Apple Product Placement: Where Tech Meets Entertainment


Have you ever noticed how often Apple products pop up in your favorite movies and TV shows? It’s not just a coincidence. Recent research from BrandTrack.Pro shows Apple is a top player when it comes to product placement in entertainment. Let’s look at how Apple makes its mark on the screen and what this might mean for its marketing strategy.

Top 30 Brands Featured in Movies & TV Shows 2023
Top 30 Brands Featured in Movies & TV Shows 2023

Is Apple Targeting Specific Genres?

Interestingly, there’s no strong link between Apple product placements and high-rated or heavily voted content on IMDb. Instead of focusing solely on top-rated titles, Apple might be honing in on specific genres or types of content that resonate with its audience. Think about it: Apple’s sleek and modern devices are a natural fit in tech-focused thrillers, dramas, and shows about technology and business. This could mean Apple is deliberately choosing these genres to align with its innovative brand image and target tech-savvy viewers.

Widespread Visibility Across Titles

Despite the weak correlation with high ratings, Apple products seem to be everywhere. This suggests Apple is employing a broad strategy to keep its products visible across various types of content. By doing this, Apple can maximize its reach, tapping into different audience demographics. So whether you’re watching a family drama, a tech thriller, or a feel-good comedy, there’s a good chance you’ll spot an Apple device.

Apple’s Most Featured Products on Screen

2023 Apple Product Placements in Movies & TV Series
2023 Apple Product Placements in Movies & TV Series

So, which Apple products are getting the most screen time? According to BrandTrack.Pro, here are the top five:

1. MacBook – Often seen in offices and homes, symbolizing productivity and creativity.
2. iPhone – A popular choice for characters needing to communicate or capture the moment.
3. iMac – Frequently featured in tech-savvy environments, like design studios and corporate settings.
4. iPad – Often used in educational settings or by characters needing a portable device.
5. Apple Watch – Appearing on the wrists of active and health-conscious characters.

Top-Rated TV Shows Featuring Apple Products

Curious about which high-rated TV shows feature Apple products? Here are some of the top IMDb-rated series where Apple devices make an appearance:

“Succession”: Apple Is Part of the Family Drama

Example: Apple-iPhone-Smartphone-of-Jeremy-Strong-as-Kendall-Roy-in-Succession-S04E05-Kill-List-2023

“Succession” takes you into the cutthroat world of the Roy family, who run a global media empire. As the family battles for power, Apple devices are a constant presence in every episode. Whether it’s Kendall Roy (Jeremy Strong) using an iPhone to strategize or a MacBook on a desk during a tense meeting, Apple products subtly underscore the show’s modern corporate atmosphere.

“Fargo”: Apple Devices in a World of Crime

Example: Apple MacBook Laptop in Fargo S05E09

In “Fargo,” Apple makes fewer appearances, but they are still there. Season 5, Episode 9 (“The Useless Hand”) features a MacBook laptop in a scene. The iPhone and MacBook add a touch of the familiar to the series’ otherwise offbeat and grim narrative.

“Ted Lasso”: Over 100 Apple Product Placements!

Example: Apple MacBook Laptops in Ted Lasso S03E11

If there’s one show where Apple products truly shine, it’s “Ted Lasso.” From iPhones to MacBooks, there have been over 100 Apple product placements from Season 1 to Season 3. Given the show’s popularity, it’s likely that Apple devices will continue to be a star in the upcoming fourth season.

“The Last of Us”: A Blast from the Past with Apple

Example: Apple iMac G3 Computer in The Last of Us S01E06

“The Last of Us” isn’t your typical setting for an Apple product, but even in a post-apocalyptic world, an Apple iMac G3 shows up. In Season 1, Episode 6 (“Kin”), the retro computer makes a unique appearance, adding a layer of nostalgia amidst the chaos.

“This Is Us”: Apple Devices Connect Families

Example: Apple iPhone Smartphone of Sterling K. Brown as Randall Pearson in This Is Us S06E07

In “This Is Us,” Apple devices are ever-present throughout the series. The Pearson family uses iPhones frequently to communicate, adding a sense of modern connectivity to their heartfelt story.

“Yellowstone”: Modern Tech on the Ranch

Example: Apple MacBook Laptop Computer Used by Kelly Reilly as Beth Dutton in Yellowstone S04E07

“Yellowstone,” a series about a Montana ranching family, might seem an unlikely place for tech gadgets. Yet, Apple makes its mark here too. A MacBook laptop used by Beth Dutton (Kelly Reilly) in Season 4, Episode 7 (“Keep the Wolves Close”) seamlessly integrates modern technology into this rugged, rural setting.

“Black Mirror”: A Future with Apple

Example: Apple iPhone – Black Mirror

In a show that speculates about the dark side of technology, “Black Mirror” naturally includes Apple devices. In Season 6, Episode 2 (“Loch Henry”), the iPhone is featured, reflecting the show’s theme of technology’s pervasive impact on our lives.

“Line of Duty”: Apple in Crime Investigation

Example: Apple iPhone Smartphone of Vicky McClure as Detective Inspector Kate Fleming in Line of Duty

“Line of Duty” follows a police anti-corruption unit, and Apple products are right there in the mix. The show features the iPhone being used by key characters, like Detective Inspector Kate Fleming (Vicky McClure).

“The Bear”: Culinary Drama with a Side of Apple

Example: Apple iPhone Smartphone of Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Richard ‘Richie' Jerimovich in The Bear S02E07

In “The Bear,” an iPhone shows up in Season 2, Episode 7 (“Forks”), adding a modern touch to the show’s depiction of the chaotic life in a family-owned sandwich shop. Apple devices appear frequently, reinforcing the show’s contemporary setting.

“What We Do in the Shadows”: Vampires and MacBooks

Example: Apple MacBook Laptop in What We Do in the Shadows TV Episode

Even in a comedy about vampires, Apple devices make an appearance. In Season 4, Episode 8 (“Go Flip Yourself”), a MacBook is cleverly woven into the storyline, proving that Apple is everywhere—even in the supernatural!

“Heartstopper”: Young Love and Apple Laptops

Example: Apple MacBook Laptop of Kit Connor as Nick Nelson in Heartstopper TV Show

“Heartstopper,” a show about young love and friendship, features Apple products too. In Season 1, Episode 3 (“Kiss”), a MacBook plays a small but notable role, fitting right in with the show’s youthful vibe.

“Wentworth”: Apple in Prison Drama

Example: Apple iMac Computer Used by Robbie Magasiva as Will Jackson in Wentworth S08E10

“Wentworth” offers a gritty look into prison life, and even here, Apple products pop up. An iMac is used by Will Jackson (Robbie Magasiva) in Season 8, Episode 10 (“Enemy Within”), blending technology with the show’s intense drama.

“Atlanta”: Hip-Hop and Apple

Example: Apple MacBook Laptop of Donald Glover as Earnest ‘Earn' Marks in Atlanta TV Show

“Atlanta,” known for its unique blend of comedy and drama, also features Apple products. Donald Glover’s character Earn uses a MacBook in Season 4, Episode 6 (“Crank Dat Killer”), highlighting the tech-savvy nature of the show’s characters.

“Mr Inbetween”: Apple’s Role in Crime and Comedy

Example: Apple iPhone Smartphone of Chika Yasumura as Brittany in Mr Inbetween TV Show

“Mr Inbetween,” a dark comedy about a hitman balancing crime and family life, shows an iPhone being used by Ray’s daughter, Brittany, in Season 3, Episode 1 (“Coulda Shoulda”). Apple’s presence adds a modern contrast to the show’s gritty narrative.

“Bosch”: Investigating with iPhones

In “Bosch,” a detective series, Apple devices appear frequently. Maddie Bosch (Madison Lintz) uses an iPhone in Season 7, Episode 5 (“Jury’s Still Out”), showing that even in crime investigation, Apple is a tool of choice.

Example: Apple iPhone Smartphone of Madison Lintz as Maddie Bosch in Bosch TV Show

Top-Rated Movies with Apple Products

Apple products are not just limited to the small screen; they also make their mark in big blockbuster films. Here are some of the highest-rated movies featuring Apple devices:

Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021): Apple’s Secret Cameo

Example: Apple iPhone Smartphone Held by Actor in Spider-Man- No Way Home (2021)

In the Marvel hit “Spider-Man: No Way Home,” Apple makes a notable appearance. With Spider-Man’s identity revealed, Peter Parker’s life turns chaotic. Amid the chaos, a character is seen taking photos of Spider-Man on the street using an Apple iPhone.

Gone Girl (2014): The MacBook Mystery

Example: Apple MacBook Box Held by Rosamund Pike as Amy Elliott Dunne in Gone Girl (2014)

“Gone Girl,” a thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat, features Apple in a more intense context. Rosamund Pike’s character, Amy Elliott Dunne, is seen holding a brand new Apple MacBook box. The film’s plot revolves around a mysterious disappearance and the media frenzy that ensues, with the Apple product subtly reinforcing the modern, media-centric theme of the movie.

CODA (2021): iPhones and Family Drama

Example: Apple iPhone Smartphone Used by Daniel Durant as Leo Rossi in CODA (2021)

“CODA” is a touching story of Ruby, the only hearing member in a deaf family, who grapples with pursuing her own dreams while supporting her family’s fishing business. Apple makes its appearance through an iPhone used by Daniel Durant’s character, Leo Rossi. The phone symbolizes connection and communication, a core element of this heartwarming narrative.

Past Lives (2023): MacBooks and Missed

Example: Apple Air MacBook Laptop Used by Greta Lee as Nora in Past Lives (2023)

“Past Lives” delves into the emotional reunion of two childhood friends, Nora and Hae Sung, who reconnect after two decades apart. In this reflective drama, Nora, played by Greta Lee, is seen using an Apple Air MacBook Laptop. The sleek, modern laptop fits the movie’s contemporary setting and adds to the portrayal of Nora’s character as she navigates her past and present.

John Wick: Chapter 4 (2023): iMacs in Action

Example: Apple iMac Computers in John Wick- Chapter 4

In “John Wick: Chapter 4,” the action is relentless as John Wick battles enemies and uncovers a path to defeat The High Table. The film features Apple iMac computers, which appear in various scenes. The use of these high-tech devices aligns well with the sophisticated and strategic elements of the movie’s plot.

Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One (2023): iPhones on a Mission

Example: Apple iPhone Smartphones in Mission- Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One (2023)

Ethan Hunt and his IMF team are back in “Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One,” and so are Apple iPhones.

Thirteen Lives (2022): MacBooks in a Race Against Time

Example: Apple MacBook Laptop in Thirteen Lives (2022)

“Thirteen Lives” is a gripping film about a daring rescue mission in Thailand. The movie prominently features an Apple MacBook laptop, seen in various rescue operation scenes. The MacBook’s presence reinforces the critical role of technology in coordinating and executing complex rescue operations.

What Happens Later (2023): Reconnecting with iPhones

Example: Apple iPhone Smartphone used by David Duchovny as Bill in What Happens Later (2023)

In “What Happens Later,” former lovers Willa and Bill reconnect unexpectedly when they find themselves stranded at an airport. Apple iPhones appear in several scenes, used by David Duchovny’s character, Bill. The iPhones add a relatable, real-world touch to the film’s exploration of rekindled relationships and unexpected encounters.

Quiz Lady (2023): Apple Tech Takes Center

Example: Apple iPhone Smartphone in Quiz Lady (2023)

“Quiz Lady” tells the story of two sisters who come together to pay off their mother’s gambling debts. The movie features both Apple iMacs and iPhones, reflecting the everyday technology used by its quirky characters.

BlackBerry (2023): An iMac in Enemy Territory

Example: Apple iMac Computer used by Rich Sommer as Paul Stannos in BlackBerry (2023)

While “BlackBerry” primarily chronicles the rise and fall of its namesake company, Apple still finds its way onto the screen. An Apple iMac computer is used by Rich Sommer’s character, Paul Stannos. This inclusion of an Apple product in a movie about its competitor is both ironic and insightful, showcasing the pervasive reach of Apple in our lives.

May December (2023): MacBook and Tabloid Turmoil

Example: Apple MacBook Laptop used by Natalie Portman Elizabeth in May December (2023) in her bedroom

“May December” features a complex narrative about a married couple dealing with their past when an actress arrives to research their story. Natalie Portman’s character, Elizabeth, is often seen using an Apple MacBook laptop.

Law Abiding Citizen (2009): Apple in the Justice

In “Law Abiding Citizen,” a man seeks justice on his own terms after a devastating legal failure. The film features multiple Apple laptops, used by Leslie Bibb as Sarah Lowell and Jamie Foxx as Nick Rice.

Example: Apple MacBook Laptop Used by Jamie Foxx as Nicholas ‘Nick' Rice in Law Abiding Citizen (2009)

Example: Apple Laptop used by Leslie Bibb as Sarah Lowell in Law Abiding Citizen (2009)

These devices symbolize the high-stakes, modern legal environment that forms the backdrop of this intense thriller.

The Killer (2023): Old MacBook, New Thrills

Example: Apple macbook laptop used by Charles Parnell as The Lawyer

“The Killer,” directed by David Fincher, includes an Apple MacBook, albeit an older model. Charles Parnell’s character, The Lawyer, uses the white plastic MacBook, adding a nostalgic touch to this modern thriller. The choice of an older model may also reflect the character’s unique, understated persona.

The Marsh King’s Daughter (2023): Revenge with a MacBook

Example: Apple MacBook Laptop in The Marsh King's Daughter (2023)

This psychological thriller features an Apple MacBook as a key prop. The movie revolves around a woman’s quest for revenge, and the presence of the MacBook helps ground the film in a contemporary, tech-driven world, adding to its tense and modern atmosphere.

She Said (2022): MacBooks Fuel the #MeToo Movement

Example: Apple MacBook Laptop used by Carey Mulligan as Megan Twohey in She Said (2022)

“She Said” follows the real-life investigation that helped ignite the #MeToo movement. Carey Mulligan’s character, Megan Twohey, is seen using an Apple MacBook laptop as she digs into one of the most significant scandals in Hollywood. The MacBook’s presence underscores the vital role of technology in investigative journalism today.

Chef (2014): Cooking Up Connections with Apple Devices

“Chef” is a feel-good movie about a celebrity chef starting anew with a food truck business. Jon Favreau’s character uses an Apple iPhone, while Sofia Vergara’s character is seen with a MacBook.

Example: Apple iPhone Smartphone of Jon Favreau as Carl Casper in Chef (2014)

Example: Apple MacBook Laptop of Sofía Vergara as Inez in Chef (2014)

These Apple products help portray the modern, digital lifestyle of the characters as they navigate their culinary adventures.

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