Surfshark is the newest virtual private network (VPN) provider to release an app for Apple TV. A VPN encrypts your outgoing data, ensuring that no one can view your online activities, such as the websites you visit. It also prevents your ISP from being able to throttle your data while you stream on your TV.
“The main reason for using a VPN for Apple TV is to protect your online privacy,” writes Surfshark in a blog post discussing the new app. “The data gathered in your viewing activity can also be used by online criminals to carry out elaborate phishing campaigns. Using a VPN can protect your data as well as give you peace of mind.”
For a long time, Apple TVs didn’t support native VPN apps. While you could still connect a VPN to your Apple TV through your router or a smart DNS tool, it was complicated and required users to jump through frustrating hurdles. Fortunately, the tvOS 17 update released in September 2023 changed the App Store to allow users to download third-party VPN apps.
Soon after, companies began competing to release VPN apps for Apple TV quickly enough to secure a larger portion of Apple’s user base.
The long-awaited day is finally here!” Surfshark writes. “It’s also extra exciting to deliver this update, as many Apple TV users have been eagerly awaiting it. The wait is over — secure watching starts now!’
The Surfshark app is available to download for anyone, but you will need a subscription to use it. If you’re already a Surfshark subscriber, simply download the app from the App Store on your TV and log into your account.
ExpressVPN released its Apple TV app in December 2023, greatly simplifying the connection process. Other top VPNs that have Apple TV apps include PureVPN, IPVanish, and NordVPN. PureVPN created an Apple TV app ahead of time to release its VPN app on the same day that the update went live.