On Wednesday, Apple made a significant announcement regarding its Apple TV app. The app, which includes the Apple TV+ streaming service and MLS Season Pass, is now available on Android devices. Previously, the company offered a version for Google TV, but the newly released app supports a broader range of Android-based devices, including phones, tablets, and even foldables.
With this launch, customers using Google’s platforms, both in the living room and on mobile, can now subscribe to Apple TV+ and MLS Season Pass through Google Play billing. Previously, Google TV users needed an existing account on Apple TV+ before using the app. Now, users can create an Apple account on their device and pay for the service as they would on Apple devices, with pricing remaining at $9.99 per month.
The expansion of the TV app allows Apple's streaming service to reach a larger user base, particularly in non-U.S. markets where Android devices are more prevalent. This move is expected to boost the popularity of Apple TV+, known for its top shows like “Severance,” “Slow Horses,” “The Morning Show,” and “Ted Lasso,” among others. Apple Original films such as “Wolfs,” “The Instigators,” and the Oscar-winning “CODA” are also included.
The Android version of the TV app offers access to essential features like offline downloads, saved watchlists, and a “continue watching” feature that syncs watch history across devices. This feature works even if you mix devices, like an Android phone or tablet combined with an Apple TV streaming box.
Android TV app users will also be notified of new episodes or TV seasons. However, the app currently lacks native notifications for updates and new arrivals. As users explore TV+ content, they will be directed to some of the most acclaimed and popular shows, which they can add to their watchlist or stream instantly. Additionally, Friday Night Baseball’s live sports broadcast is available for Android users.
The MLS Season Pass is available as an optional add-on for $12.99 per month or $79 per season, featuring all 30 MLS clubs starting the weekend of February 22. Users can follow their favorite teams for personalized recommendations, including access to a “dedicated supporters” section within the app.
Optimized for Android, the new app adheres to Android’s Material Design principles, including adaptive layouts that adjust to different screen sizes such as phones, tablets, and foldables. However, one key difference between the Android and Apple versions of the app is that Android users do not have access to the in-app Store, where users can rent and buy movies and shows.
The app arrives five years after Apple launched Apple TV+ worldwide, marking its initial venture into original streaming content. Apple's premium streaming service has earned a reputation for high-quality content, particularly in drama and sci-fi categories. It was the first streaming service to win an Academy Award for Best Picture with its 2022 victory for “CODA.” More recently, its original shows received nominations for the 2024 Emmys in all the major categories, securing 10 wins, including Creative Arts awards.
The Apple TV app for Android is rolling out to Google Play users starting Wednesday, offering a new avenue for Android users to enjoy Apple's acclaimed streaming content.
