Substack launches TV app for Apple TV and Google TV
It comes as the platform looks to move its long-form subscription model beyond mobile and desktop screens.
Substack has officially entered the connected TV space, launching a new Substack TV app for Apple TV and Google TV, as the creator platform looks to extend its long-form subscription model beyond mobile and desktop screens.
The move gives Substack’s growing video and livestream ecosystem a new home in the living room, positioning the company as a creator-first challenger in the increasingly crowded connected TV market.
In an announcement posted to Substack's blog, the company said the TV app is designed for creators who already publish video, with no additional work required to appear on the platform.
Existing video posts and livestreams will automatically be available to subscribers who log in to the app.
At launch, users can watch video posts and livestreams from the creators and publications they already follow, browse a “For You” row highlighting subscribed and recommended content, and access dedicated pages for each subscription to explore more videos.
Both free and paid subscribers can sign in, with viewing access matched to their current subscription level. While previews of paid content for free users are not yet available, Substack says that feature is planned for a future update.
The platform describes the initial release as focused on reliable, high-quality viewing, with further features to be added over time based on audience behaviour.
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Independent media eyes the TV screen
For creators, the shift to TV opens up a new distribution channel that mirrors traditional broadcast and streaming environments, while preserving direct relationships with audiences.
Veteran journalist and former CNN anchor Jim Acosta, who hosts a daily news show using Substack’s live video feature, said the expansion marks a turning point for independent media.
“I’m excited to report the Substack revolution will be televised,” Acosta said.
“This is a game-changing moment for the rise of independent media. Substack has proven that legacy media consumers are not only searching for fresh alternatives; they are finding them.”
The app will expand its capabilities over time, with Substack confirming upcoming features including audio posts and read-alouds, improved search and discovery, previews of paid content, in-app upgrades to paid subscriptions, and dedicated sections for shows within a single publication.
As subscription video continues to grow across connected TVs, Substack’s move places its creators into the same viewing environment as global streaming giants, but with a model built around independence, ownership and direct audience relationships.
