From the support desk 2026-09

How do I launch Netflix or another app on my Apple TV from an Activity or button?

In short

App launching comes from the Apple TV's Companion device, not its AirPlay device. Make sure both Apple TV entries are in your Devices list. Then use the Companion device's .APPLICATION LAUNCH command and enter the app's tvOS bundle ID (for example com.netflix.Netflix) or a deep-link URL. For quick access without any setup, the Guide's Apps list launches any app installed on the Apple TV.

Two Apple TV devices, two jobs

Roomie controls an Apple TV through two integrations that are meant to be used together. The AirPlay device handles everyday remote control and Now Playing. The Companion device handles app launching and keyboard input. If your Apple TV's command list has no app launch option, you're looking at the AirPlay device, so add the Companion device too if it isn't already in your Devices list.

Adding an app launch to an Activity or button

In Activity Setup, or when editing a button, choose the Apple TV Companion device and pick .APPLICATION LAUNCH. It appears near the top of the command list under that technical name. Enter the app's bundle ID as the value, such as com.netflix.Netflix. A full deep-link URL also works for apps that support one.

One-tap tiles for your favorite apps

To put a single app on the Room Layout, create an Inline Activity whose command is the Companion device's .APPLICATION LAUNCH with that app's bundle ID, then add the Activity to the layout.

Launching without any setup

Open the Guide on the Apple TV remote in Roomie. Its Apps list is read from the Apple TV itself, so it shows exactly what's installed, and a tap launches the app.

Distilled from real support conversations, with details generalized. Every setup differs — if this doesn't resolve it, contact support with diagnostics.