As Major League Soccer (MLS) continues to grow in popularity, fans are eager to find out how they can watch their favorite teams compete. With the advent of streaming services, Apple TV has emerged as a major player, offering soccer enthusiasts an exciting way to catch the action. However, one key question lingers: how much will MLS cost on Apple TV? In this article, we’ll explore the pricing structure, subscription details, and additional features that Apple TV offers for soccer fans.
Understanding the MLS Streaming Deal with Apple TV
In a landmark agreement, Apple announced its multi-year partnership with Major League Soccer, allowing fans to stream every MLS match through the Apple TV app. This partnership represents a significant shift in how soccer is consumed in the United States and Canada.
What to Expect from the Apple TV MLS Package
The MLS package on Apple TV provides a comprehensive viewing experience for soccer fans. Here are some key features associated with this streaming service:
- **Live Matches**: Stream all MLS regular season games, playoffs, and the MLS Cup.
- **Additional Content**: Access to pre-game shows, post-game analysis, and insider interviews with players and coaches.
Cost Structure of MLS on Apple TV
As of its inception, Apple TV’s MLS service follows a subscription model. Understanding the costs involved is crucial for fans wanting to engage with every aspect of the league.
Pricing Details
The cost for accessing MLS content through Apple TV is structured as follows:
- Monthly Subscription: For fans who want flexibility, subscribing on a monthly basis is an option. The price is generally around $14.99 per month.
- Annual Subscription: For dedicated fans, committing to an annual subscription typically reduces the monthly cost to about $99.00 per year, which averages out to around $8.25 per month.
Important Note: Prices can vary based on promotions or local market considerations, so it’s essential to check the latest pricing directly through the Apple TV app or the official MLS website.
Additional Features and Benefits
Aside from just live matches, subscribing to the MLS streaming service via Apple TV unlocks a range of additional features that enrich the viewer’s experience.
Exclusive Content and Features
- Coverage of All League Tiers: Subscribers not only gain access to MLS matches but may also be able to follow lower league games. This helps foster a wider appreciation for soccer in North America.
- Accessibility and Compatibility: The Apple TV app is available on various platforms, including smart TVs, smartphones, and tablets, making it easy for fans to catch the matches no matter where they are.
- Interactive Features: Apple plans to incorporate unique interactive features into the viewing experience. Expect features like multiple camera angles, real-time stats, and exclusive player content to be integrated soon.
Family Sharing Options
Apple TV also offers family sharing options, allowing multiple viewers to enjoy the benefits of a single subscription. Up to six family members can share a subscription, which can help ease the financial burden on individual fans.
How to Subscribe
For those interested in subscribing to MLS on Apple TV, the process is fairly straightforward.
Step-by-Step Subscription Guide
- Download the Apple TV App: If you haven’t already, download the Apple TV app on your preferred device.
- Create or Log in to Your Apple ID: An Apple ID is necessary to proceed with the subscription. If you don’t have one, creating it is quick and easy.
- Navigate to the MLS Section: Once logged in, search for the MLS section in the streaming catalog.
- Select Your Subscription Plan: Choose between the monthly or annual subscription based on your viewing preferences.
- Complete the Payment Process: Follow the prompts to enter your payment information and finalize your subscription.
Payment Options
Apple offers various payment methods, including credit/debit cards and Apple Pay, making the checkout process flexible and secure for subscribers.
Potential Savings with Apple TV MLS Subscription
While the monthly cost may seem on the higher side compared to traditional cable packages, consider the range of benefits that come with streaming through Apple TV.
Calculating the Cost
Here’s a simple breakdown of potential savings when opting for an annual subscription versus monthly payments:
| Subscription Type | Cost | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Subscription | $14.99 | 1 Month |
| Annual Subscription | $99.00 | 12 Months |
As seen in the table, the annual plan not only provides substantial savings but ensures you won’t miss any matches throughout the season.
Limitations and Considerations
Before diving headfirst into the subscription, it is essential to be aware of some potential limitations.
Geographic Restrictions
Depending on your location, some matches may be subject to blackout restrictions. While Apple is working to minimize these issues, fans should check coverage based on their area.
Bandwidth and Quality
Streaming quality can greatly depend on your internet connection. Ensure you have a reliable and fast internet connection to enjoy matches without interruptions.
The Future of MLS and Streaming
The partnership between MLS and Apple is poised to change the landscape of soccer broadcasting in North America.
The Impact on Viewership
By moving to a direct streaming model, MLS aims to attract younger audiences who prefer streaming over traditional cable services. This transition is expected to open the doors for more innovative features and interactive content, further enhancing user engagement.
Other Sports Partnerships
This arrangement represents a broader trend in sports broadcasting, as various leagues across different sports explore streaming possibilities.
Final Thoughts
With an ever-evolving landscape of media consumption, the cost of MLS on Apple TV presents an interesting proposition for fans. By prioritizing accessibility, content variety, and user engagement, Apple TV is positioned to significantly enhance the way fans experience soccer in the United States and Canada.
For those considering a subscription, the investment could well be worth it, especially with the exciting features and comprehensive coverage on offer. Make sure to keep abreast of any changes in pricing or offerings so that you can make the most informed decision possible.
In summary, if you’re an ardent soccer fan looking to enjoy every match live and have the flexibility to do so across various devices, subscribing to watch MLS on Apple TV is likely a smart choice.
What is the cost of MLS Season Pass on Apple TV?
The MLS Season Pass on Apple TV is priced at $14.99 per month for fans who choose to subscribe on a monthly basis. Alternatively, there is an annual subscription option available for $99, which offers a more economical choice for those who plan to follow the league throughout the entire season. This pricing structure is designed to provide flexibility for different viewer preferences.
Additionally, subscribers may also find promotional offers throughout the year, especially during the start of the season or significant events. It’s advisable for fans to keep an eye on any potential discounts that might be available, particularly if they are new subscribers to Apple TV services.
What’s included in the MLS Season Pass?
The MLS Season Pass includes access to all matches throughout the MLS regular season, playoffs, and the MLS Cup. Fans will also enjoy the added benefit of on-demand replays and highlights, ensuring they never miss a moment. Furthermore, select matches from the Leagues Cup and additional content like pre-game shows and post-game analysis are also included.
Subscribers will have access to a wide range of content, offering comprehensive coverage of the league. This includes exclusive interviews, behind-the-scenes footage, and various features that add depth to the viewing experience, making it a complete package for soccer enthusiasts.
Is there a free trial available for MLS Season Pass?
Currently, Apple TV does not offer a free trial specifically for the MLS Season Pass. However, new users can often benefit from promotional offers that Apple runs across its service, including potential discounts on initial subscriptions or bundled offers with devices like Apple TV 4K.
Fans interested in trying out the service are encouraged to take advantage of any temporary promotions that make subscription more cost-effective initially. Staying informed through Apple TV’s announcements or the MLS website can provide insights on any available options.
Can I watch matches on devices other than Apple TV?
Yes, the MLS Season Pass on Apple TV is accessible on a variety of devices beyond the Apple TV box itself. Fans can enjoy matches on iPhones, iPads, and Mac computers if they have the Apple TV app installed. Furthermore, the Apple TV app is also available on many smart TVs and gaming consoles, allowing for flexibility in viewing options.
This versatility means that fans can watch MLS matches wherever they are, whether at home or on the go. As long as they have access to the internet and the Apple TV app, fans can catch all the action of Major League Soccer across numerous platforms.
Are there any regional restrictions for viewing MLS matches?
The MLS Season Pass generally allows for nationwide access to matches; however, there are some regional restrictions in place. Local blackout rules apply for certain games, especially those traditionally broadcast by local networks. This means that for those matches, options may be limited to watching on those specific local channels, depending on team affiliations.
To know the specifics and any applicable blackout rules for your region, it’s advisable for fans to check the MLS website or their local listings. This will ensure they are fully aware of which games are accessible through the Season Pass in their area.
Can I share my MLS Season Pass subscription with others?
The MLS Season Pass subscription is typically tied to an Apple ID account, which means it is intended for personal use. Sharing account details with others is generally discouraged as it can lead to security issues and violate terms of service agreements. While users can simultaneously stream on multiple devices, sharing the login credentials outside of your household may result in complications with access.
For fans wanting to watch matches with friends or family, gathering together in a single location with a shared device is a great option. This way, everyone can enjoy the matches without the risks associated with sharing account information.