Apple TV+ Breaks Into the Top 5 for the First Time With ‘Severance’

For years, Apple TV+ has chased streaming giants like Netflix and Prime Video, trying to prove it belongs in the same league. Now, halfway through 2025, it finally has a win to show off.

According to Nielsen data reported by Bloomberg, Severance Season 2 has become one of the top five most-watched streaming shows in the U.S. for the first half of the year. That’s a first for Apple’s streaming service—and a big one.

Let’s dive into the numbers and why this matters.

Nielsen’s Top 10 Most-Streamed Original Series (H1 2025)

The list is based on total minutes viewed on U.S. devices, combining connected TVs and other screens. Here’s how the top 10 shaped up:

Apple’s First-Ever Top 5 Streaming Hit

This might seem like just another chart, but for Apple, it’s a major milestone. For the first time ever, one of its shows—Severance—has broken into the top five most-streamed series in the U.S. That’s big, especially considering even Apple’s other heavy-hitters like Ted Lasso and Silo never reached that level.

What makes it even more impressive? Apple TV+ has far fewer subscribers than Netflix or Prime Video. So for Severance to rack up those viewing minutes, it had to punch well above its weight. It’s a clear sign that Apple’s massive $20 billion investment in original content is starting to pay off.

However, Severance is Apple TV+’s only entry on the list. No other Apple original made the cut. It’s a breakthrough, but also a reminder: Apple needs more hits like this to stay competitive.

Netflix Still Rules, But It’s Slipping

Even with four shows in the top 10—including Squid Game, The Night Agent, Ginny & Georgia, and You—Netflix isn’t as dominant as it once was.

• Netflix’s share has declined. Back in 2021, its titles made up over 80% of the most-streamed list. In 2025, that’s dropped to just under 50%.
• Others are catching up. Amazon, Apple, Hulu, Paramount+, and Max all have strong contenders this year.
• Surprisingly, Disney+ is missing entirely. Not a single Disney+ original cracked the top 10.

Looking Ahead for Apple TV+

Severance has already been renewed for Season 3, which could help Apple maintain momentum next year. But unless it launches more breakout hits, Apple risks falling off the radar again.

Meanwhile, Apple’s F1 movie is crushing it at the box office, and the company is reportedly eyeing exclusive streaming rights for Formula 1 races. If that deal goes through, Apple TV+ could move beyond niche status and become a serious contender.

For now, Severance stands tall as the win Apple TV+ badly needed.

Also Read: What’s New on Apple TV+? Full List of Shows and Movies