To add users to the Apple TV app, you create individual profiles so each household member gets their own Up Next queue, watch history, and personalized recommendations. This guide covers how to add users to the Apple TV app on smart TVs, Apple TV 4K, iPhone, iPad, and Mac, including how to set up managed profiles and kid profiles.
What adding users to the Apple TV app does
Each profile provides its own Up Next queue, watch history, and personalized content recommendations. There is a distinction between Apple Account profiles and managed profiles: a profile linked to an existing Apple Account gives that person full access to their own purchases and subscriptions, while a managed profile is created under your Apple Account and can be controlled, modified, or upgraded later. A managing profile can create up to five additional managed profiles.
How to add users to the Apple TV app on a smart TV or streaming device
On a smart TV, streaming device, or gaming console, open the Apple TV app, then open the sidebar. From the sidebar, select the profile at the top, then choose "Add Profile," or select "Settings," then "Profiles," and then "Add New Profile." When adding a new profile, you can sign in using an internet-enabled mobile device to scan a QR code or sign in manually with an Apple ID. If your subscription comes through a wireless carrier, you may need to sign into Apple TV with T-Mobile first to activate your access.
How to add users to the Apple TV app on Apple TV 4K
There are two methods on Apple TV 4K. First, you can go to "Settings," then "Profiles and Accounts," and select "Add New Profile." To get to settings on Apple TV, navigate to the Home screen and select the Settings app. Alternatively, press and hold the TV button on the remote to open Control Center, navigate to "Profiles," then select "Add Profile."
How to add users to the Apple TV app on iPhone or iPad
Enter the necessary details for the new user, such as their name and profile picture, and set the preferred viewing restrictions if desired. Each user can sign in with their own Apple ID or create a new one if needed.
How to add users to the Apple TV app on Mac
Open the Apple TV app on your Mac. Click the "Users" button located in the top right corner of the app window, then select "Add User" from the drop-down menu. Enter the necessary details for the new user, including their name and profile picture, and adjust the desired viewing restrictions if necessary.
Setting up managed profiles and kid profiles
When adding a new profile, you can create a profile using an existing Apple Account or add a "managed profile" under your Apple Account. Managed profiles allow the managing account to access their data, modify, delete, or upgrade them to full Apple Accounts. Kid profiles can be set up with content restrictions, allowing you to choose age-appropriate categories for TV shows and movies and whether to allow purchases and rentals. Profile access can be secured by requiring a 4-digit code.
Profiles vs Family Sharing: what's the difference
Family Sharing is a separate feature that allows sharing viewing privileges and purchases with up to six family members. Family Sharing cannot be initiated or configured directly within the Apple TV app or on an Apple TV device; it must be set up on an iPhone, iPad, or Mac. Not all features and content are available in all countries or regions, or on all devices.
