TL;DR
Backlot is an ad-free iPhone and iPad app that centralizes streaming discovery, universal search and synced watchlists. The app offers a free Discover feed and a Backlot Pro tier with monthly, yearly and lifetime purchase options.
What happened
Michael Burkhardt highlighted Backlot in 9to5Mac’s Indie App Spotlight, describing it as a compact tool for navigating today’s fragmented streaming landscape. The app aggregates trending movies, TV shows and actors into a Discover feed so users don’t have to jump between multiple service apps to find something to watch. Backlot also includes a universal search that identifies where a title is currently streaming, plus watchlists that sync across devices via iCloud. Users can jot down quick reactions or notes about shows and movies inside the app, a feature pitched toward reviewers and podcasters. The basic discovery experience is available for free from the App Store; additional features are bundled into Backlot Pro, which is offered at $2.99 per month, $19.99 per year or a $75 lifetime purchase. The piece appears in the Jan. 3, 2026 Indie App Spotlight column.
Why it matters
- Consolidates discovery across streaming platforms, reducing the need to search multiple apps.
- Universal search addresses frequent confusion over where titles are currently available to stream.
- iCloud-synced watchlists help keep saved content consistent across a user’s Apple devices.
- A lightweight notes/reactions feature supports content creators and casual reviewers.
Key facts
- Backlot offers a Discover feed that surfaces trending movies, TV shows and actors.
- Universal search reveals where specific shows or movies are streaming.
- Watchlists in Backlot sync across devices using iCloud.
- The app includes an in-app feature for recording short reactions or notes about content.
- The essential Discover feed is free on the App Store.
- Backlot Pro pricing: $2.99 per month, $19.99 per year, or $75 for lifetime access.
- Available platforms listed in the source: iPhone and iPad.
- The app is presented as an ad-free experience in the article.
What to watch next
- Whether Backlot’s paid tier adds enough utility over the free Discover feed to attract subscribers.
- not confirmed in the source: potential expansion to macOS, Apple TV, Android or other platforms.
- not confirmed in the source: updates to integrations with specific streaming services or tie-ins for direct playback.
Quick glossary
- Discover feed: A curated stream of trending or recommended content designed to help users find movies, TV shows or creators.
- Universal search: A search function that pulls results across multiple sources and services to show where content is available.
- Watchlist: A saved list of movies or shows a user wants to view later.
- iCloud sync: Apple’s cloud synchronization service that keeps data consistent across a user’s Apple devices.
- Freemium: A pricing model where a basic product is free and advanced features are available via paid upgrades.
Reader FAQ
Is Backlot free to use?
The Discover feed is available for free; additional features require Backlot Pro.
What devices support Backlot?
The source lists iPhone and iPad as available platforms.
Does Backlot show where a show is streaming?
Yes — the app’s universal search displays where specific titles are streaming.
Is there an ad-supported version?
The article describes Backlot as providing an ad-free experience.
Is Backlot available on Android or Mac?
not confirmed in the source
All the new products Apple released in 2025 Chance Miller Dec 31 2025 APPS INDIE APP SPOTLIGHT Indie App Spotlight: ‘Backlot’ is your ultimate companion for finding TV shows and…
Sources
- Indie App Spotlight: ‘Backlot’ is your ultimate companion for finding TV shows and movies
- Indie App Spotlight Archives
- Issue #16 – Pockity – IndieAppSpotlight
- 9to5Mac – Apple News & Mac Rumors Breaking All Day
Related posts
- Samsung Keyboard in One UI 8 is much better — key settings to change
- How to Manage Files on iOS and Android: Accessing Your Phone’s Storage
- Top Fitness and Workout Apps for 2026 — WIRED’s Tested Picks & Costs