07 October 2010
How do I set up a US iTunes account?
Seeing as the new Apple TV has just been released and is winging its way to lucky TV addicts around the globe, it's only a matter of time before this question crops up again.
The Apple TV is a lovely device, but content selection outside of the USA stinks. In some cases, it's non-existent. So, let's show you how to set up an account, which will let you get the most entertainment out of your new toy…
Buying USA gift cards online:
A lot of people recommend eBay, and that's a completely valid way of getting your hands on a US gift card. Me, I prefer using a site called Jerry Cards. Simply purchase the desired amount of iTunes credit and they will email the redemption code to you.
Setting up a US iTunes account:
I've read that it's possible to set up an account without the use of a gift card, but seeing as you're going to be purchasing / renting on your Apple TV, this way will work just fine for you.
- Sign out of your iTunes Store account by clicking on your username in the top-right corner of iTunes.
- Once you're signed out, scroll down to the bottom of the iTunes window and look for the round flag, which shows the country whose store you are currently viewing.
- Click on the flag and you'll be brought to a list of all of the different iTunes stores. Click on the USA flag.
- After the USA store loads up, click the Redeem link in the Quick Links box in the top right corner of the screen.
- Enter the code from your gift card in the field provided and then hit the Redeem button.
- You should now be prompted to sign in or create a new account. Click on Create a New Account and follow the steps. You'll need to use an email address that has not previously been used as an iTunes account - if you don't have a spare email address, you can sign up for a Gmail account.
- Fill in the info until you hit the address entry screen. You'll need to do a quick bit of Googling to find a valid US address. This address won't be validated, so feel free to pick a hotel address, or use the address of a relative, like I did.
- Follow the rest of the registration process - you should reach the end without any issues. Congrats, you now have a US iTunes account with some $$$ to spend!
- Enter your new login info into your Apple TV and start renting!