UPDATE: Apple TV+ is experiencing a remarkable surge in viewership for July 2025, driven by popular sci-fi series like Foundation and Severance. New data reveals that the platform is capturing a growing share of total TV time, reflecting a strategic focus on high-quality, original content.
According to analytics from 9to5Mac, 46% of U.S. TV time was dominated by streaming in June 2025, with Apple TV+ showing significant gains. Posts on X from analytics accounts indicate that “Foundation” consistently held the No. 1 spot throughout late July, closely followed by “Severance” and emerging titles like “Murderbot.” This trend highlights Apple’s success in engaging viewers through genre-blending narratives that resonate with audiences.
The popularity of “Foundation,” based on Isaac Asimov’s works, not only led to chart-topping status but also drove strong viewer retention. With rumors of a renewal swirling, binge-watching soared as fans immersed themselves in its expansive world-building. Us Weekly named it a must-watch for July, showcasing its appeal during a season when viewership typically dips.
“Severance,” exploring the complexities of work-life balance, also saw increased interest as production updates for its second season circulated. This uptick is evident in its metrics on FlixPatrol, which tracked its performance in global TOP 10 charts for July 29, 2025.
Despite the focus on series, Apple TV+ films like “The Wild Ones” also gained traction, blending adventure with social commentary. According to TV Guide, these releases helped maintain momentum for Apple TV+ in the competitive streaming landscape.
The surge in popularity reflects Apple’s aggressive push into premium content amid fierce competition from Netflix and YouTube. Together, these rivals commanded over 20% of U.S. TV time in July 2024. High critical acclaim for Apple TV+ series, with an average Tomatometer score above 80% on Rotten Tomatoes, is fostering organic word-of-mouth growth.
Industry insiders are taking note of Apple’s strategic use of star power, with actors like Adam Scott in “Severance” bolstering viewer loyalty. However, challenges persist, including viewership fragmentation across platforms. July’s programming lineup, including the final season of “Acapulco,” will test Apple’s ability to convert buzz into subscriptions.
Looking ahead, the insights from July will shape Apple’s pipeline, with productions like “Ted Lasso” season 4 and “Silo” season 4 set for late 2025. This forward momentum positions Apple TV+ to challenge established players by doubling down on original content.
As reported by Newsweek, Apple TV+ bundles, including Apple One, likely boosted subscriber retention in July, countering churn rates seen in rival services. With the latest Nielsen data indicating streaming’s rise to 44.8% in May 2025, Apple is strategically enhancing its market share.
In summary, Apple TV+’s impressive July performance marks a critical moment in the streaming landscape. With a focus on quality content and engaging narratives, the platform is emerging as a significant contender. As viewership continues to evolve, July’s successes provide a roadmap for balancing critically acclaimed offerings with mass appeal. The industry is watching closely as Apple TV+ sets the stage for even more ambitious projects in the coming months.
