IPad. Can’t find a fix in any of the support sites online. Others are reporting the same problem. Suggestions welcome.
Thank you so much for this! Restarting the Roku fixed the Apple TV app for me. I was not able to see the menu bar on the Apple TV app. Also, Apple TV was zoomed in. Another forum said to change the from 720 to 1080, and that fixed the zoomed in problem, bur restarting the Roku fixed the menu bar problem. Thanks for taking the time to write this. Very helpful!
Despite the extensive article, I still can’t get Apple on my Roku. I bought a new Roku to specifically support Apple and it worked for a couple of days. When I go onto the website on my phone it says Apple TV is there, but it does not show up on my screen. I’ve reset I’ve done everything. The Roku tab is literally on my Roku remote. So I can’t even uninstall it from my TV because the icon won’t show up on my TV at all. Meanwhile I can watch it on my iPad and on my phone thank you
I have a hisense tv with a roku hooked up. I have netflix, prime,hulu, hbo,starz,disney, as well as other free channels loaded. content on all these sevices works without a problem. Noe apple tv lets me watch some series but not others. If i stop in middle of series i get content not available check internet connection. I performed all steps, restarts, ect. to no avail. I then thought watch on my pc as alternative, I cant get past sign in page where a free trial is offered over and over after explaining im an existing customer and im done. What form of streaming hell is this. when i called for assistance at apple i was transfered to 4 technicians, none of whom helped, Do you really want customers apple ? Im about ready to part ways and get refund as im not a masochist. This is not entertaining
People on the Roku channel have been reporting problems with the AppleTV+ app literally for years. None of the suggestions in this article get to the most annoying issue, which is that 4k just doesn’t work properly. There are all sorts of glitches primarily with video and sound that make AppleTV+ on the Roku unusable. Just for the record I have a fully HDMI 2.1/HDCP 2.3 compliant Denon AVR S760H 7.2ch 8K AV receiver that I spent considerable time researching prior to purchase, which I have hooked up to an LG Oled.
Some people have reported that if they reconfigure the roku app so that it drops everything down to SD, then these issues go away, but let’s just look at the evidence for a second.
Roku Apps I’ve personally used that have 4k content and work perfectly on my 2020 Roku Ultra w/4k include: Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, and Starz. The only app that has these issues is AppleTV+ in 4k.
So what you get is a finger pointing exercise between Roku who says: “contact apple” and from the Apple side — well they offer no support or contact for their Roku app. It really feels like Apple specifically doesn’t want to even be on Roku, and doesn’t care that their app is buggy on Roku. Meanwhile, the AppleTV app for the LG works fine on the TV’s WebOS! There is no way that this many people have issues with the app, and AppleTV doesn’t know about this. If they didn’t have their own competitive hardware, I would be less suspicious of their motives, but it really does feel deliberate, or some codec based bug that nobody at apple is interested or willing to debug and fix.
I cannot watch ANY series after the first one, nor return a few days later to a movie I was previously watching, without receiving an error message that says “video not available – check Internet connection. My Roku is connected directly via Eithernet cable to the router, there is no Internet connection issue. Furthermore my Roku doesn’t have an SD card. I’ve done all suggestions that Apple & Roku websites have given, about rebooting device, delete and reinstall the APP, etc. but nothing works. Very frustrating, and it will eventually mean I will cancel my Apple TV subscription.
My Apple TV+ works on my Roku, except after watching one episode of the new series Slow Horses, when I try to watch the second episode I get Video Not Available – There’s a problem loading this video. If this continues, check your internet connection. Everything else comes on just fine.
I’m unable to install Apple TV app on my Hitachi Roku tv. It acts as if it is installing with the spinning circle, however it never finishes. Please help
Can’t watch “the morning show” on Apple. Let me watch 4 episodes and then message “problems with loading video” comes on. Checked internet connection, tried the pressing home 5x…. and uninstalled and reinstalled apple+ Extremely frustrated!
Same thing happened with “We crashes”.
$$ back?
It works BUT… the resolution is not up to par. I am using a Roku that is on the compatibility list and a 48″ LG C1 OLED 4K TV. When played in this configuration, there is significant banding in gradations when using the Apple TV app on Roku that is not present when using the Apple TV app installed directly on the LG TV. My first thought was this is an issue between the Roku and the LG TV, but there is no banding seen in other apps like Netflix when their content is played through the Roku. Still trying to figure this out…
Continue to have problems ONLY with Apple TV on Roku Soundbar. Have removed the app, cleared the cache, checked the cables, updates etc & the problem persists. Infuriating!!!
Hi, thanks for all this info. I’m curious if anyone has run into the inability to access certain shows on Apple TV. We just purchased it and can open the app but when we try to watch Ted Lasso, it says it’s unavailable. We have tried removing the app from our Roku device and that didn’t work. TIA!
I just signed up for AppleTV+ and I get the video cannot play error on a Roku 4230. I’ve tried all of the band aide fixes with no success. Disney, Netflix, Amazon, YouTube, Plex, and other lesser known services all work fine. I have Gb internet and using the Roku 4230 RJ45 connection – it is NOT an internet connection or bandwidth issue. Apple: This is NOT a Roku problem. You wrote this app and it is an Apple software problem that needs to be fixed if you want people to continue subscribing to the service. Additionally the Apple TV android app is similarly buggy. Get your house in order and quit fingering pointing.
Still can’t get it to work with my roku 4200x. Its up to date for updates. My laptop on the same wireless works just fine but on the roku gets the Video Cannot Play error. About to cancel the apple account.
I have an LG TV and installed the Apple+ app however I cannot get anything to work. I cannot sign in or click on anything that works on the Apple+ page.
Cannot access the Video The Morning Show or Ted Lasso on my Roku yet the Rose Byrne video explaining how she likes Apple TV in the Wilderness plays fine. Makes no sense to me. I keep getting Video cannot play error. I’ve tried everything and was on the phone with Roku for over an hour and they couldn’t get it to play. Why can I play the Rose Byrne video but not the shows I want?
Apple TV won’t even open with my Roku. Also have top notch WiFi(fiber) and no issues with any other channel. I’ll get the loading symbol, twice, and then nothing. Ridiculous. Can’t wait to finally hear from Roku/Apple on what the problem is and getting it fixed.
Apple TV worked fine through Roku Premiere (which I purchased specifically for Apple TV) for months until we moved the TV. After several frustrating hours I broke down and purchased a new wifi node for our mesh system, thinking the extra 8 feet were the problem. Nope. More frustrating hours, in addition to the extra $$ spent. Apple is NO help. And Roku doesn’t seem to have any customer service whatsoever. All other services work fine. The Apple App is there and seems to be functional, until I select any content. Then I get that “Video Not Available” everyone else here mentioned. We loved Ted Lasso season one, and the Morning show, and some other stuff, but now ???????? I have tried all the steps and suggestions, multiple times each, all for naught. The kick is paying for a service that doesn’t do what it is advertised to do, no matter what I try. No way to get all my wasted time back (2full days maybe) At least I know I’m not alone. Thanks for this forum!
Just wanted to add that we’re having these exact problems at the end of August 2021 as well. Not sure if y’all are in America or Canada (where we are). Did everything suggested and it’s just not recognizing a subscription at all when we try to watch epi 3 of Ted Lasso, despite literally just watching epi 2. Very discouraging.
So so frustrating with Apple TV. Downloaded to watch Ted Lasso only, but it doesn’t work. I’ve tried all your ways and still nothing. And my internet is PERFECT! I have fiber optix and it’s fast as hell. All the other apps work just fine. I’m so pissed. Apple TV, why can’t you get this right. Sooo Dumb!!
I tried the fixes. They didn’t work. I have a current apple + subscription, but I can’t watch a couple of shows through my ROKU device. The shows I want to watch are Schmigadoon and Ted Lasso. I keep getting the message, “Video not Available. There’s a problem loading this video. If this continues, check your internet connection.”
I assure you, there is nothing wrong with my internet connection. Every other streaming service I have works perfectly. AND some things on Apple + work perfectly…movies, for instance, but these ‘TV Shows’ will not work!
Now, here’s something odd, I can stream these two shows on my iPad, but they just won’t play on my TV when using my ROKU.
Downloaded AppleTV+ last week. I have easily watched the first 2 episodes of The Morning Show via the pass. -> Roku. I cannot watch Episode 3. I have reset the app…I can watch episode 3 on my phone, just not the TV.
I can also watch other shows on AppleTV+with no problem.
Well, I always thought Apple was a pile of crap … now, I know it. Same problems as all the others. Except mine worked fine for a few weeks … then the crazy message about not being available or check your internet connection. MY CONNECTION is FINE. EVERYTHING ELSE WORKS GREAT. Just not [email protected]#$%^& Apple TV!
I’m having the problem that I can start watching a show, but if I stop for the night or to watch something else, then it stops working unless it’s a new show that I’ve not started. I restarted my internet, reset the roku, updated the system, deleted the app & downloaded again even tried the “limit playback to SD” as someone else suggested but I still can’t get it to work!! Very annoying
Everything on my roku works EXCEPT Apple+! It only works on my phone and then I have to cast it to the TV. When I try to click on a movie, etc on the TV, it says that it can’t play. NOT IMPRESSED!
I’ve tried everything you have suggested but cannot get Apple TV to work with my Roku 2. If I can’t figure it out soon, I’m going to have to cancel service. Any more suggestions? The Roku does not have Apple TV +…..just Apple TV. THANK YOU!
I’ve been dealing with this since I got the Apple+ subscription. I even bought a bigger better Roku Ultra 9000 because I thought it was an issue with the Roku Device. I’ve been back and forth with Roku Support for over 8 months and find it funny that all other streaming services work without fail, Netflix, CBS All Access, Hulu, Disney+ etc and so on work 100% of the time but the Apple TV app continuously says, “Video Not Available. There is a problem loading this video, if this continues check your internet connection.” despite all the trouble shooting tips in this article the issue has persisted. IF Apple TV makes it past the initial buffering there MIGHT be a chance the video will play, sometimes there’s a flash of the MPAA rating, sometimes a title screen, I get my hopes up and… “Video Not Available” It’s good to know I’m not alone, it’s terrible that this is a continuing issue and nobody’s doing anything about it.
I’m experiencing precisely the same thing. I’ve gone beyond the recommendations in the article and reset my Apple TV account and reworked settings in the account thinking it could have been the account itself that was screwing up the Roku playback. Nothing has helped, and it all started right after I upgraded to the Family plan with Apple One, which is now not a good deal, but a raw deal.
I think people are getting around this issue for now by changing the setting in the Apple TV app to limit playback to SD quality. I recommend doing this until they get the problem worked out.
Trying to watch apple tv plus on roku and never works. I have also the bundle with cbs and showtime and the same. It all say VIDEO UNAVAILABLE. I tried it on my android phone to watch and it works. So something that apple tv and roku is not working at all. Please fix.
AppleTV worked for 3-4 months on our Roku player. Recently it says “Episode Not Available” followed by “This episode isn’t available to watch in the country or region you’re currently in”. We’re still in the USA. I spent an hour on the phone with Apple last night to eventually be told by a supervisor that I should contact Roku. I expected better from Apple. I can read on the internet others are having this problem, and yet they had no solution. Please help.
The Roku isn’t the problem other than no way to talk to a person. It’s the ApleTV app as all apps on and that have been added to the Roku work just fine, EXCEPT the app. Hope the troubleshooting above was going to be the answer as I’ve tried so many “fixes” proposed by experts etc., and Dickson remains unavailable, yet the other shows are easily loaded and watched. Won’t buy from or recommend either company/device/app til they get smart and fix this.
Horrible ! I have tried all of this and I can’t watch the morning show on my roku. I can watch everything else but, that and it works fine on my phone. I’ve tried to contact Apple and roku and nothing
Allll I want to do is watch one show on Appletv and allll I get is a friggin headache !!, First all it keeps saying is VIDEO UNAVAILABLE RIGHT NOW , TRY AGAIN LATER OR CHECK INTERNET SPEED ! So I try to cast it to the ROKU from my iPad and that told me to kick rocks to ! I TRIED ALLL THESE STEPS AND NOTHING WORKED ! I even rearranged part of living room to get internet closer to tv and that didn’t work either !
Same issues here with AppleTV and Roku Premier. Tried starting the movie on my iphone for about 30 secs, then closed it and started it on the Roku. OMG it worked. Ridiculous but hey what do you want when it was free. Won’t renew unless this issue is resolved.
I tried resetting my roku. I’ve tried uninstalling and install again. I get, “video not available” check my internet connection. My internet works on all the other apps, but the apple tv plus. Please fix it. This really sucks.
Apple plus is the worst streaming service. Screen freeze, crashes, and spinning wheel of death.
Apple TV PLUS has never worked consistently. Netflix, Prime, Disney, CBS all work consistently, with very few problems or issues, Apple plus TV has been horrible at best. I’ve tried so many times to watch anything on Apple + the time I’ve been typing this Am getting the spinning wheel of nothing, reset doesn’t work unplugging it doesn’t work deleting and reinstalling doesn’t work, I have a GB a second Internet speed.
This is Apple TV+ issues, not mine. Every thing else I do on the internet works grest, apple doesn’t and never has.
I recently bought a new iphone and it kept bugging me to try Apple+ tv free for a year.
I’ve been trying for about a month content aside this is the absolute worst streaming service, and its not even close.
Despite having a roku that is a model supposedly supported, the apple App fails to load, it aborts after 100 pct loaded so cant even setup an acct etc…Apple blew it.
Proper roku model, supposed supported Roku Express+ 3910x,
App installed.. loads then at 100 pct aborts.
Apple did not put out a working App or else actualy doesnt wprk with model they claim should.. Apple: F+
AppleTV works on my Roku Stick, but will not work on my Roku3 model 4230x. Video won’t load error. I have tried all suggestions in this article and it still fails. Everything else works on Roku3 except AppleTV. Horrible experience.
I just resubsribed to AppleTVPlus assuming they would have resolved the issue with Roku at some point over the past year. Nope. I still can’t sign into AppleTVplus on Roku. And each still blames the other for the issue. Ridiculous.
I bought a new Roku TV and it will not acknowledge my Apple ID when I try and sign on. I have tried all of the directions above and it still will not work. What can I do?
Help please.
Apple TV app was working just fine over the past 10 months in my roku until today. I’ve been trying for hours to get it to work. I’ve tried installing uninstalling restarting and all it does is act like it’s loading, gets to 100% then nothing back to the roku app menu. Of course it’s in the middle of a free trial of AMC+ that I need to cancel and Apple is supposed to renew next month but I don’t think I will be renewing now. There is hardly a reason to pay for it already. There are a few originals I liked such as “See” but other than that I can pay to get these movies or other subscriptions on almost any other platform ( besides the apple originals) Apple needs more content. I don’t even use an apple device at all; not the Tv not a phone not a Mac nor an iPad. So I suppose I’ll need to spend hours on the phone tomorrow to get my subscription cancelled. This is really annoying. I was already contemplating weather to renew but this has me over the top irritated and so..my mind is made up now
From the posts, appears that this is an ongoing problem since December 2019.
Roku and Apple have to sort this out by release of a report on this problem and what or how it will be resolved.
For me, I obtained a 1 year free subscription to AppleTV with purchase of a iphone.
Download app on iphone and computer, and no problem to view free movies. However, on installing AppleTV app to my TV with the Roku 3 device, can only view Oprah Conversation with no issues on video and audio. However, there is no video and audio, except subtitle on all other content.
Contacted Apple Support and after 3 weeks they are not able to resolve the issues, except to suggest contacting Roku as it is not a Apple product. However, on their support page, Roku 3 (Model 4200CA) is an approved device to access the Apple TV app.
Would be great if Roku and Apple can comment on this issue as it is happening to so many of us using the Roku device to download the Apple TV App. Let us know whether it is the device, setting or what is the problem, rather than a blame-game on who is responsible.
I have a Roku 2 in my bedroom and a Roku 3 in the living room. They both have the same problem with the Apple TV app. They work fine for awhile then they freeze. I have tried all the tricks listed above but nothing helps.
Trying my free Apple TV+ subscription. My Samsung smart tv is over 5 years old and it does not have the Apple app. However, I tried using the TV browser and going to Apple TV+ and signing in but the screen does not progress out of the sign in one. Thus, I can’t watch it in that unit.
I have also a Sharp Roku Tv–again no App available. Tried mirroring screen from my iPad to the tv and it works. I am able to see and sign on to AppleTV+ but when I try to watch a show, it tells me that the contents are protected and cannot be mirrored (even though I have the subscription).
Any comments or ideas? If no solution, I will have to opt out of Apple TV+
Thanks
Apple TV Plus on Roku is absolute garbage! It worked for one day and hasn’t worked since. I’ve reset my password for my Apple ID five times. I have uninstalled the app on the Roku 3 times, I have cleared my cache. I spent 48 minutes on the phone with Apple support and his best advice after doing everything that I had already done several times was to “give it a day”. Apple TV on a Roku sucks. Stop advertising crap and getting us to waste our time and money on something that doesn’t work. I am now going to have to get a hold of apple and make sure that I don’t get charged for this horrible experience. Everything else works just fine on my Roku.
Yeah, what Michelle says. I did everything they ask and the video streamed. I came back to finish watching the same show and the same errors occur again. Waste of time!
Dissapointed ,,,Watching Greayhound on Apple app using roku. Movie/sound kept stopping. I’m really disappointed now do not recommend does anybody know how to fix this
I have been working on this for 2 HOURS..the code is invalid..WHAT? The code I got from apple is invalid on the rook…it will not work!! I can watch on my apple monitor but not on my tv??? This sucks big time. Went all over google trying to fix this..it’s either password/id incorrect (it’s not..went to apples to check) or sign in with mobile..code invalid!!!!! Since when did Apple get so bad???
I’ve attempted all the options on this page to alleviate my issue. None were successful. Everything works fine on my iPhone but not on the Roku. When I first installed this app it did indeed work on the Roku. I’ll keep surfing the web for additional remedies but I’d like to hear what you’d recommend.
Thank you.
Apple TV is the only app I have trouble with on my Roku. It works SOME times, but more often than not, I get a message that “this video is not available at this time. Try Later” It is REALLY irritating. I don’t especially like having to watch it on my iPad mini. I was excited to get a year free, but sure wouldn’t PAY for it after this experience.!
Free Apple TV for 1 year. It will probably take them that long to fix the issues of “video not available”. It is an Apple App issue and only appears on certain hardware, mainly Roku Streaming Stick.
I can’t sign-in with my Apple ID no matter how many times I have restarted, removed and reinstalled the App. It’s pathetic that Apple gets away withis crap!
I”m having the same issue. New Roku TV and also recently signed up for free Apple TV+ subscription. Now I bought a tv episode and it keeps stopping after 30 seconds and saying “Video Unavailable”. I tried other shows I bought years ago and same thing, Deleted and installed the app and has not fixed it.
I followed your instructions, but it does not solve my problem. I have a Roku 3 4200X, which is listed in the supported devices table. The first time I played a show, it started. But no matter if I resume, or pick a different movie, I get the “Video not available message”. Looks like their plan of offering a one year free subscription will not be getting any subscribers with Roku!
I’ve tried everything you’ve mentioned and still cannot get movies/shows to stream On the app. What do I do? I can sign in and see my old purchases but can’t play any tv shows. I get the “this content is not available right. Try again later.” Error.
We have heard from several readers regarding similar problems–first, try logging out of Apple TV+ and then logging back in. Once logged back in, on your Roku go to Settings > Network . Check Connection.
Though not ideal, once trick that seems to work is to start playing that second episode (or any episode showing video unavailable) on an Apple device (like your iPhone/iPad) using the Apple TV app, let it play for 30 seconds and then pause it and then try to play it from your Roku.
Also, since you signed up and paid for a subscription to Apple TV+, we definitely recommend contacting Apple to complain and ask them to refund you for the portion of the month that your service was not working!
Thank you for the advice, but none of it has worked for me. My software is up to date, but I cannot sign in. After I put in the correct username and password it just stays “signing in” for ever with a circle of death.
Any suggestions?
I’m also having the issue on my Roku TV where purchased movies I am watching keep having the Video Unavailable error randomly and continuously throughout. It is very annoying and I have tried all these “fixes” to no avail as well as resetting router. No other channels/apps have this issue and I have no issues with my movies on my Apple TV in another room or IPad. It seems like Roku thinks it an Apple problem and Apple thinks it a Roku problem. What can we do to get this mess fixed?
I’ve not been able to watch ANYTHING on my Apple TV app for roku. I’ve restarted roku several times. I’ve uninstalled Apple TV app and reinstalled. Nothing works. A movie will start and suddenly stop 5-10 secs in and suddenly “unavailable”. I have. Roku3 so I know my system is compatible. I signed through my Apple TV app on my iPhone 11.
Clearly an Apple TV problem. Is there a fix? I’d rather not watch on my ph…yes the app works just fine on my phone.
Are you connecting via WiFi or Ethernet. If ethernet is an option, try using that instead of wireless.
Delete the Apple TV app, unplug the HDMI cable from both the Roku and your TV, and then check for a Roku software update. If one is available, update your Roku. If it’s already on the latest update, continue to the next steps.
Once updated to the latest Roku software, plug the HDMI cable into the Roku first and then into the TV (if possible use a DIFFERENT HDMI port on your TV than previously), then download and install the Apple TV app again.
Hi Elizabeth. I did all of those steps before posting here. Inclusive of restarting the router/modem. I can’t hardwire in as I’m in a roommate situation. Router is in common space.
I called Apple TV support, their IG putting it all on roku citing there’s nothing wrong the app.
I have a Roku Ultra (supported device) and recently started experiencing the “this video is not available at this time” errors, in the middle of watching a movie; it just suddenly quits. Uninstall/reinstall has fixed it but the app has become clunky in operation.
Also, I purchased STARZ through the app and later discovered there is no Dolby digital output, only stereo, even when the movie slate clearly says “Dolby 5.1.” That’s a major oversight for Apple and a mistake I wish I’d noticed before the trial period ended.
First, we assume your Roku Express is a supported model–that includes Roku Express 3900X, 3930X and Roku Express+ 3910X, 3931X.
If you use one of these models, first try updating your Roku firmware. If it’s up-to-date, one tip that often works is to start watching the episode on your iPhone past the recap and a but into the intro of the show. Then on your iPhone, pause the show, and try then to stream it on the Roku.
I have difficulty every time I log in to watch on my Roku. I continually receive the message that the video isn’t available; try again.
I have received this message while halfway through a program.
Despite restarting Roku & deleting and adding the app and following other recommendations, this occurs ever time. I have an excellent wireless connection.
I should not have to resort to watching on a small iPhone!! It works on my iPhone. Apple needs to work out the bugs that are causing this problem.
I was able to get Apple TV on my roku stick I have plugged into my tv in my living room. However, it’s not working on my Roku Tv I have in my bedroom. If I can’t get it to work there, I won’t sign up for Apple TV, which is a disappointment because it looks like they have good shows. Usually when I download a chanel on one device, it will be there on all my devices, so I’m not sure why that’s not the case for Apple TV. It doesn’t even come up under search on my Sharp Roku tv.
I have a Roku tv, it goes to a message to try again when I try to sign in on the mobile device and when I enter my Apple ID and password in the app on the tv it just keeps saying signing in until I have to exit it due to never connecting.
I followed your directions and rebooted Roku tv and uninstalled and reinstalled the Apple app but it continues to not work.
I have a Roku tv that does not have an SD slot yet I cannot sign in to Apple TV app.
It goes to a message to try again when I try to sign in on the mobile device and when I enter my Apple ID and password in the app on the tv it just keeps saying signing in until I have to exit it due to never connecting.
I followed your directions and rebooted Roku tv and uninstalled and reinstalled the Apple app but it continues to not work.
The Apple TV app works on my phone and my computer but will not sign in on my 49” TCL Roku tv. Very frustrating.
As of 2 days ago, the Apple TV channel stopped loading on my Roku Express+. Up until then it was working great. Now it starts to load then goes back to the Roku menu, I’ve uninstalled, reinstalled, cleared cache, everything. Nothing works, very frustrated.
Video not available error repeatedly and not fixable. First an unending loop of login problems. No QR or other code appeared in order to activate it on Roku TV. it is just an unending nightmare of refusing to work even after installing, reinstalling, playing a preview momentarily and then completely refusing to play shows / subscribed content. NONE of the so-called fixes offered by roku or apple community members have worked.
Neither Apple nor Roku has a solution because they blame it on each other and NEITHER TECH GIANT who could not care less about customers who and have done nothing to resolve this multi-year long bug. sending back the ROKU TV & CANCELLING APPLE TV. That is the only way they will listen to customers.
I’ve had the same problem so many people are naming where AppleTV+ randomly won’t play certain episodes. I’ve been looking for a fix for years and I finally just found a tip on Reddit that worked!
Go to the Roku Settings > Audio > Streaming Audio Format and Digital Output Format — and change both of these audio settings from auto to be Dolby Digital.
I went back to the episode it wouldn’t play before and it immediately worked! Other times when it’s locked me out from an episode I’ve just given up and watched it on my computer or iPad, because the issue never went away. So, fingers crossed this fix takes care of it for good!
My two Roku players as well as the Samsung Smart TV app have the same problem. None of them recognize that I share in a Family Plan organized by my sister. Keep prompting me to accept a trial offer to watch Apple+. I did all the troubleshooting you identified, plus more, btw. All device models are compatible.
To watch Apple+ content on a TV, I have to use AirPlay streamed from my IPad. Can’t find a fix in any of the support sites online. Others are reporting the same problem. Suggestions welcome.
Thank you so much for this! Restarting the Roku fixed the Apple TV app for me. I was not able to see the menu bar on the Apple TV app. Also, Apple TV was zoomed in. Another forum said to change the from 720 to 1080, and that fixed the zoomed in problem, bur restarting the Roku fixed the menu bar problem. Thanks for taking the time to write this. Very helpful!
Despite the extensive article, I still can’t get Apple on my Roku. I bought a new Roku to specifically support Apple and it worked for a couple of days. When I go onto the website on my phone it says Apple TV is there, but it does not show up on my screen. I’ve reset I’ve done everything. The Roku tab is literally on my Roku remote. So I can’t even uninstall it from my TV because the icon won’t show up on my TV at all. Meanwhile I can watch it on my iPad and on my phone thank you
I have a hisense tv with a roku hooked up. I have netflix, prime,hulu, hbo,starz,disney, as well as other free channels loaded. content on all these sevices works without a problem. Noe apple tv lets me watch some series but not others. If i stop in middle of series i get content not available check internet connection. I performed all steps, restarts, ect. to no avail. I then thought watch on my pc as alternative, I cant get past sign in page where a free trial is offered over and over after explaining im an existing customer and im done. What form of streaming hell is this. when i called for assistance at apple i was transfered to 4 technicians, none of whom helped, Do you really want customers apple ? Im about ready to part ways and get refund as im not a masochist. This is not entertaining
People on the Roku channel have been reporting problems with the AppleTV+ app literally for years. None of the suggestions in this article get to the most annoying issue, which is that 4k just doesn’t work properly. There are all sorts of glitches primarily with video and sound that make AppleTV+ on the Roku unusable. Just for the record I have a fully HDMI 2.1/HDCP 2.3 compliant Denon AVR S760H 7.2ch 8K AV receiver that I spent considerable time researching prior to purchase, which I have hooked up to an LG Oled.
Some people have reported that if they reconfigure the roku app so that it drops everything down to SD, then these issues go away, but let’s just look at the evidence for a second.
Roku Apps I’ve personally used that have 4k content and work perfectly on my 2020 Roku Ultra w/4k include: Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, and Starz. The only app that has these issues is AppleTV+ in 4k.
So what you get is a finger pointing exercise between Roku who says: “contact apple” and from the Apple side — well they offer no support or contact for their Roku app. It really feels like Apple specifically doesn’t want to even be on Roku, and doesn’t care that their app is buggy on Roku. Meanwhile, the AppleTV app for the LG works fine on the TV’s WebOS! There is no way that this many people have issues with the app, and AppleTV doesn’t know about this. If they didn’t have their own competitive hardware, I would be less suspicious of their motives, but it really does feel deliberate, or some codec based bug that nobody at apple is interested or willing to debug and fix.
I cannot watch ANY series after the first one, nor return a few days later to a movie I was previously watching, without receiving an error message that says “video not available – check Internet connection. My Roku is connected directly via Eithernet cable to the router, there is no Internet connection issue. Furthermore my Roku doesn’t have an SD card. I’ve done all suggestions that Apple & Roku websites have given, about rebooting device, delete and reinstall the APP, etc. but nothing works. Very frustrating, and it will eventually mean I will cancel my Apple TV subscription.
My Apple TV+ works on my Roku, except after watching one episode of the new series Slow Horses, when I try to watch the second episode I get Video Not Available – There’s a problem loading this video. If this continues, check your internet connection. Everything else comes on just fine.
I’m unable to install Apple TV app on my Hitachi Roku tv. It acts as if it is installing with the spinning circle, however it never finishes. Please help
Can’t watch “the morning show” on Apple. Let me watch 4 episodes and then message “problems with loading video” comes on. Checked internet connection, tried the pressing home 5x…. and uninstalled and reinstalled apple+ Extremely frustrated!
Same thing happened with “We crashes”.
$$ back?
It works BUT… the resolution is not up to par. I am using a Roku that is on the compatibility list and a 48″ LG C1 OLED 4K TV. When played in this configuration, there is significant banding in gradations when using the Apple TV app on Roku that is not present when using the Apple TV app installed directly on the LG TV. My first thought was this is an issue between the Roku and the LG TV, but there is no banding seen in other apps like Netflix when their content is played through the Roku. Still trying to figure this out…
Continue to have problems ONLY with Apple TV on Roku Soundbar. Have removed the app, cleared the cache, checked the cables, updates etc & the problem persists. Infuriating!!!
Hi, thanks for all this info. I’m curious if anyone has run into the inability to access certain shows on Apple TV. We just purchased it and can open the app but when we try to watch Ted Lasso, it says it’s unavailable. We have tried removing the app from our Roku device and that didn’t work. TIA!
I just signed up for AppleTV+ and I get the video cannot play error on a Roku 4230. I’ve tried all of the band aide fixes with no success. Disney, Netflix, Amazon, YouTube, Plex, and other lesser known services all work fine. I have Gb internet and using the Roku 4230 RJ45 connection – it is NOT an internet connection or bandwidth issue. Apple: This is NOT a Roku problem. You wrote this app and it is an Apple software problem that needs to be fixed if you want people to continue subscribing to the service. Additionally the Apple TV android app is similarly buggy. Get your house in order and quit fingering pointing.
Still can’t get it to work with my roku 4200x. Its up to date for updates. My laptop on the same wireless works just fine but on the roku gets the Video Cannot Play error. About to cancel the apple account.
I have an LG TV and installed the Apple+ app however I cannot get anything to work. I cannot sign in or click on anything that works on the Apple+ page.
IT WORKED! thanks so much!!
Cannot access the Video The Morning Show or Ted Lasso on my Roku yet the Rose Byrne video explaining how she likes Apple TV in the Wilderness plays fine. Makes no sense to me. I keep getting Video cannot play error. I’ve tried everything and was on the phone with Roku for over an hour and they couldn’t get it to play. Why can I play the Rose Byrne video but not the shows I want?
Same issue here. Ted Lasso works but not The Morning Show.
It would be nice if anyone has an idea of what that could be. A mystery!
Apple TV won’t even open with my Roku. Also have top notch WiFi(fiber) and no issues with any other channel. I’ll get the loading symbol, twice, and then nothing. Ridiculous. Can’t wait to finally hear from Roku/Apple on what the problem is and getting it fixed.
Sigh. Followed all the steps and still cannot get AppleTV + on my Toshiba TV via my ROKU. Any additional ideas? Thanks.
Apple TV worked fine through Roku Premiere (which I purchased specifically for Apple TV) for months until we moved the TV. After several frustrating hours I broke down and purchased a new wifi node for our mesh system, thinking the extra 8 feet were the problem. Nope. More frustrating hours, in addition to the extra $$ spent. Apple is NO help. And Roku doesn’t seem to have any customer service whatsoever. All other services work fine. The Apple App is there and seems to be functional, until I select any content. Then I get that “Video Not Available” everyone else here mentioned. We loved Ted Lasso season one, and the Morning show, and some other stuff, but now ???????? I have tried all the steps and suggestions, multiple times each, all for naught. The kick is paying for a service that doesn’t do what it is advertised to do, no matter what I try. No way to get all my wasted time back (2full days maybe) At least I know I’m not alone. Thanks for this forum!
Just wanted to add that we’re having these exact problems at the end of August 2021 as well. Not sure if y’all are in America or Canada (where we are). Did everything suggested and it’s just not recognizing a subscription at all when we try to watch epi 3 of Ted Lasso, despite literally just watching epi 2. Very discouraging.
So so frustrating with Apple TV. Downloaded to watch Ted Lasso only, but it doesn’t work. I’ve tried all your ways and still nothing. And my internet is PERFECT! I have fiber optix and it’s fast as hell. All the other apps work just fine. I’m so pissed. Apple TV, why can’t you get this right. Sooo Dumb!!
I tried the fixes. They didn’t work. I have a current apple + subscription, but I can’t watch a couple of shows through my ROKU device. The shows I want to watch are Schmigadoon and Ted Lasso. I keep getting the message, “Video not Available. There’s a problem loading this video. If this continues, check your internet connection.”
I assure you, there is nothing wrong with my internet connection. Every other streaming service I have works perfectly. AND some things on Apple + work perfectly…movies, for instance, but these ‘TV Shows’ will not work!
Now, here’s something odd, I can stream these two shows on my iPad, but they just won’t play on my TV when using my ROKU.
Same problem! Works on other devices in my house but not on my main tv. I keep getting that message you got. So frustrating!
Downloaded AppleTV+ last week. I have easily watched the first 2 episodes of The Morning Show via the pass. -> Roku. I cannot watch Episode 3. I have reset the app…I can watch episode 3 on my phone, just not the TV.
I can also watch other shows on AppleTV+with no problem.
THANK YOU!!! Starting the movie on my iPad, pausing it and then resuming using Roku on my TV worked!!!! Seriously, thank you so much.
Apple TV does Not work with roku. Please let us know I when you have finally figured it out. So frustrating!
Well, I always thought Apple was a pile of crap … now, I know it. Same problems as all the others. Except mine worked fine for a few weeks … then the crazy message about not being available or check your internet connection. MY CONNECTION is FINE. EVERYTHING ELSE WORKS GREAT. Just not [email protected]#$%^& Apple TV!
I cleared my cache and reinstalled the Apple TV App and we still get a black screen with sound after a dew seconds of watching a show.
I’m having the problem that I can start watching a show, but if I stop for the night or to watch something else, then it stops working unless it’s a new show that I’ve not started. I restarted my internet, reset the roku, updated the system, deleted the app & downloaded again even tried the “limit playback to SD” as someone else suggested but I still can’t get it to work!! Very annoying
Everything on my roku works EXCEPT Apple+! It only works on my phone and then I have to cast it to the TV. When I try to click on a movie, etc on the TV, it says that it can’t play. NOT IMPRESSED!
I’ve tried everything you have suggested but cannot get Apple TV to work with my Roku 2. If I can’t figure it out soon, I’m going to have to cancel service. Any more suggestions? The Roku does not have Apple TV +…..just Apple TV. THANK YOU!
I’ve been dealing with this since I got the Apple+ subscription. I even bought a bigger better Roku Ultra 9000 because I thought it was an issue with the Roku Device. I’ve been back and forth with Roku Support for over 8 months and find it funny that all other streaming services work without fail, Netflix, CBS All Access, Hulu, Disney+ etc and so on work 100% of the time but the Apple TV app continuously says, “Video Not Available. There is a problem loading this video, if this continues check your internet connection.” despite all the trouble shooting tips in this article the issue has persisted. IF Apple TV makes it past the initial buffering there MIGHT be a chance the video will play, sometimes there’s a flash of the MPAA rating, sometimes a title screen, I get my hopes up and… “Video Not Available” It’s good to know I’m not alone, it’s terrible that this is a continuing issue and nobody’s doing anything about it.
I’m experiencing precisely the same thing. I’ve gone beyond the recommendations in the article and reset my Apple TV account and reworked settings in the account thinking it could have been the account itself that was screwing up the Roku playback. Nothing has helped, and it all started right after I upgraded to the Family plan with Apple One, which is now not a good deal, but a raw deal.
Phil,
I have EXACTLY the same issue! I’m more than frustrated with this.
I think people are getting around this issue for now by changing the setting in the Apple TV app to limit playback to SD quality. I recommend doing this until they get the problem worked out.
That didn’t work for me
Trying to watch apple tv plus on roku and never works. I have also the bundle with cbs and showtime and the same. It all say VIDEO UNAVAILABLE. I tried it on my android phone to watch and it works. So something that apple tv and roku is not working at all. Please fix.
AppleTV worked for 3-4 months on our Roku player. Recently it says “Episode Not Available” followed by “This episode isn’t available to watch in the country or region you’re currently in”. We’re still in the USA. I spent an hour on the phone with Apple last night to eventually be told by a supervisor that I should contact Roku. I expected better from Apple. I can read on the internet others are having this problem, and yet they had no solution. Please help.
The Roku isn’t the problem other than no way to talk to a person. It’s the ApleTV app as all apps on and that have been added to the Roku work just fine, EXCEPT the app. Hope the troubleshooting above was going to be the answer as I’ve tried so many “fixes” proposed by experts etc., and Dickson remains unavailable, yet the other shows are easily loaded and watched. Won’t buy from or recommend either company/device/app til they get smart and fix this.
Horrible ! I have tried all of this and I can’t watch the morning show on my roku. I can watch everything else but, that and it works fine on my phone. I’ve tried to contact Apple and roku and nothing
Allll I want to do is watch one show on Appletv and allll I get is a friggin headache !!, First all it keeps saying is VIDEO UNAVAILABLE RIGHT NOW , TRY AGAIN LATER OR CHECK INTERNET SPEED ! So I try to cast it to the ROKU from my iPad and that told me to kick rocks to ! I TRIED ALLL THESE STEPS AND NOTHING WORKED ! I even rearranged part of living room to get internet closer to tv and that didn’t work either !
Same issues here with AppleTV and Roku Premier. Tried starting the movie on my iphone for about 30 secs, then closed it and started it on the Roku. OMG it worked. Ridiculous but hey what do you want when it was free. Won’t renew unless this issue is resolved.
I tried resetting my roku. I’ve tried uninstalling and install again. I get, “video not available” check my internet connection. My internet works on all the other apps, but the apple tv plus. Please fix it. This really sucks.
Apple plus is the worst streaming service. Screen freeze, crashes, and spinning wheel of death.
Apple TV PLUS has never worked consistently. Netflix, Prime, Disney, CBS all work consistently, with very few problems or issues, Apple plus TV has been horrible at best. I’ve tried so many times to watch anything on Apple + the time I’ve been typing this Am getting the spinning wheel of nothing, reset doesn’t work unplugging it doesn’t work deleting and reinstalling doesn’t work, I have a GB a second Internet speed.
This is Apple TV+ issues, not mine. Every thing else I do on the internet works grest, apple doesn’t and never has.
I recently bought a new iphone and it kept bugging me to try Apple+ tv free for a year.
I’ve been trying for about a month content aside this is the absolute worst streaming service, and its not even close.
Despite having a roku that is a model supposedly supported, the apple App fails to load, it aborts after 100 pct loaded so cant even setup an acct etc…Apple blew it.
Proper roku model, supposed supported Roku Express+ 3910x,
App installed.. loads then at 100 pct aborts.
Apple did not put out a working App or else actualy doesnt wprk with model they claim should.. Apple: F+
AppleTV works on my Roku Stick, but will not work on my Roku3 model 4230x. Video won’t load error. I have tried all suggestions in this article and it still fails. Everything else works on Roku3 except AppleTV. Horrible experience.
I just resubsribed to AppleTVPlus assuming they would have resolved the issue with Roku at some point over the past year. Nope. I still can’t sign into AppleTVplus on Roku. And each still blames the other for the issue. Ridiculous.
Apple tv wont install on my tv bo matter what i try
I bought a new Roku TV and it will not acknowledge my Apple ID when I try and sign on. I have tried all of the directions above and it still will not work. What can I do?
Help please.
Apple TV app was working just fine over the past 10 months in my roku until today. I’ve been trying for hours to get it to work. I’ve tried installing uninstalling restarting and all it does is act like it’s loading, gets to 100% then nothing back to the roku app menu. Of course it’s in the middle of a free trial of AMC+ that I need to cancel and Apple is supposed to renew next month but I don’t think I will be renewing now. There is hardly a reason to pay for it already. There are a few originals I liked such as “See” but other than that I can pay to get these movies or other subscriptions on almost any other platform ( besides the apple originals) Apple needs more content. I don’t even use an apple device at all; not the Tv not a phone not a Mac nor an iPad. So I suppose I’ll need to spend hours on the phone tomorrow to get my subscription cancelled. This is really annoying. I was already contemplating weather to renew but this has me over the top irritated and so..my mind is made up now
From the posts, appears that this is an ongoing problem since December 2019.
Roku and Apple have to sort this out by release of a report on this problem and what or how it will be resolved.
For me, I obtained a 1 year free subscription to AppleTV with purchase of a iphone.
Download app on iphone and computer, and no problem to view free movies. However, on installing AppleTV app to my TV with the Roku 3 device, can only view Oprah Conversation with no issues on video and audio. However, there is no video and audio, except subtitle on all other content.
Contacted Apple Support and after 3 weeks they are not able to resolve the issues, except to suggest contacting Roku as it is not a Apple product. However, on their support page, Roku 3 (Model 4200CA) is an approved device to access the Apple TV app.
Would be great if Roku and Apple can comment on this issue as it is happening to so many of us using the Roku device to download the Apple TV App. Let us know whether it is the device, setting or what is the problem, rather than a blame-game on who is responsible.
I have a Roku 2 in my bedroom and a Roku 3 in the living room. They both have the same problem with the Apple TV app. They work fine for awhile then they freeze. I have tried all the tricks listed above but nothing helps.
Trying my free Apple TV+ subscription. My Samsung smart tv is over 5 years old and it does not have the Apple app. However, I tried using the TV browser and going to Apple TV+ and signing in but the screen does not progress out of the sign in one. Thus, I can’t watch it in that unit.
I have also a Sharp Roku Tv–again no App available. Tried mirroring screen from my iPad to the tv and it works. I am able to see and sign on to AppleTV+ but when I try to watch a show, it tells me that the contents are protected and cannot be mirrored (even though I have the subscription).
Any comments or ideas? If no solution, I will have to opt out of Apple TV+
Thanks
Apple TV Plus on Roku is absolute garbage! It worked for one day and hasn’t worked since. I’ve reset my password for my Apple ID five times. I have uninstalled the app on the Roku 3 times, I have cleared my cache. I spent 48 minutes on the phone with Apple support and his best advice after doing everything that I had already done several times was to “give it a day”. Apple TV on a Roku sucks. Stop advertising crap and getting us to waste our time and money on something that doesn’t work. I am now going to have to get a hold of apple and make sure that I don’t get charged for this horrible experience. Everything else works just fine on my Roku.
Yeah, what Michelle says. I did everything they ask and the video streamed. I came back to finish watching the same show and the same errors occur again. Waste of time!
My Apple Tv seems to be working till I press play I only get a black screen whats up with that? I have reloaded Apple Tv and restarted my roku.
Dissapointed ,,,Watching Greayhound on Apple app using roku. Movie/sound kept stopping. I’m really disappointed now do not recommend does anybody know how to fix this
I have been working on this for 2 HOURS..the code is invalid..WHAT? The code I got from apple is invalid on the rook…it will not work!! I can watch on my apple monitor but not on my tv??? This sucks big time. Went all over google trying to fix this..it’s either password/id incorrect (it’s not..went to apples to check) or sign in with mobile..code invalid!!!!! Since when did Apple get so bad???
I’ve attempted all the options on this page to alleviate my issue. None were successful. Everything works fine on my iPhone but not on the Roku. When I first installed this app it did indeed work on the Roku. I’ll keep surfing the web for additional remedies but I’d like to hear what you’d recommend.
Thank you.
Apple TV is the only app I have trouble with on my Roku. It works SOME times, but more often than not, I get a message that “this video is not available at this time. Try Later” It is REALLY irritating. I don’t especially like having to watch it on my iPad mini. I was excited to get a year free, but sure wouldn’t PAY for it after this experience.!
Free Apple TV for 1 year. It will probably take them that long to fix the issues of “video not available”. It is an Apple App issue and only appears on certain hardware, mainly Roku Streaming Stick.
I have been having this issue a few times over the past couple of days. I can’t get anything on Apple tv. VERY frustrating.
I can’t sign-in with my Apple ID no matter how many times I have restarted, removed and reinstalled the App. It’s pathetic that Apple gets away withis crap!
I”m having the same issue. New Roku TV and also recently signed up for free Apple TV+ subscription. Now I bought a tv episode and it keeps stopping after 30 seconds and saying “Video Unavailable”. I tried other shows I bought years ago and same thing, Deleted and installed the app and has not fixed it.
I tried every single one of your troubleshooting techniques I paid for a movie and I cannot watch it via Apple TV this is unsatisfactory fix it!
I followed your instructions, but it does not solve my problem. I have a Roku 3 4200X, which is listed in the supported devices table. The first time I played a show, it started. But no matter if I resume, or pick a different movie, I get the “Video not available message”. Looks like their plan of offering a one year free subscription will not be getting any subscribers with Roku!
I’ve tried everything you’ve mentioned and still cannot get movies/shows to stream On the app. What do I do? I can sign in and see my old purchases but can’t play any tv shows. I get the “this content is not available right. Try again later.” Error.
Hello, we have recently purchased Apple TV for our Roku.
There are issues with the streaming service.
When we try to watch a series, it will play the first episode, but whenever it moves to the next episode, it will say “video unavailable”.
We have tried restarting our Appletv subscription and restarting our Roku.
Nothing has worked! Some feedback and help would be thoroughly appreciated.
Thank you!
Hi Jordan,
We have heard from several readers regarding similar problems–first, try logging out of Apple TV+ and then logging back in. Once logged back in, on your Roku go to Settings > Network . Check Connection.
Though not ideal, once trick that seems to work is to start playing that second episode (or any episode showing video unavailable) on an Apple device (like your iPhone/iPad) using the Apple TV app, let it play for 30 seconds and then pause it and then try to play it from your Roku.
Also, since you signed up and paid for a subscription to Apple TV+, we definitely recommend contacting Apple to complain and ask them to refund you for the portion of the month that your service was not working!
Thank you for the advice, but none of it has worked for me. My software is up to date, but I cannot sign in. After I put in the correct username and password it just stays “signing in” for ever with a circle of death.
Any suggestions?
Hi Denise,
What model Roku do you use?
I’m also having the issue on my Roku TV where purchased movies I am watching keep having the Video Unavailable error randomly and continuously throughout. It is very annoying and I have tried all these “fixes” to no avail as well as resetting router. No other channels/apps have this issue and I have no issues with my movies on my Apple TV in another room or IPad. It seems like Roku thinks it an Apple problem and Apple thinks it a Roku problem. What can we do to get this mess fixed?
Me too? Help?
I unintentionally purchased a Roku Express (2018) which has a rectangular body and a Roku Express (2019) which has a curved body.
Apple TV+ errors are consistent on the newer Express 2019 but Apple TV App works fine on Express 2018.
I had no idea these devices were different until I held them next to each other.
So I purchased another 2018 Roku Express (which for some reason costs more than 2019 model) and Apple TV+ works fine.
No idea why this worked, but, it worked for me.
I tried everything that was mentioned, but still get “Video Unavailable” When I try to play anything.
Roku3 Apple TV not working. “Unavailable” for all its videos. Nothing fixes it. A year subscription for this?
No posts from Apple that they are working to resolve or a fix that actually works.
Anybody get it to work?
I’ve not been able to watch ANYTHING on my Apple TV app for roku. I’ve restarted roku several times. I’ve uninstalled Apple TV app and reinstalled. Nothing works. A movie will start and suddenly stop 5-10 secs in and suddenly “unavailable”. I have. Roku3 so I know my system is compatible. I signed through my Apple TV app on my iPhone 11.
Clearly an Apple TV problem. Is there a fix? I’d rather not watch on my ph…yes the app works just fine on my phone.
Hi Deanna,
Are you connecting via WiFi or Ethernet. If ethernet is an option, try using that instead of wireless.
Delete the Apple TV app, unplug the HDMI cable from both the Roku and your TV, and then check for a Roku software update. If one is available, update your Roku. If it’s already on the latest update, continue to the next steps.
Once updated to the latest Roku software, plug the HDMI cable into the Roku first and then into the TV (if possible use a DIFFERENT HDMI port on your TV than previously), then download and install the Apple TV app again.
And test to see if Apple TV now works.
Hi Elizabeth. I did all of those steps before posting here. Inclusive of restarting the router/modem. I can’t hardwire in as I’m in a roommate situation. Router is in common space.
I called Apple TV support, their IG putting it all on roku citing there’s nothing wrong the app.
Edit: I called Apple Support, they’re putting it all on Roku, citing there’s nothing wrong with the Apple TV app for Roku.
I have a Roku Ultra (supported device) and recently started experiencing the “this video is not available at this time” errors, in the middle of watching a movie; it just suddenly quits. Uninstall/reinstall has fixed it but the app has become clunky in operation.
Also, I purchased STARZ through the app and later discovered there is no Dolby digital output, only stereo, even when the movie slate clearly says “Dolby 5.1.” That’s a major oversight for Apple and a mistake I wish I’d noticed before the trial period ended.
When I can manage to get something to play, it stops in the middle as well. Apple keeps saying it’s Roku issue not theirs.
I have tried everything to get my Apple TV working on my Roku express again to no avail.
It had worked fine until about a month ago and now all I get is Video unavailable to watch.
But I can watch the first episodes of the HBO series there! What is going on???
Anyone else having the same issue?
Hi Ericka,
First, we assume your Roku Express is a supported model–that includes Roku Express 3900X, 3930X and Roku Express+ 3910X, 3931X.
If you use one of these models, first try updating your Roku firmware. If it’s up-to-date, one tip that often works is to start watching the episode on your iPhone past the recap and a but into the intro of the show. Then on your iPhone, pause the show, and try then to stream it on the Roku.
Apple TV has fallen short.
I have difficulty every time I log in to watch on my Roku. I continually receive the message that the video isn’t available; try again.
I have received this message while halfway through a program.
Despite restarting Roku & deleting and adding the app and following other recommendations, this occurs ever time. I have an excellent wireless connection.
I should not have to resort to watching on a small iPhone!! It works on my iPhone. Apple needs to work out the bugs that are causing this problem.
I cannot get apple tv to work. I am able to get so far as to select the FREE episode of the Morning Show, but it will not play.
I was able to get Apple TV on my roku stick I have plugged into my tv in my living room. However, it’s not working on my Roku Tv I have in my bedroom. If I can’t get it to work there, I won’t sign up for Apple TV, which is a disappointment because it looks like they have good shows. Usually when I download a chanel on one device, it will be there on all my devices, so I’m not sure why that’s not the case for Apple TV. It doesn’t even come up under search on my Sharp Roku tv.
I have the same problem! come to find out the model roku tv I have is not compatible with apple tv.
Same as Robert,
I have a Roku tv, it goes to a message to try again when I try to sign in on the mobile device and when I enter my Apple ID and password in the app on the tv it just keeps saying signing in until I have to exit it due to never connecting.
I followed your directions and rebooted Roku tv and uninstalled and reinstalled the Apple app but it continues to not work.
Still doesn’t work on my Roku. Apple is awful. Be like Hulu. It works
I have a Roku tv that does not have an SD slot yet I cannot sign in to Apple TV app.
It goes to a message to try again when I try to sign in on the mobile device and when I enter my Apple ID and password in the app on the tv it just keeps saying signing in until I have to exit it due to never connecting.
I followed your directions and rebooted Roku tv and uninstalled and reinstalled the Apple app but it continues to not work.
The Apple TV app works on my phone and my computer but will not sign in on my 49” TCL Roku tv. Very frustrating.
As of 2 days ago, the Apple TV channel stopped loading on my Roku Express+. Up until then it was working great. Now it starts to load then goes back to the Roku menu, I’ve uninstalled, reinstalled, cleared cache, everything. Nothing works, very frustrated.
Were you able to resolve? Apple keeps saying it is a Roku issue not an Apple issue.