Substack, best known as a platform for newsletters and longform writing, has officially entered the living room. The company has launched a TV app in beta for Apple TV and Google TV, allowing subscribers to watch video posts and livestreams created by authors on its platform.
The move marks a significant step in Substack’s growing emphasis on video, as it looks to compete more directly with creator-focused platforms such as YouTube and Patreon.
What the Substack TV App Offers
The new TV app is designed to make video content more discoverable and accessible on larger screens. It includes a TikTok-style “For You” row, which highlights videos from Substack creators, along with personalized recommendations.
Both free and paid subscribers can access the app, with viewing options determined by subscription tier. Substack has also confirmed plans to introduce paid content previews for free users in future updates.
Planned Features and Future Updates
Substack says the TV app is just the beginning. Upcoming features are expected to include:
- Audio posts and read-aloud versions of content
- Improved search and discovery tools
- In-app upgrades to paid subscriptions
- Dedicated sections for individual publications, allowing subscribers to browse all videos from a specific creator
These additions aim to create a more immersive, media-rich experience for subscribers.
Part of a Broader Video Strategy
The TV app launch aligns with Substack’s broader investment in video and livestreaming. The company introduced video posts in 2022, followed by video monetization tools in early 2024. Livestreaming capabilities were rolled out to all publishers around the same time.
In March 2025, Substack also launched a short-form, TikTok-like video feed within its mobile app, signaling a clear shift toward visual and live content.
In its announcement, Substack framed the TV app as a natural extension of its mission, stating that longform video and livestreams deserve a dedicated place where viewers can engage for longer periods.
Mixed Reactions From the Community
Despite Substack’s enthusiasm, the response from parts of its creator community has been divided. Comments on the company’s announcement blog post reveal concerns that the platform may be drifting away from its roots in writing.
Some users urged Substack to prioritize the written word, while others questioned whether the move reflects a broader, venture capital-driven push rather than creator demand.
A Growing Trend Toward the Living Room
Substack is not alone in expanding to TV platforms. Other social and creator-focused companies are also exploring the TV experience, including Instagram, which recently introduced IG for TV to bring Reels to devices like Amazon Fire TV.
As creator platforms continue to evolve, Substack’s TV app represents a bold experiment—one that could redefine how its audience consumes content, while also testing how far the platform can expand beyond newsletters without alienating its core users.
