February 14, 2025, 4:14 pm | Read time: 2 minutes
Apple is expanding its streaming offering and bringing Apple TV+ to Android devices as a standalone app for the first time. This gives the iPhone company access to a large new user base and increases competition with Netflix and Disney+. The app offers access to Apple’s original series, films, and sports content, such as the MLS Season Pass.
Apple TV+ was previously only available on Apple devices and via a web browser on Android. Now, Apple is taking a decisive step and offering its streaming platform as an app directly available on the Google Play Store. Users can subscribe to Apple TV+, stream high-quality content, and save videos offline. However, some functions known from the iOS version are missing.
Apple TV+ Launches As an App on Android Devices
With the release of the Apple TV+ app for Android, users of smartphones and tablets can now access the streaming service. Previously, this was only possible via a web browser. With exclusive series such as Severance, Slow Horses, and Ted Lasso as well as blockbuster films such as Killers of the Flower Moon and CODA, the streaming service is considered one of the best content offerings on the market. In addition to series and films, subscribers can also access the “MLS Season Pass,” which offers live broadcasts of all Major League Soccer matches without restrictions.
The new Android app for Apple TV+ supports streaming via Wi-Fi or mobile connections and allows content to be downloaded for offline use. However, it also lacks some functions. For example, there is no separate watch list but a combined view with “Continue watching.” The cast function, which can be used to transfer content to televisions, is also not available in the first version.
Another shortcoming: users cannot access purchased or rented films from the Apple Media Library. Logging in requires two-factor authentication, which makes it somewhat more complicated to use.
Streaming box and smart home center What is Google’s new TV streamer good for?
Top-class content Previously exclusive streaming films could soon be shown on free TV
Streaming provider “Moments” on Netflix – what does the new function do?
Apple Intensifies Competition with Netflix, Disney+, and Others
With the expansion to Android, Apple TV+ is aiming to stand up to tough competition from Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and other providers. According to market researchers, Apple TV+ currently has a significantly smaller viewer base than its competitors. Availability on Android could change this and bring the service new subscribers.
The Apple TV app is now available in the Google Play Store for Android smartphones and tablets. New customers can try out the service for free during a seven-day trial period, after which the subscription costs 9.99 euros per month.