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Apple released its TV+ streaming app on Android phones on Wednesday, but the app lacks casting support and shows notifications that Android users regularly use on other streaming services.
Android users must pay $9.99 monthly through Google Play billing to watch shows like “Ted Lasso” and “Severance.” A seven-day free trial lets new subscribers test the service before paying.
“If you’re already signed into Apple Music, you have to log in again to Apple TV,” tech reviewer Abner Li reported for 9to5Google. Li found the app works smoothly but misses features that are common on other streaming platforms.
Apple TV+ adapts to different Android devices through Material Design, Google’s built-in system for making apps look and work naturally on Android. Dan Seifert, a tech journalist formerly with The Verge, tested the app on foldable phones. “The app actually works great on foldables,” Seifert posted on Threads.
The app works on phones and tablets running Android 10 or newer. Users can download shows to watch offline and pick up where they left off across different devices, including Apple TV boxes.
Soccer fans can add MLS Season Pass for $12.99 monthly or $79 per season. The package includes all Major League Soccer matches starting February 22, with no local broadcast restrictions.
Bloomberg reports that Apple spent $20 billion making shows and movies for TV+. Yet the service attracts only about one-tenth of Netflix’s viewers. “Apple TV+ generates less viewing in one month than Netflix does in one day,” according to Bloomberg’s analysis.
The limited feature set suggests Apple rushed to get TV+ on Android phones. While iPhone users can buy or rent extra movies and shows through the app, Android users cannot access Apple’s store for additional content.
An Apple spokesperson declined to say when missing features might arrive or how many Android users they expect to sign up.
This release marks Apple’s rare move to offer its services on competing platforms. Besides Apple Music, most Apple products and services remain exclusive to the company’s own devices.
