How to Get Your Film on Apple TV: Submission and Requirements

Apple TV represents the premium tier of digital film distribution. The platform, rebranded from Apple TV+ in October 2025, operates across 114 territories and maintains the highest technical quality bar in the streaming industry. For independent filmmakers, getting a film on Apple TV signals a level of production quality and marketability that not every indie film can achieve.

Unlike Amazon Prime Video Direct, which allows direct self-submission, Apple TV has no self-submission option. You cannot simply create an account and upload your film. Apple requires all content to be delivered through an Apple-approved aggregator or distributor. This gatekeeping is intentional. Apple curates its platform carefully, and the aggregator system ensures that only content meeting Apple's technical and quality standards reaches the platform.

This guide covers everything you need to know about getting your film on Apple TV in 2026, from choosing an aggregator to meeting technical specifications to delivering your content through Apple's pipeline.

Quick Answer

To get your film on Apple TV, you must work with an Apple-approved aggregator or distributor. There is no direct self-submission option. Aggregators like FilmHub, Quiver, and Bitmax handle technical delivery, metadata, artwork, and quality control on your behalf, typically for an upfront fee or a percentage of revenue.

Apple's technical requirements are the most demanding of any streaming platform. Content must be delivered using Apple's Transporter tool in the proprietary .itmsp iTunes Package format. Premium releases should include Dolby Vision HDR, Dolby Atmos audio, and 4K UHD. Movies are due four weeks before the sales start date, and it typically takes four weeks for a movie to go live after delivery.

Artwork requirements include multiple image sizes and formats: 16:9 landscape art (minimum 1920x1080, 3840x2160 preferred), 2:3 portrait poster art (minimum 2000x3000), and backdrop images for various Apple devices. Closed captions are required for all US feature deliveries. Apple pays on a transactional (TVOD) model, with revenue shares typically around 70/30 in the filmmaker's favor.

How Apple TV Distribution Works

The Aggregator System

Apple does not work directly with individual filmmakers. All content is delivered through approved aggregators or encoding houses that have established relationships with Apple. These partners handle:

• Technical delivery and quality control
• Metadata creation and submission
• Artwork preparation and compliance
• Rights management and territory configuration
• Ongoing title management and reporting

According to Apple's partner support documentation, aggregators serve as the bridge between rights holders and Apple's platform. They ensure that content meets Apple's specifications before it enters the delivery pipeline, reducing the likelihood of rejection during Apple's quality control process.

Transactional Model

Apple TV operates primarily on a transactional (TVOD) model. Customers can rent or purchase your film through the Apple TV app. This is different from subscription platforms like Netflix or Shudder, where viewers pay a monthly fee for access to a library.

The TVOD model means that each transaction generates direct revenue. A customer who rents your film for $4.99 generates a specific, trackable revenue event. The standard revenue split is approximately 70/30 in the filmmaker's favor, though exact terms depend on your aggregator's agreement and the territory.

Apple TV vs. Apple TV+

It is important to understand the distinction between the Apple TV app and Apple TV+ (now rebranded as Apple TV in October 2025). The Apple TV app is the platform where customers can rent, purchase, and watch content from multiple sources. Apple TV is the subscription service that features Apple's original programming.

Getting your film on the Apple TV app as a transactional title (rent or purchase) is achievable through an aggregator. Getting your film on Apple TV as an original or exclusive is a different process that requires a direct deal with Apple's content acquisitions team, typically through a sales agent or entertainment attorney.

Choosing an Aggregator

What Aggregators Do

An aggregator is a company that specializes in placing indie films on digital platforms. They handle the technical delivery, metadata, artwork, and quality control that platforms require. In exchange, they charge either an upfront fee, a percentage of revenue, or both.

According to Garvescope's guide to getting indie films on digital platforms, aggregators typically charge either an upfront fee or take a percentage of your revenue. They help you navigate metadata requirements, encoding standards, artwork specs, and subtitling needs. Some even handle quality control to ensure your film meets platform requirements before submission.

Popular Aggregators for Apple TV

What to Look For in an Aggregator

When choosing an aggregator for Apple TV distribution, consider:

• Apple approval status: Confirm the aggregator is an Apple-approved partner. Not all aggregators have direct relationships with Apple.
• Fee structure: Understand whether you pay upfront, pay a revenue share, or both. Calculate the effective cost per dollar of revenue.
• Platform reach: Does the aggregator only place content on Apple TV, or do they also handle Amazon, Google Play, Vudu, and other platforms? Multi-platform aggregators save you time.
• Reporting transparency: How often does the aggregator report earnings? Is the reporting detailed enough to understand your film's performance?
• Marketing support: Some aggregators offer marketing services in addition to technical delivery. This can be valuable if you do not have a marketing team.
• Track record: Ask for references from other filmmakers who have used the aggregator. Be cautious of aggregators with poor reputations. Distribber, for example, famously went under leaving many filmmakers unpaid.

Technical Requirements

Video Specifications

Apple maintains the highest technical standards in the streaming industry. According to Molten Cloud's Apple TV delivery guide, specifications include Dolby Vision HDR, Dolby Atmos audio, and 4K UHD for premium releases.

Key video requirements:

• Format: Delivered via Apple's Transporter tool in .itmsp iTunes Package format
• Resolution: 4K UHD preferred for premium releases; 1080p minimum for standard releases
• HDR: HDR-10 or Dolby Vision for premium releases; SDR for standard
• Audio: Dolby Atmos for premium releases; 5.1 surround or stereo for standard
• Frame rate: Constant frame rate matching the original content
• No telecined content: Must be inverse-telecined to native frame rate

Artwork Requirements

Apple's artwork requirements are extensive and specific. According to Apple's artwork requirements documentation, you must provide multiple image assets:

Artwork rules:

• Must represent the correct movie and be the current version
• No upscaling or cropping that affects quality
• No blurry or pixelated images
• No placeholder graphics or blank images
• Title treatment must be included in the 16:9 art, but no extraneous text
• Backdrop images should not contain any text
• Color profile: Display P3 strongly preferred, or sRGB
• Bit depth: 8 or 16 bits

For guidance on creating professional key art that meets these specifications, see our guide on how to create a film key art package on a budget.

Closed Captions and Subtitles

Closed captions are required for all US feature deliveries. According to Apple's regional requirements, the only exemptions are:

• English-language films that have never been broadcast in the US (delivered with SDH and a NEVER_IN_US reason code)
• English-language films broadcast in the US but never with captions (delivered with SDH and IN_US_NO_CAPTIONS reason code)
• Non-English films never broadcast in the US (need English subtitles or SDH)

For international territories, subtitle requirements vary. Work with your aggregator to ensure you meet the caption and subtitle requirements for each territory where you want your film available.

Metadata

Apple requires detailed metadata for each title, including:

• Title name, synopsis, and genre
• Cast and crew information
• Release date and runtime
• Content rating for each territory
• Country of origin
• Original spoken language
• Copyright information
• ISAN or V-ISAN for certain territories (Switzerland requires this for films over 60 minutes)

Delivery Timeline

According to Apple's delivery timeline documentation, movies are due four weeks before the sales start date. After delivery, movies go through quality control to find and resolve any potential issues. The movie's metadata goes through a final review to ensure it complies with Apple standards. It typically takes four weeks for a movie to go live, though the timeline for individual content may vary.

If you are including iTunes Extras content (behind-the-scenes features, deleted scenes, commentary):

• Six weeks before release: Deliver your movie and required language components for each territory
• Four weeks before release: Deliver your Extras package for each territory
• Two weeks before release: Approve your Extras for review

Plan your delivery schedule accordingly. If you want your film to go live on a specific date, you need to deliver to your aggregator at least 6 to 8 weeks before that date to allow for aggregator processing, Apple QC, and metadata review.

Regional Requirements

Apple operates in 114 territories, and each may have specific requirements. Key regional considerations:

• European countries: May require country of origin, production country, and original spoken locale
• India: Requires specific copyright declaration wording and health warning tags for films containing smoking or drinking
• Russia: Requires localized poster art, title, synopsis, chapter titles, and a localized trailer in Russian
• Switzerland: Requires ISAN or V-ISAN for films over 60 minutes released after January 1, 2017

Your aggregator should handle regional requirements, but you need to provide the necessary information and assets. Discuss territory plans with your aggregator early in the process.

Costs and Revenue

Aggregator Fees

Aggregator fee structures vary. Common models:

Some aggregators, like FilmHub, operate on a revenue-share-only model with no upfront fee. Others charge an upfront fee and take a smaller revenue share. Calculate the total cost over the expected life of your title to compare options fairly.

Apple's Revenue Share

Apple typically keeps 30 percent of each transaction, with 70 percent going to the rights holder. However, the rights holder's share passes through your aggregator, which takes its percentage before paying you. The effective revenue split depends on both Apple's cut and your aggregator's cut.

Example: A customer rents your film for $4.99. Apple keeps $1.50 (30 percent). The remaining $3.49 goes to your aggregator. If your aggregator takes 20 percent, they keep $0.70 and you receive $2.79. That is approximately 56 percent of the original transaction.

Pricing

Apple sets retail pricing guidelines, and your aggregator works within those guidelines to set rental and purchase prices for your film. Typical pricing:

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Choosing the Wrong Aggregator

Not all aggregators are equal. Some have better relationships with Apple than others. Some have transparent reporting, while others are opaque. Some have fair contracts, while others lock you into long-term deals with unfavorable terms. Research aggregators thoroughly before signing anything. Ask for references. Read the contract carefully, especially the term length and termination clauses.

Underestimating Technical Requirements

Apple's technical standards are the highest in the industry. If your film was shot on a low-end camera, edited with consumer software, and color-graded on a laptop monitor, it may not meet Apple's quality bar. Have your aggregator assess your technical delivery before committing to the process. Fixing technical issues after submission is costly and time-consuming.

Not Preparing Artwork to Specification

Apple's artwork requirements are extensive. You need multiple images in specific dimensions, color profiles, and formats. Preparing these assets takes time and design expertise. Do not leave artwork preparation to the last minute. See our guide on poster typography and color theory for design guidance.

Missing Delivery Deadlines

Apple requires movies to be delivered four weeks before the sales start date. If you miss this deadline, your release date slips. Plan your post-production schedule with Apple's delivery timeline in mind. Rushing to meet a deadline often results in technical errors that cause further delays.

Expecting Apple to Market Your Film

Like Amazon, Apple does not market individual transactional titles. Your film will be available on the platform, but Apple will not promote it unless it is an Apple TV original or you have a separate marketing agreement. You are responsible for driving audience awareness and traffic to your Apple TV listing. For a complete marketing framework, see our guide on how to promote your independent film online.

What Filmmakers Should Do Next

1. Research and choose an aggregator. Compare fee structures, platform reach, and reputations. Get references from other filmmakers. See our guide on self-distributing your film in 2026.

2. Assess your technical delivery. Ensure your film meets Apple's video, audio, and caption specifications. Work with your aggregator to identify any technical issues before submission.

3. Prepare artwork to Apple's specifications. You need multiple images in specific dimensions and formats. Hire a professional designer if necessary. See our guide on how to create a film key art package on a budget.

4. Plan your delivery timeline. Deliver to your aggregator at least 6 to 8 weeks before your target release date. Account for aggregator processing, Apple QC, and metadata review.

5. Determine your territory strategy. Decide which of Apple's 114 territories you want to target. Discuss regional requirements with your aggregator. See our guide on distribution windowing strategy.

6. Plan your marketing campaign. Apple will not market your film. You need to drive traffic to your Apple TV listing through your own efforts. See our guide on film release marketing checklist.

7. Create a smart link for your film. Once your film is on Apple TV, create a smart link that directs audiences to the correct platform across devices. See our guide on smart links for films.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I submit my film directly to Apple TV?

No. Apple does not accept direct submissions from filmmakers. You must work with an Apple-approved aggregator or distributor that has an established relationship with Apple. The aggregator handles technical delivery, metadata, artwork, and quality control.

How much does it cost to get my film on Apple TV?

Costs vary by aggregator. Some aggregators charge an upfront fee of $200 to $1,000 per title. Others operate on a revenue-share-only model with no upfront fee. Apple typically keeps 30 percent of each transaction, and your aggregator takes its percentage from the remaining revenue. Calculate the total cost over the expected life of your title to compare options.

What are Apple's technical requirements for film delivery?

Apple requires content delivered via the Transporter tool in .itmsp iTunes Package format. Premium releases should include 4K UHD, Dolby Vision HDR, and Dolby Atmos audio. Standard releases require minimum 1080p with 5.1 surround or stereo audio. Closed captions are required for all US feature deliveries.

How long does it take for a film to go live on Apple TV?

It typically takes four weeks for a movie to go live after delivery. Movies are due four weeks before the sales start date. Plan to deliver to your aggregator at least 6 to 8 weeks before your target release date to account for aggregator processing and Apple's quality control.

What artwork do I need for Apple TV?

Apple requires multiple artwork assets: 16:9 landscape art (minimum 1920x1080), 2:3 portrait poster art (minimum 2000x3000), backdrop images for various devices (4320x3240 wide, 1680x3636 tall), and a transparent logo. All artwork must meet specific format, color profile, and quality requirements.

Does Apple market my film on the platform?

No. Apple does not market individual transactional titles. Your film will be available on the platform, but you are responsible for driving audience awareness and traffic to your listing. Plan your own marketing campaign to support your Apple TV release.

What is the difference between Apple TV and Apple TV+?

The Apple TV app is the platform where customers can rent, purchase, and watch content from multiple sources. Apple TV (formerly Apple TV+) is the subscription service featuring Apple's original programming. Getting your film on the Apple TV app as a transactional title is achievable through an aggregator. Getting your film as an Apple TV original requires a direct deal with Apple's content acquisitions team.

Conclusion

Apple TV is the premium platform for digital film distribution. It offers the highest technical quality, a global audience across 114 territories, and the credibility that comes with being on Apple's curated platform. But it also has the highest barriers to entry: no direct submission, demanding technical specifications, extensive artwork requirements, and a delivery process that requires an approved aggregator.

The key to success on Apple TV is preparation. Choose the right aggregator. Ensure your technical delivery meets Apple's standards. Prepare your artwork to specification. Plan your delivery timeline with Apple's four-week lead time in mind. And do not expect Apple to market your film for you.

Apple TV works best as part of a multi-platform distribution strategy, not as a standalone destination. Combine it with Amazon Prime Video Direct for broader reach, AVOD platforms like Tubi for ad-supported revenue, and direct-to-audience sales for maximum control. Each platform serves a different audience segment and revenue model.

Once your film is available across multiple platforms, tools like Filmcane can help you create smart links that direct audiences to the right platform for their device and region, track which marketing channels are driving the most transactions, and measure how your Apple TV presence contributes to your overall distribution revenue. The platform sets the quality bar. The strategy determines whether you clear it.