If you got that email from Apple about FairPlay Streaming changes, you're probably wondering what it means for your app. Let's break it down without the tech jargon overload.
What is FairPlay Streaming Anyway?
Think of FairPlay Streaming (FPS) as Apple's bouncer for video content. It's the DRM (Digital Rights Management) technology that makes sure only authorized users can watch protected video content on iOS, tvOS, and macOS devices.
Here's what it does:
- Encrypts video content using AES 128-bit keys
- Securely delivers these keys from your server to Apple devices
- Works with HLS (HTTP Live Streaming) protocol
- Manages content expiration and offline playback
If you're running a streaming service, building a video app, or dealing with premium content that needs protection, you're using FairPlay Streaming.
The Current Situation: SDK Versions Explained
Apple uses a versioning system that can be confusing. Here's what you need to know:
FairPlay Streaming SDK 4.4.5 (Legacy)
This is the older version that many developers have been using. If you set up FairPlay years ago, you're probably on this. It works, but Apple's been pushing everyone to move forward.
FairPlay Streaming Server SDK 26
This is NOT the same as SDK version 26. Confusing, right? The "26" refers to the server SDK package version, which is just Apple's way of numbering their documentation and reference implementations.
What really matters is whether you're using:
- SDK 4.x workflow - The established version that's been around and is still supported
- SDK 5.x workflow - The newer version introduced in October 2024
What's Breaking (And What Apple Really Means)
The Reality:
- SDK 4.x certificates and workflows are NOT being disabled
- Apple just wants you to move to SDK 5.x for new implementations
- Your existing SDK 4.x certificates will continue to work
- The problem? The developer portal makes it hard to generate NEW SDK 4.x certificates
If you're already running FairPlay: If you're setting up FairPlay now:"What This Means for You"
The SDK 5.x Upgrade: What's New
Apple introduced SDK 5.x in October 2024 with one major improvement:
2048-bit certificates - Better security compared to the older 1024-bit certificates in SDK 4.x
That's pretty much it. Not exactly revolutionary, but it's about staying current with security standards.
The Developer Dilemma
Here's the frustrating part that Apple's email doesn't address:
- Certificate Limits - Apple limits you to just two FairPlay certificates per account
- No Deletion - You can't delete old certificates yourself
- Provider Compatibility - Many video platforms (Mux, Axinom, others) still require SDK 4.x
- Portal Restrictions - The developer portal now defaults to SDK 5.x and grays out SDK 4.x
This creates a catch-22: You need SDK 4.x for your provider, but Apple's pushing SDK 5.x.
What You Should Do Right Now
If you're building a new streaming app:
- Check with your DRM provider about SDK 5.x support
- If they support it, go with SDK 5.x
- If not, you'll need to specifically request SDK 4.x access from Apple (email
fpsrequest@apple.com)
If you have an existing app:
- Don't panic - your current setup will continue working
- Document which SDK version you're using
- Plan migration to SDK 5.x when your DRM provider supports it
- Test on the latest iOS versions to catch any quirks
If you're switching DRM providers:
- Verify which SDK version they support BEFORE signing contracts
- If you need a new certificate but hit the limit, contact Apple support
- Be prepared for delays - support responses can take weeks
Common Issues You Might Hit
tvOS 26 on older Apple TV devices - Some developers report playback issues on Apple TV 4th Gen after the tvOS 26 update. If you're seeing this, file a bug report with Apple.
Certificate request delays - FairPlay credential approvals can take 2+ weeks. Plan accordingly.
Third-party SDK compatibility - If you're using a third-party player SDK, make sure it supports your chosen FPS version.
The Bottom Line
Apple's FairPlay Streaming SDK 26 email is essentially a nudge toward SDK 5.x, but it's not the emergency it sounds like. Your existing implementations will keep working, but you should start planning for eventual migration.
The real issue isn't the SDK change itself - it's the ecosystem around it. DRM providers, video platforms, and documentation all need time to catch up with SDK 5.x.
"Key Takeaways"
- SDK 4.x isn't dead, just discouraged for new implementations
- SDK 5.x offers better security but limited third-party support currently
- Certificate management is still painful
- Plan transitions carefully with your DRM provider
Understand your current setup, verify what your providers support, and make informed decisions based on your app's specific needs.
Resources
- Apple's FairPlay Streaming page
- For certificate issues: fpsrequest@apple.com
- Check Apple Developer Forums for latest discussions
Last updated: October 2025 based on current Apple documentation and developer reports
Top comments (1)
It's the DRM (Digital Rights Management) technology that makes sure only authorized users can watch protected video content on iOS, tvOS, and macOS devices.