Apple TV has given us the freedom to keep up with our favorite series and the latest movies with a click of a button from the comfort of our own home. But can we bring it with us when adventure calls from the other side of the world?
If you’re a digital nomad, always on the move, or just looking to go on a quick getaway, you may be wondering if your Apple TV will still work abroad.
Do you need endless amounts of new cables? How much of your precious time will you spend trying to just watch that season finale in your hotel room?
Keep reading to find out!
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Does Apple TV Work Abroad?
Yes, Apple TV hardware is universal.
Your Apple TV has a power transformer manufactured into it, which means you don’t have to worry about it being incompatible with overseas power supplies. Simply plug your Apple TV cables into a travel adapter, and you’re ready to go!
The hardware itself is not region-locked, so your device should work anywhere no matter where you originally purchased it.
Apple TVs also require an HDMI cable to be hooked up to your TV. Luckily, if you own an Apple TV you can just pack your own along for the trip. Once at your destination, just plug it into your TV like you do at home and your Apple TV hardware set-up is complete!
Can I Take my Apple TV Overseas?
Yes, Apple TV does not restrict content based on your actual location.
Other streaming services geo-restrict content based on your actual physical location, determined by your IP address. Apple, on the other hand, has chosen to limit content based on your location when you originally bought it, and the billing address used for your Apple account.
This means that even if you purchased your subscription in New York, you will still be able to stream series and movies while vacationing in Paris.
However, be aware that the content is offered based on your location of purchase. So if you change your Apple account from one country to another, you may not be able to view the same content you did back home.
What Countries is Apple TV Available in?
Luckily, Apple TV is available in most countries.
You can access Apple TV from the US, Canada, and most of Latin America, the Caribbean, and Europe.
Unfortunately, those traveling to or living in a few regions of Africa or Asia may not be able to purchase Apple TV, specifically if they do not have a billing address in a country where the service is accessible.
There’s no need to despair just yet, though!
In most countries where Apple TV is not available, locals can download the Apple TV app which allows you to download movies and shows from iTunes and sync them to your Apple device. Although you won’t be able to stream content, you can still watch them on the go.
To see a complete list of countries and which Apple Media Services are available in them, visit Availability of Apple Media Services.
How to Get Apple TV Online While Traveling?
You have a few different options for connecting your Apple TV to the internet.
If you’re staying at a hotel or resort you may experience a spotty connection. If that’s the case try connecting via your mobile hotspot.
To do this, activate your hotspot, connect your computer to it via Wi-Fi, then your Apple TV like you would normally do via a standard Wi-Fi network. This may be expensive, as hotspots consume a lot of data, but your connection will be more reliable.
Finally, you can go online via a broadband connection. If you’re renting an apartment, rather than staying in a hotel, this may be easier since apartments usually include their own Wi-Fi routers. Alternatively, you can bring your own transportable router and connect that way.
How do I Change the Country on my Apple TV?
You can change your region in only a few clicks!
Open the settings (marked by a gear icon), and click on “General” from the list. From here you can easily go to “Region”, then select your country of choice. Just like that, you’ve gone international!
If you’re having trouble changing your region, it may be because you have ongoing subscriptions of left-over store credit. This will stop you from making the switch, since they won’t be converted into another currency or might not be available in another country.
Please note that you will need to submit a valid billing address and payment method for the new region.
If you’re having difficulty spending your store credit because it’s not enough to buy something, contact Apple TV Support.
You should also hold off until any rentals, memberships, or pre-orders are finalized, since this will interfere with and stop the transition from one country to another.
Lastly, be sure to redownload any media (i.e. TV series, movies, music, etc.) onto your device, because they may not be available in other regions.
Can I bring my Apple TV to Europe?
Yes, your Apple TV is ready to go to Europe!
As long as you have a travel adapter and a plane ticket, both you and your Apple TV are ready to head to Europe!
Apple TVs only need to be plugged into a socket with their corresponding cable, then into the TV through the HDMI outlet. This means that you can take it with you anywhere!
Are Apple TVs Region Locked?
Unfortunately, Apple TV is region locked.
You will only be able to access content from your country of purchase according to your Apple account billing address. So you won’t be able to see certain media that’s unavailable in your country.
However, you can use a VPN to bypass these restrictions and get back to binge watching the shows you love most.
Wrapping Things Up
Traveling and moving around can already come with enough stress, but don’t worry, you will surely be able to relax and watch Apple TV once you’re at your destination.
So go ahead, kick your feet up and continue that episode you started on the flip side of Earth. You deserve it!
What has your experience been with using Apple TV abroad?
Let us know in the comments below!
Read more: Can I Take An Apple TV On A Plane?
Yesenia Achlim is a technical copywriter and editor with a focus on AV equipment. She aims to break down complicated topics and make technology accessible, no matter your technical expertise. When she’s not teaching you how to replace a projector lamp, you can find her reading and baking.