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Also, many movies are available in iTunes before they're in brick-and-mortar stores. They
typically cost $19.99, and are usually available to rent 30 days after release.
iTunes TV Shows
In iTunes, you can also purchase many TV shows, which typically cost $1.99 for standard-
definition episodes and $2.99 for high-definition (most episodes are available only in one
format or the other). However, the best deals come from purchasing an entire season. The
cost for a season varies but is always cheaper than buying individual episodes.
Additionally, you can purchase a Season Pass for currently airing seasons. Again, the cost
varies, but it is still cheaper than buying all the individual episodes one by one. You'll be no-
tifiedassoonasanewepisodebecomesavailableoniTunes,usuallyafewhoursafterairing.
When purchasing a Season Pass, be aware that some shows split seasons into two parts, so
you may be buying a pass for only half the season. This occurred during the final season of
AMC's
Breaking Bad
,leadingtooutragedfanssuingApple.Fortunately,Applegaverefunds
for the second half of the season.
Netflix
The subscription-based Netflix service streams movies and ad-free TV shows on demand,
startingat$7.99permonth.IfyousubscribetoonlyonepaidserviceontheAppleTV,Netflix
is your best bet, as it features a great stable of rotating content, as well as a growing collec-
tionofexclusives,suchastheEmmyaward-winning
House of Cards,
thecriticallyacclaimed
Orange Is the New Black,
and the fourth season of the resurrected
Arrested Development
.
YoucansignupdirectlythroughtheAppleTV,andifyou'reanewcustomer,thefirstmonth
is free. There are no contracts, and you can cancel any time.
Netflix is accessible in North and South America, and parts of northern Europe. For details,
consult
Where is Netflix available?
, on the Netflix FAQ page.
Tip:
Having streaming problems on your Apple TV? Netflix has a built-in testing tool.
Search for
Example Short 23.976
and play the video. The test video displays the
current bit rate, resolution, and aspect ratio. If you see a low bit rate, restarting your
wireless gateway and cable/DSL modem could help.
Hulu Plus
Available in the United States and Japan, Hulu is a joint venture of NBC, Fox, and ABC to
