Move over Netflix and HBO – This little streamer is quietly gaining viewers before 2026
Whenever someone asks, “What is the best streaming service?” ”, chances are Netflix or HBO Max will usually be in the conversation. After all, without Netflix, streaming wouldn’t be a thing – not to mention HBO Max which offers must-watch TV shows like The Pitt. It turns out that one streamer has quietly dominated these two giants in 2025. According to Television Stats, Apple TV is currently the highest ranked network.
Apple TV’s dominance might surprise some. After all, it’s usually only available on Apple devices, and most people who sign up only do so for a three-month free trial. So why has it overtaken streaming giants like Netflix and HBO Max? The answer lies in its programmingparticularly in the way people engage with it. The response to shows like To many And Breakup shows that Apple TV has found its stride and more streamers should take note.
Apple TV keeps viewers engaged with its programming
Whether you’re a fan of Apple TV shows or not, one thing is clear: they make people talk. Take Ted Lasso, For example. The football sitcom attracted viewers thanks to the positive attitude of Jason Put it onIt is titular character, not to mention the timing of its premiere during the first year of COVID. As a result, viewers who fell in love with the series recommended it to friends and family, who returned season after season and will likely return for season 4. It’s a reminder of how television worked before the rise of streaming services; if you find a show you like, you keep watching it.
Compare that with HBO Max andnotably Netflix, who often rely on big hits to retain viewers. While Netflix rose to prominence thanks to Stranger Things And Squid gameit frequently cancels TV shows that can’t match those series’ stats. Not only does this mean that many big shows are being axed before they have a chance to thrive, but it also raises questions about why Netflix viewers should continue to invest in the service when they never know if a show will be renewed. In comparison, Apple TV offers a steady lineup of programming to keep viewers coming back.
This sense of stability is essential now that streamers and studios we cut return to original programming become profitable. Usually, this means subscription prices will skyrocket as Netflix users have seen the latest in a series of price hikes. Apple TV, on the other hand, has a solid price of $12.99, which seems like a better investment since you’ll get more consistent programming. There has been another significant change in Apple TV’s offerings that has led to its current rise to the top.
The Duffer Brothers Leaving Netflix Might Be the Biggest TV Streaming Plot Twist Yet
With their top creatives gone, can Netflix adapt and survive in the new world of streaming?
With strong sci-fi shows, Apple TV finally has a way to attract subscribers
Most streamers rely on a unique angle to attract and potentially keep subscribers. Paramount+ mainly relied on Taylor Sheridan and the Star Trek universe, Disney+ has Marvel and Star Wars, and Netflix has Stranger things. It took Apple TV a while to find its niche, but it’s now clear that science fiction is its sweet spot. In addition to To many And Breakup attracting rave reviews and audiences, there is also Foundation, which brings the epic scale of Isaac Asimovthe novels of on screen; Sugarwhich presents an exceptional performance of Colin Farrell and a breathtaking twist that has to be seen to be believed; And Seewhich presents Jason Momoa like a blind warrior.
Apple TV also avoids the “ten hour movie” trap, because his TV shows actually look like TV shows. Each episode moves the narrative forward while keeping viewers hooked. It’s a far cry from how the final season of Stranger Things was fragmented, or how The last of us faced creative upheavals. It wouldn’t be surprising if Apple TV took the example of Netflix as a model streamer, as it has found the recipe for success.
