Publishing platform Substack has introduced a new Substack TV app, now in beta for Apple TV and Google TV, extending the reach of video content from its creators to television screens. The app aims to create a more natural viewing environment for longform video and livestreams that many writers and publishers already produce on the platform.
Videos and Livestreams From Substack on TV
Substack, which began as a newsletter service that expanded into audio, video, and interactive features, now offers a dedicated TV experience that curates videos from the publications users subscribe to. This allows both free and paid subscribers to watch video posts and livestreams on large screens, making it easier to engage with content from creators they follow.
At launch, subscribers can:
- Watch video posts and livestreams from the creators and publications they follow.
- Browse a “For You” row that highlights videos from subscriptions and recommended content.
- Open individual subscription pages to explore more videos from specific creators.
Existing Substack video content automatically appears in the TV app for subscribers signed in with their accounts. Substack says more functionality will be added over time, including enhanced discovery, search, previews of paid content for free subscribers, and options to upgrade subscriptions directly within the app.
How to Get Started
To begin using Substack on TV, users can search for “Substack” in the Apple TV App Store or in the apps section of Google/Android TV, install it, and sign in. A QR code login process links the TV app to the user’s existing Substack account.
This launch reflects Substack’s broader strategy of supporting multimedia publishing—blending written newsletters, audio, video, and now TV streaming—within its ecosystem. The platform has steadily expanded its video tools, including livestreaming capabilities and mobile video features, to help creators connect with their audiences in more dynamic ways.
Mixed Reactions From the Community
While the TV app represents a new frontier for independent creators to share thought‑provoking video content in a familiar viewing format, not all reactions have been positive. Some writers and users have expressed concern that the company’s increasing emphasis on video and multimedia could distract from Substack’s original mission as a writing‑centric platform.
Nevertheless, the Substack TV app offers a fresh channel for creators who already incorporate video into their publications, potentially reaching broader audiences and offering a more engaging way to experience longform content beyond mobile and desktop screens.
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Staff Report
