The Apple TV app on Windows 11 allows you to watch purchased movies, TV shows, and Apple TV+ content in a modern interface. Many users also want to import their own movies or video files into the Apple TV app, especially if they previously used iTunes on Windows.
It’s important to understand that the Apple TV app on Windows 11 has specific limitations when it comes to local video imports. Unlike iTunes, the Apple TV app is primarily designed for streaming and purchased content. However, you can still add and manage personal videos using supported workflows that integrate with the Apple ecosystem.
What Types of Videos Can Be Imported or Accessed
The Apple TV app handles content in specific ways.
- Purchased or rented movies appear automatically
- Apple TV+ content streams directly
- Home videos require Apple-supported workflows
- Unsupported formats will not appear
For local videos, format compatibility is critical.
Supported Video Formats for Apple TV
Apple recommends using these formats.
- MP4 (H.264 or H.265 / HEVC)
- MOV
- M4V
Videos in other formats may need conversion before import.
How to Import Movies and Videos to the Apple TV App in Windows 11
Follow the methods below depending on your use case.
1. Import Videos Using iTunes Library (Most Reliable Method)
The Apple TV app on Windows 11 still reads content added via the iTunes-style media library.
1. Install and Open iTunes (If Not Already Installed)
Although Apple TV replaces playback, iTunes is still required for importing.
- Download and install iTunes from Microsoft Store
- Open iTunes and sign in with your Apple ID
2. Add Movies or Videos to iTunes Library
- In iTunes, click File
- Select Add File to Library or Add Folder to Library
- Choose your movie or video files
- Wait for iTunes to add them
Make sure videos appear under Movies or Home Videos.
3. Open the Apple TV App on Windows 11
- Click Start and open Apple TV
- Sign in with the same Apple ID used in iTunes
4. Access Imported Videos in Apple TV App
- Go to Library
- Select Movies or Home Videos
- Look for your imported content
The Apple TV app automatically detects videos added through the library.
2. Sync Videos Using iCloud (Limited Use Case)
If you want access across devices.
Enable iCloud Sync for Video Content
- Open iTunes
- Go to Account > Settings
- Enable iCloud-related sync options if available
- Allow time for syncing
Not all home videos sync to iCloud automatically.
3. Convert Videos to Apple-Compatible Format (If Needed)
If your videos do not appear. Convert Unsupported Video Formats
- Use a trusted video converter
- Convert videos to MP4 (H.264 or HEVC)
- Keep resolution and bitrate reasonable
- Re-add converted videos to the library
Unsupported codecs are a common reason videos don’t show up.
Final Thoughts
Importing movies and videos into the Apple TV app on Windows 11 works best when you use the legacy iTunes library method and supported video formats. While the Apple TV app is not designed as a full local media player, it can still display and play your personal videos when added correctly.
For users with large local video collections, converting files to Apple-supported formats and managing them through the media library ensures the smoothest experience.
