CastBuddy for Kids

Picture-based TV Launcher

$4.99 · Designed for iPad. Not verified for macOS.

iPad

A simple, picture-based way for kids to choose what to watch on Apple TV — without ever touching the remote. CastBuddy lets a parent or caregiver pick what plays on Apple TV from a simple, picture-based library on their iPad — no remote required for the person watching. Tap a picture on the iPad. The video plays on the TV. That's it. Built with kids in mind, especially those who struggle with the Siri Remote — including non-verbal children, kids with autism, and anyone for whom abstract menu navigation is a barrier. CastBuddy turns the parent's iPad into a focused, picture-based launcher that hands content directly to the TV the child is already watching, even mid-show. KEY FEATURES - Picture-based library — kids choose by recognizing what they want, not by reading menus - One-tap casting from iPad to Apple TV - Cast new videos while the child stays in YouTube — no need to navigate back - Parent Mode for organizing screens, adding new content, and managing the library - PIN-protected parent controls so the child stays in their experience - Moods — switch the visible content set instantly (e.g., Bedtime, Quiet Time, Everything) - Multi-screen organization for grouping similar content together - Local-first design — your data stays on your device HOW IT WORKS 1. Install CastBuddy on the iPad and CastBuddy on the Apple TV 2. Pair them with a 4-digit code (one-time setup) 3. Open Child Mode and tap a picture 4. The matching video opens on the Apple TV PRIVACY CastBuddy does not collect personal information. There are no accounts, no sign-ups, and no third-party trackers. All your data stays on your device. FOR FAMILIES OF KIDS WITH DISABILITIES This app exists because of the developer's non-verbal autistic son. It's built for the very real moment when a child wants to watch something but can't operate the TV themselves. If this app helps your family, we'd love to hear from you at CastBuddy@icloud.com. A NOTE ON VERSION 1.0 This is the first public release. Things might be a little rough around the edges in spots — please send feedback to CastBuddy@icloud.com so we can make it better. Built independently. Not affiliated with Apple, YouTube, or any media platform.

Ratings & Reviews

  • This app hasn’t received enough ratings or reviews to display an overview.

The developer, Andrew Craven, indicated that the app’s privacy practices may include handling of data as described below. For more information, see the developer’s privacy policy .

  • Data Not Collected

    The developer does not collect any data from this app.

    Privacy practices may vary, for example, based on the features you use or your age. Learn More

    Accessibility

    The developer has not yet indicated which accessibility features this app supports. Learn More

    Information

    Seller
    Andrew Craven
    Size
    4.3 MB
    Category
    Entertainment
    Compatibility
    Requires iPadOS 17.6 or later.
    • iPad
      Requires iPadOS 17.6 or later.
    • Mac
      Requires macOS 14.6 or later and a Mac with Apple M1 chip or later.
    Languages
    English
    Age Rating
    4+
    • 4+
    • Made for Ages 6–8

      This app is rated 4+ with content restrictions.

      Some content may be rated higher, and may therefore be restricted and managed by the developer through in-app controls.
    • Learn More
    • In-App Controls
      Parental Controls
    Copyright
    © 2026 Drew Craven
  • Privacy Policy

    • Supports

    • Family Sharing

      Up to six family members can use this app with Family Sharing enabled.