Apple TV Plus Now Available on Android Smartphones

Gone are the days when accessing Apple TV+ on mobile devices was exclusively reserved for iPhone users. The recent launch of the Apple TV+ app for Android devices marks a significant milestone, potentially expanding the subscriber base of Apple’s streaming service.

The Long-Awaited Introduction

Since its debut in late 2019, Apple TV+ has denied access to Android users, compelling them to stream via their browser—hardly an ideal setup. This week, however, the Apple TV app officially made its entrance in the Google Play Store. Users may experience a staggered rollout, so don’t worry if the app isn’t available just yet. As of now, it celebrates over 50 million downloads, though reviews highlighting Android-specific issues are still awaited.

Moreover, Android users can now enjoy the convenience of Google Play billing for Apple TV+ subscriptions and the MLS Season Pass—eliminating the need to go through Apple for payments, even though the app had previously been available on Android TVs.

Apple assures users that the functionalities of the iOS and Android app versions are largely identical; however, Android users will need to hold tight a little longer for notifications about new content. Thankfully, those with Android TVs will still receive alerts directly on their devices.

Reasons Behind the Change

Why has Apple, after years of abstaining from developing an Android app, made this strategic shift all of a sudden? The answer rests on subscriber growth.

Initially, Apple TV+ encountered challenges in building a loyal viewer base, prompting them to incorporate existing shows alongside their original content. Despite positive reception for their exclusive programming, the limited library wasn’t enough to retain viewer interest over time.

Fortunately, Apple has been diligently increasing its catalog with more original movies and shows, as well as including a selection of acquired titles. With streaming service prices on the rise each year, consumers are now more selective than ever in choosing which services to subscribe to.

In the U. S., iOS maintains dominance with around 58% market share of smartphone users, while Android still commands about 42%.Globally, the situation tilts even more in favor of Android, boasting nearly 73% market penetration.

Global statistics for Android and iOS from statcounter.

By facilitating access to Apple TV+ for Android users, Apple is astutely courting this significant demographic. Given the penchant for mobile streaming, an official app can certainly tip the scales in Apple’s favor when users weigh their subscription options.

This move is just a snippet of Apple’s ongoing strategy to increase their subscriber count. In early January, the company offered potential viewers a risk-free weekend trial—requiring no credit card—an ingenious tactic to entice new users.

The resulting impact on Android subscribers will be intriguing to observe as this much-anticipated app goes live.

If juggling multiple streaming services like Apple TV+, you might find it useful to explore sites that effortlessly consolidate information about which platform hosts your favorite shows and films.

Image credit: Unsplash

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When will the Apple TV+ app be widely available on Android devices?

The rollout of the Apple TV+ app for Android devices may take several days to complete. If you don’t see it yet, check back soon on the Google Play Store.

2. Can I subscribe to Apple TV+ directly through the Android app?

Yes! Android users can now use Google Play billing to subscribe to Apple TV+ and manage payments through their Google account.

3. Are the features of the Apple TV+ Android app identical to those on iOS?

Generally, yes. Apple claims that the functionalities should be comparable, though Android users may initially lack notification alerts for new episodes or movies.

Source & Images