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Apple did offer free access to Apple TV+ from January 3 through January 5, 2025, but that promotion has expired. Apple described it as a global all-access preview for people with an Apple ID, available on supported devices in markets where Apple TV+ was offered.
What Apple announced
Apple announced the promotion on December 30, 2024, describing it as an all-access pass to Apple TV+ for the first weekend of 2025. It was more than a free episode or the service’s separate seven-day trial for new subscribers. Apple’s announcement is the primary source for the offer’s dates and terms.
When did the free access run?
Apple’s press release specified January 3 through January 5, 2025. Some coverage and an Apple social-media graphic highlighted January 4–5, which caused confusion. The press release gives the fuller official window; Apple’s announcement was also consistent about the January 3–5 dates in its U.K. version.
Who was eligible?
Apple said an Apple ID was required and presented the preview as available around the world wherever Apple TV+ was available. That does not mean every country had identical terms or an identical catalog: access depended on local service availability, and content could vary by territory.
#1 Best Overall
- HD streaming made simple: With America’s number 1 TV streaming platform,* exploring popular apps—plus tons of free movies, shows, and live TV—is as easy as it is fun. *Based on hours streamed—Hypothesis Group
- Compact without compromises: The sleek design of Roku Streaming Stick won’t block neighboring HDMI ports, and it even powers from your TV alone, plugging into the back and staying out of sight. No wall outlet, no extra cords, no clutter.
- No more juggling remotes: Power up your TV, adjust the volume, and control your Roku device with one remote. Use your voice to quickly search, play entertainment, and more.
- Shows on the go: Take your TV to-go when traveling—without needing to log into someone else’s device.
- TV, simplified: With setup that only takes minutes, a simple-to-navigate Home Screen, and an uncluttered remote control that does all you need—Roku makes it easier to watch the TV you love.
Apple’s announcement confirms the Apple ID requirement, but it does not establish whether every sign-in flow asked for payment details. The free preview should not be confused with a separate trial or subscription offer presented during account setup; check the terms and renewal details shown on any current signup screen.
What could viewers watch?
Apple promoted the preview with examples from its programming, including the following titles. They are examples Apple highlighted, not a complete catalog list or a guarantee that each title was available in every market.
Rank #2
- 4K streaming made simple:With America’s number 1 TV streaming platform,* exploring popular apps—plus tons of free movies, shows, and live TV—is as easy as it is fun. *Based on hours streamed—Hypothesis Group
- 4K picture quality: With Roku Streaming Stick Plus, watch your favorites with brilliant 4K picture and vivid HDR color.
- Compact without compromises: Our sleek design won’t block neighboring HDMI ports, and it even powers from your TV alone, plugging into the back and staying out of sight. No wall outlet, no extra cords, no clutter.
- No more juggling remotes: Power up your TV, adjust the volume, and control your Roku device with one remote. Use your voice to quickly search, play entertainment, and more.
- Shows on the go: Take your TV to-go when traveling—without needing to log into someone else’s device.
- Drama and thrillers: Silo, Bad Sisters, Presumed Innocent, Slow Horses, Disclaimer, The Morning Show and Severance.
- Science fiction: Dark Matter, For All Mankind and Foundation.
- Comedy: Shrinking and Ted Lasso.
- Films: Fly Me to the Moon, The Family Plan, Wolfs and The Instigators.
Where could people watch?
Apple said viewers could use the Apple TV app or tv.apple.com on supported devices and platforms. Its announcement listed iPhone and iPad, Mac, Apple TV 4K, Apple Vision Pro, select Samsung, LG, Sony, VIZIO and TCL smart TVs, Roku, Amazon Fire TV devices, Chromecast with Google TV, PlayStation, Xbox, and Windows PCs through the web. Support was not universal across every device from those brands, and availability can change; Apple’s list describes the 2025 offer.
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No. The preview ended after January 5, 2025. Continued viewing required a paid Apple TV subscription or another qualifying arrangement. The announcement invited viewers to subscribe after the preview and referred them to promotion terms, but it does not establish that participation in the free weekend automatically converted into a paid subscription.
Rank #3
- 4K High Dynamic Range (Dolby Vision and HDR10) for stunning picture quality
- Dolby Digital Plus 7.1 surround sound
- A10X Fusion chip for ultra-fast graphics and performance
- Voice search by asking the Siri Remote
The same announcement listed a U.S. price of $12.99 per month and a seven-day trial for new subscribers at the time. Those were December 2024 U.S. terms, not verified current prices or terms. Anyone considering a present-day signup should check Apple’s displayed local price, eligibility, and renewal conditions rather than rely on an old promotion.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Can you still claim the free weekend?
No. The January 2025 window is over, so an old article or social post describing it cannot be used to redeem access now. This article does not verify a replacement free weekend or current promotional terms. Check Apple’s official service or app for offers available in your country, and review the conditions before accepting any trial or bundle.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Upgrade your TV, instantly – Fire TV Stick HD is our fastest HD streaming stick ever, with a streamlined navigation that jumps straight to your movies, shows, and live TV. Take your entertainment on the go with the new ultra-portable profile. And watch it all come to life with crisp Full HD and Wi-Fi 6 support.
- The newest Fire TV experience (2026) – Our biggest update to Fire TV has a new, modern design that gets you to your entertainment fast. Browse dedicated content categories, pin more of your favorite apps, and get personalized recommendations from Alexa+. Spend less time scrolling, and more time watching.
- All your apps in one place – Prime Video, Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, Apple TV, HBO Max, Hulu, Peacock, Paramount+, and thousands more. It’s easy to find what to watch from hundreds of thousands of movies and TV episodes, including free, ad-supported content. Subscription fees may apply.
- Our most portable stick – Thin and light, without extra clutter. Connects directly to your TV's HDMI port without blocking other ports.
- Easier than ever to set up – Now with Direct Power, it's powered by your TV with the included USB-C cable and eliminates the need for a wall adapter.
Rank #4
- Advanced 4K streaming - Elevate your entertainment with the next generation of our best-selling 4K stick, with improved streaming performance optimized for 4K TVs.
- The newest Fire TV experience (2026) – Our biggest update to Fire TV has a new, modern design that gets you to your entertainment fast. Browse dedicated content categories, pin more of your favorite apps, and get personalized recommendations from Alexa+. Spend less time scrolling, and more time watching.
- Cloud gaming, no console required – Stream Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, Hogwarts Legacy, Outer Worlds 2, Ninja Gaiden 4, and hundreds of games on your Fire TV Stick 4K Select with Xbox Game Pass and Luna via cloud gaming. Xbox Game Pass subscription and compatible controller required. Each sold separately.
- Smarter picks with Alexa+ – Getting to what you love has never been easier. Press the voice remote button and talk naturally to find what to watch across your apps, manage your smart home, or dive into virtually any topic.
- Wi-Fi 6 support - Enjoy smooth 4K streaming, even when other devices are connected to your router.
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