Apple TV executives are celebrating a record-breaking year after delivering some of 2025’s biggest hits. Among the standout successes was F1: The Movie, which raced past expectations with over $630 million in box-office revenue. The platform also announced season three of Severance, a psychological thriller that has become a global phenomenon.
In a new interview with Screen International, Apple’s senior vice president of Services Eddy Cue, and Worldwide Video chiefs Zack Van Amburg and Jamie Erlicht, reflected on the company’s journey and future ambitions.
Human Stories Drive Apple Originals
When asked what defines an Apple Original, Van Amburg said the focus isn’t on formulas but on emotional impact.
“The interesting thing for us at Apple is we want movies to come out differently,” he explained. “We want them to resonate more deeply and thoughtfully with audiences.”
He emphasized that humanity remains at the center of Apple’s creative philosophy — a principle shared across its products, from hardware to storytelling. This human-first approach, he said, guides how Apple connects technology with emotion.
Expanding Lineup in 2026
Looking ahead, Apple TV aims to build on its success with a busy 2026 lineup. “We have a new original nearly every single week,” Van Amburg revealed. “Our audience has spoken about what they love, and delivering that alongside new experiences is a fun challenge.”
While many streaming platforms have introduced ad-supported tiers, Cue confirmed that Apple has no such plans for now. He added that Apple’s recent decision to drop the “+” from its brand reflects its growth. “We’ve always called it Apple TV,” he said. “With all the content we now offer, it just made sense to keep it simple.”
Awards and Industry Recognition
Apple TV’s achievements extend beyond audience numbers. The company earned four Grammy nominations this year, with recognition for music from F1: The Movie and Severance.
As 2026 approaches, Apple TV shows no signs of slowing down. With a people-first vision and a steady stream of original content, the platform continues to strengthen its position in global streaming.
