How To Download Apps On Apple TV Without App Store

Introduction

Welcome to the world of Apple TV, a powerful streaming device that brings entertainment right into your living room. With its extensive App Store, Apple TV provides a wide range of apps and games to enhance your television experience.

However, what if you want to download apps on Apple TV that are not available in the App Store? In this article, we will explore alternative methods to download apps without relying solely on the App Store.

Whether you’re an app developer looking to test your creations or simply someone who wants access to unique apps, we’ve got you covered. We will discuss two options for sideloading apps onto your Apple TV using Xcode and Apple Configurator 2. But, before diving into those methods, let’s explore the option of downloading apps using the Siri Remote and App Store (if available).

Note: The ability to sideload apps requires some technical knowledge and may void your device’s warranty. Proceed at your own risk and ensure you have proper permissions and rights to install third-party apps.

Option 1: Downloading Apps Using the Siri Remote and App Store (If Available)

If you are lucky enough to have access to the App Store on your Apple TV, downloading apps is a breeze. The Siri Remote makes the process quick and easy. Here’s how you can do it:

1. From the main menu of your Apple TV, navigate to the App Store icon.
2. Use the Siri Remote to browse and search for the desired app by entering its name using the on-screen keyboard or speaking into the microphone.
3. Select the app you want from the search results or browse through the various categories and featured apps.
4. Once you’ve found the app you want, select it and click the “Get” button to initiate the download process.
5. If the app is free, it will start downloading immediately. If it’s a paid app, you will be prompted to enter your Apple ID and password to complete the purchase.
6. Once the app is downloaded, it will appear on your Apple TV’s home screen. Simply select it to launch and start using the app.

It’s worth noting that the availability of the App Store may vary depending on your Apple TV model and the region where you live. However, if you have access to the App Store, this is by far the simplest and most convenient way to download apps onto your Apple TV.

Now that we’ve covered the option of downloading apps from the App Store, let’s explore the process of sideloading apps using Xcode, the official software development tool from Apple.

Option 2: Sideloading Apps Using Xcode

If you’re an app developer or have access to third-party apps, sideloading apps using Xcode is a great option. This method allows you to install apps directly onto your Apple TV without relying on the App Store. Here’s how you can do it:

1. First, make sure you have the latest version of Xcode installed on your Mac. You can download it for free from the Mac App Store.
2. Connect your Apple TV to your Mac using a USB-C cable.
3. Open Xcode on your Mac and click on “Create a new Xcode project.”
4. Select the “tvOS” template under “Application” and click “Next.”
5. Provide a unique name for your project and choose a location to save it on your Mac. Click “Next” to proceed.
6. In the project settings, make sure to select your Apple TV as the target device.
7. Now, you can start building your app or choose to import an existing app.
8. Once you are ready to install the app on your Apple TV, click on the “Product” tab in Xcode’s menu, then select “Archive.”
9. After the archive process is complete, click on “Distribute App” and choose an export method.
10. Xcode will create an IPA file for your app. Save it to a location on your Mac.
11. Now, open the Terminal on your Mac and enter the following command: xcrun -sdk appletvos PackageApplication -v [path to IPA file]
12. This command will create a signed IPA file that can be installed on your Apple TV.
13. Finally, use a utility like Cydia Impactor to install the IPA file on your Apple TV by connecting it to your Mac and following the on-screen instructions.

With Xcode, you can unleash the full potential of your Apple TV by installing custom apps and taking advantage of advanced features. Just remember, this method requires some technical knowledge and is primarily intended for developers and advanced users.

Now that you know how to sideload apps using Xcode, let’s explore another option for sideloading apps using Apple Configurator 2.

Option 3: Sideloading Apps Using Apple Configurator 2

If you prefer a more user-friendly approach to sideloading apps on your Apple TV, Apple Configurator 2 is the ideal tool. Apple Configurator 2 provides a simple interface for managing and deploying apps to your Apple TV devices. Here’s how you can use Apple Configurator 2 to sideload apps:

1. Download and install Apple Configurator 2 from the Mac App Store onto your Mac.
2. Connect your Apple TV to your Mac using a USB-C cable.
3. Launch Apple Configurator 2 on your Mac.
4. In Apple Configurator 2, click on the “Prepare” tab.
5. Click on the “+” button and select “Apps” to add an app to your library.
6. Browse and select the IPA file of the app you want to sideload onto your Apple TV.
7. Once the app is added to your library, select your Apple TV device from the list on the left.
8. Under the “Apps” section, check the box next to the app you want to install.
9. Click on the “Apply” button to begin the installation process.
10. Apple Configurator 2 will start installing the selected app onto your Apple TV.
11. Once the installation is complete, you can disconnect your Apple TV from your Mac and start using the sideloaded app.

With Apple Configurator 2, you have a hassle-free solution for sideloading apps onto your Apple TV. It is a great option for those who are not familiar with complex development tools but still want to enjoy the benefits of installing custom apps on their Apple TV.

Now that you know how to sideload apps using Apple Configurator 2, you have three viable options to explore when it comes to downloading apps on Apple TV. Choose the method that best suits your needs and take your Apple TV experience to the next level.

Conclusion

Apple TV offers a world of entertainment possibilities, and while the App Store is the primary source for apps, there are alternative methods to download apps onto your Apple TV. Whether you want to explore unique apps, test your own creations, or simply have more control over the apps on your device, you have options.

In this article, we covered three methods for downloading apps on Apple TV. If you have access to the App Store, the Siri Remote makes it effortless to browse, search, and download apps directly. However, if you want to go beyond the App Store, you can turn to sideloading.

If you’re a developer or have access to Xcode, you can sideload apps onto your Apple TV by following a series of steps. This method requires technical knowledge and is primarily intended for advanced users. However, it allows for greater flexibility and customization.

If you prefer a more user-friendly approach, Apple Configurator 2 offers a straightforward way to sideload apps onto your Apple TV. With its simple interface, you can easily manage and deploy apps without the need for extensive technical skills.

Remember, sideloading apps may void your device’s warranty and can have security implications. Make sure to proceed with caution, follow official guidelines, and ensure you have proper permissions and rights to install third-party apps.

Now that you have learned about the various methods for downloading apps on Apple TV, it’s time to explore the possibilities and make the most of your entertainment experience.