Overview
Apple TV+ is quietly building a reputation for high-quality original programming, and right now it's airing two of its best-reviewed shows all year. These series have earned critical acclaim and are available to stream immediately. With a stellar summer lineup on the horizon, now is the perfect time to catch up on these current hits. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to find, watch, and enjoy Apple TV+'s top-rated offerings — from what makes them stand out to how to maximize your streaming experience.
Prerequisites
What You'll Need
- An Apple TV+ subscription — $9.99/month (or included in Apple One bundles). New subscribers can start a 7-day free trial.
- A compatible device — Any iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV, or select smart TVs, gaming consoles, and streaming sticks that support the Apple TV app.
- Internet connection — At least 25 Mbps for smooth 4K streaming.
- Apple ID — Required to sign in and manage subscriptions.
- Optional: A review aggregator account (like Rotten Tomatoes or Metacritic) to track scores and read critic reviews.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Identify the Top-Rated Shows
Apple TV+’s best-reviewed shows of the year so far are currently airing new episodes. As of mid-2025, these include:
- Show A (e.g., “The Big Door Prize”) — boasts a 94% on Rotten Tomatoes.
- Show B (e.g., “Silo” season 2) — holds a 92% critics score.
To verify the latest ratings, visit review sites directly or use the Apple TV app’s built-in ratings (star icons on show pages). You can also search “Apple TV+ best reviewed 2025” online to see updated lists. These shows are actively releasing new episodes weekly.
2. Subscribe or Activate Your Free Trial
If you don’t already have Apple TV+, follow these steps:
- Open the Apple TV app on your device.
- Tap “Try it Free” or “Subscribe.”
- Sign in with your Apple ID (or create one).
- Confirm your billing info (trial won’t charge until after 7 days).
- Cancel anytime before the trial ends if you don’t want to continue.
Pro tip: If you already used a trial, consider bundling via Apple One (which includes Apple TV+, Music, Arcade, and iCloud storage) for better value.
3. Navigate to the Shows
Once subscribed, launch the Apple TV app. Use the search icon (magnifying glass) and type the show name. Alternatively, browse the “Apple TV+” tab and look for “New and Notable” or “Top Rated.” The platform also has a “Summer Watchlist” section highlighting current hits. For direct access, you can ensure your device is updated to the latest tvOS or iOS version for optimal performance.
4. Start Streaming
Select the show, then click the episode you want to watch. Apple TV+ supports Dolby Vision and Atmos, so enable these in your TV settings if available. You can download episodes for offline viewing on mobile devices. To avoid spoilers, set the playback to start from episode 1 if you’re new to the series.
For a seamless experience, use Continue Watching on the Home screen to pick up where you left off across all your Apple devices via iCloud sync.
5. Set Reminders for Upcoming Episodes
Both shows release new episodes weekly. To stay notified:
- In the Apple TV app, tap the bell icon next to the show to enable notifications.
- Add the release schedule to your calendar (usually Fridays).
- Or use the Up Next queue — any titled episode will appear there automatically.
6. Explore the Summer Lineup
Apple TV+ is about to launch its best summer lineup ever. While you’re catching up on the current top-rated shows, keep an eye on the “Coming Soon” section for upcoming originals like “The Changeling” and “Criminal Record.” You can pre-add these to your Up Next to get premiere notifications.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake 1: Assuming Free Trial Is Unlimited
Many new users think they can keep creating accounts for endless trials. Apple tracks your Apple ID, so you can only get the 7-day trial once per account. Avoid sharing your Apple ID with others to prevent accidental charges.
Mistake 2: Overlooking Device Compatibility
Some older TVs or streaming sticks may not support the Apple TV app. Check Apple’s support page for a full list. If your device is unsupported, you can still watch via AirPlay from an iPhone or iPad.
Mistake 3: Ignoring Review Aggregators
Don’t rely solely on Apple’s star ratings (which can be subject to less scrutiny). Use Rotten Tomatoes or Metacritic for more comprehensive critic and audience scores. This helps you avoid shows that look appealing but have poor reception.
Mistake 4: Missing Episode Release Times
New episodes drop at 12 a.m. PT / 3 a.m. ET on the scheduled day. If you’re in a different time zone, plan accordingly. Many viewers mistakenly think episodes appear earlier, leading to disappointment.
Mistake 5: Forgetting to Cancel Before Trial Ends
Set a calendar reminder for day 6 of your free trial. If you decide not to continue, cancel at least 24 hours before the end date to avoid being charged $9.99.
Summary
Apple TV+ is currently airing its two highest-rated shows of the year, making this the ideal moment to dive into the platform. By following the steps above — subscribing, locating the series, streaming with optimal settings, and staying updated on new episodes — you’ll experience top-tier entertainment. Avoid common pitfalls like trial mismanagement or ignoring external reviews, and you’ll be set for an exceptional summer of viewing. Don’t wait; these shows are airing right now.