Apple launched its TV+ streaming service on Android devices, marking a significant departure from its walled garden approach and expanding access to its growing library of original content to billions of potential new subscribers.
Why it matters: The release changes how Android users can access Apple’s content, moving from clunky browser-based viewing to a native app experience optimized for phones and tablets running Android 10 or later.
Technical Features: The new Android app brings most of Apple’s streaming capabilities to Google’s platform, though with some notable limitations compared to its iOS counterpart:
- Native offline downloads support
- Cross-device progress syncing
- Material Design interface optimized for foldables
Market Impact: Apple’s strategic expansion into Android territory comes as the company seeks to grow its streaming service beyond its current 8% U.S. market share:
- Expands potential audience to 70% of global smartphone users
- Maintains $9.99 monthly pricing across platforms
- Includes MLS Season Pass integration
The app launches with support for Apple TV+ original content and sports offerings, including Major League Soccer matches and Friday Night Baseball. However, unlike its iOS counterpart, the Android version doesn’t include access to iTunes purchases or movie rentals.
This move mirrors Apple’s previous Android ventures, including Apple Music in 2015 and Apple Music Classical, as the company increasingly looks beyond its hardware ecosystem for service revenue growth.
The timing coincides with the upcoming second season of hit show “Severance” and the 2025 MLS season kickoff on February 22. Android users can sign up through Google Play billing, with a seven-day free trial available to new subscribers.
While the app supports most core streaming features, some capabilities remain absent at launch. Users can’t cast content to Google TV devices, and the app doesn’t support notifications for sports events. Apple has indicated these features may arrive in future updates.
The expansion comes as Apple TV+ struggles to compete with larger streaming services. Despite critical acclaim and awards including an Oscar for Best Picture with “CODA,” the service maintains a relatively modest market share compared to Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.
Industry analysts suggest this Android expansion could significantly boost Apple TV+’s subscriber base, particularly in markets where Android devices dominate. The move also positions Apple to better compete with other streaming services as the industry faces increasing pressure to grow subscriber numbers.
