If your Apple TV subscription (Apple TV+) is not working, it is likely due to a lingering server-side issue or a “refresh” error on your device.
Since you are asking this on December 3, 2025, you should know that there were user reports of outages and playback issues on December 2 and December 3. While Apple lists the service as “Resolved,” residual connection issues often affect users for 24 hours after a fix.
Here is a checklist to get it working again, ordered from the most likely fix to the least.
1. Fix the “Subscribe Loop” Bug
A common glitch occurs where the app “forgets” you have paid, asking you to subscribe again even though you are active.
The Fix: Go to Settings > Users and Accounts > [Your Name].
Select Sign Out.
Restart your device (unplug it for 10 seconds if it is a TV/console).
Sign back in. This forces the server to re-validate your active license.
Also Read : link.apple.com | Apple TV Not Signing In
2. Check for “Billing Problem” Flags
If your payment method (credit card/PayPal) expired or was declined for any Apple purchase (even a $0.99 iCloud charge), Apple freezes all subscriptions immediately.
How to check: Go to Settings > Users and Accounts > Payment & Shipping (on Apple devices) or check your email for a “Billing Problem” subject line.
The Fix: You must update your card details or add a new payment method to unlock the account.
3. Verify Your “Apple One” Status
If you recently switched to an Apple One bundle (which includes Apple TV+), your standalone subscription might have conflicted or cancelled automatically.
Check your active subscriptions in Settings > [Your Name] > Subscriptions to ensure “Apple TV+” or “Apple One” is listed under Active, not Expired.
4. Are you using Family Sharing?
If you get the subscription through a family member:
Ensure the “Organizer” has Purchase Sharing turned ON.
Verify you are logged into the “Media & Purchases” section with your own Apple ID, not the shared one.
5. Quick Device Troubleshooting
Update Software: An outdated Apple TV app is the #1 cause of playback errors. Update your TV’s firmware or the app itself.
HDMI Connection (HDCP Error): If you see a black screen or an error message about content protection, try unplugging your HDMI cable and plugging it back in firmly.
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