Disney+ subscribers received an unexpected heads-up this week: starting December 1, 2025, the streaming service will no longer support certain older Apple devices. The news comes via an email from Disney+ to its members, though the message was frustratingly vague. The email didn’t specify which Apple devices are considered “old” or provide a clear cutoff for compatibility.Credit: AppleThe announcement has sparked discussions online, particularly on Reddit, where users are trying to determine exactly which devices will be affected. One user shared the email and asked, “Haven’t been able to find a list of devices that would be considered ‘obsolete’ as of yet. I do have some older 1st generation Apple TV 4K’s as well as I think maybe 2nd or 3rd generation Apple TV’s that haven’t been used in years. I never really saw a need to update to newer Apple TV’s as they work fine for what little TV we do watch on them. Has anyone else gotten this yet? If so, what devices are you logged in on that could be considered older?”Just got this email that some older Apple devices will no longer be supported. byu/Ancient_Ad7555 inDisneyPlusAnother user responded with similar concerns, reflecting the uncertainty among longtime Apple TV and iOS device owners. With the lack of an official list, subscribers are left guessing which devices may no longer allow access to Disney+.What We Know About CompatibilityAccording to a Google AI overview, Disney+ already has minimum operating system requirements for Apple devices. The latest version of the app requires iOS 16.5 or later for iPhones, iPadOS 15.3 or later for iPads, and tvOS 16 or later for Apple TV 4th generation and newer. For older Apple TVs, such as those preceding the 4th generation, Disney+ content can still be accessed via AirPlay from a newer Apple device or by mirroring the screen.This means that if your device cannot update to these versions of iOS, iPadOS, or tvOS, Disney+ will no longer function directly on that hardware after December 1. While exact device cutoff dates remain unclear, the implication is that first-generation Apple TVs and older iPhones or iPads that cannot upgrade to the required operating systems will be unable to run the app.For Disney+ subscribers who rely on older Apple devices as their primary streaming platform, this could mean a frustrating forced upgrade. Many users on Reddit expressed annoyance, noting that their older devices “work fine for what little TV we do watch on them” and that they have avoided upgrading because the old hardware was sufficient for casual viewing.Why This Change MattersCredit: Inside the MagicDisney+ has grown into one of the most popular streaming services worldwide, with a catalog spanning Disney classics, Pixar films, Marvel movies, Star Wars, National Geographic, and Disney Jr. programming. With the service continuing to release high-profile content and expand its offerings, maintaining app support on legacy devices can become increasingly difficult from a technical standpoint.The move also reflects a broader industry trend. Streaming services frequently phase out support for older hardware to ensure compatibility with new features, maintain security standards, and improve app performance. Disney+ appears to be aligning with that strategy as it prepares for ongoing growth and high-definition content delivery.Upcoming Disney+ ContentFor subscribers who are upgrading their devices—or simply planning their viewing schedules—Disney+ has a full slate of programming this November. Highlights include holiday-themed specials from Food Network, Marvel releases, and family-friendly series. Notable offerings include the MCU short film Fantastic Four: First Steps, the documentary Fire and Water: Making the Avatar Films, and new episodes of Disney Twisted-Wonderland and Me and Mickey: In the Clubhouse.Other upcoming titles include Madame Web, a LEGO Marvel Avengers special, and Seventeen: Our Chapter, along with seasonal series like Christmas Cookie Challenge and Holiday Baking Championship. Disney+ is also launching a “Seasons Streaming” feature on November 4, providing a run of Thanksgiving- and holiday-themed episodes and movies, while “Throwback” will offer a continuous feed of Disney content from 2010 and earlier starting November 5.How to Check Your DeviceSubscribers unsure about whether their Apple device will continue to support Disney+ after December 1 should check the current operating system version and determine whether it meets the minimum requirements listed above. If it doesn’t, viewers can still use workarounds like AirPlay from a newer device or screen mirroring, but direct app access will no longer be available.Community ReactionsThe Reddit thread shows a mixture of confusion and frustration among long-term Disney+ users. One member noted, “I never really saw a need to update to newer Apple TVs as they work fine,” while another suggested that Apple TV owners might need to consider upgrading their hardware if they want uninterrupted access to the streaming service.This move underscores how technological requirements are evolving in the streaming era. While Disney+ continues to expand its library and invest in exclusive content, some older devices simply won’t keep pace with the technical demands of modern streaming apps.Disney+’s decision to discontinue support for older Apple devices starting December 1, 2025, will likely affect a small but vocal portion of its subscriber base. While the exact list of obsolete devices hasn’t been published, users with first-generation Apple TV 4Ks, older Apple TVs, or iPhones and iPads unable to upgrade to iOS 16.5 or iPadOS 15.3 should take note. For anyone hoping to continue watching Disney+ seamlessly, an upgrade to a supported device or using AirPlay from a compatible device will be essential.The timing comes as Disney+ rolls out an exciting lineup for the holiday season, making it an important moment for subscribers to ensure their devices are up to date. With fan-favorite franchises, new Marvel content, and seasonal programming on the way, viewers will want to make sure they aren’t left behind due to hardware limitations.The post Disney Sends Mass Notice to Apple Users, Disney+ No Longer Functions on All Devices appeared first on Inside the Magic.