Apple TV+ finally comes to Android phones, as the tech titan woos new customers

Apple has finally released its streaming platform on rival Android devices, and is offering users a seven-day free trial amid pressure to open up its tightly-controlled systems.

Apple TV+ is now available on Android devices.

Apple has released its streaming platform on rival Android devices, and will let customers pay for subscriptions on Google Play accounts, as regulatory pressure mounts to open up its tightly-controlled ecosystem.

The Apple TV app and streaming service Apple TV+ will be available on Samsung phones and tablets, and Google Pixels or any device that supports Android 10 or later.

Apple says it has built the app from the “ground up to deliver Android users a familiar and intuitive interface”.

The world’s most valuable company - worth $US3.56 trillion - has been under pressure to open up its ecosystem, including allowing payments outside its own system in Australia, Britain and Europe.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has been investigating the market power of Apple and other tech titans as part of its rolling five-year inquiry, which is set to be completed this year.

Robert De Niro and Leonardo DiCaprio in "Killers of the Flower Moon," available on Apple TV+.

The ACCC has recommended establishing mandatory codes of conduct designed to prevent anti-competitive conduct, which includes preferencing their own rather than rival app stores and services. The reforms also include strengthening unfair contract terms laws, and forcing digital platforms to shut down scams, fake reviews and harmful apps.

Apple began preparing in late 2022 to allow applications from outside its lucrative App Store to be downloaded onto iPhones and iPads, in response to new EU laws, but the ACCC said changes in one jurisdiction rarely extended to another.

Joaquin Phoenix and Vanessa Kirby in a scene from the movie Napoleon.

On Thursday, Apple said the Apple TV app and Apple TV+ service would be available on Android devices globally and would offer users a seven-day free trial.

The device is already available on some non-Apple devices such as Samsung TVs but this is the first time it will be available on mobile phones, foldables and tablets.

“The Apple TV app on Android includes key features like ‘Continue Watching’ to pick up where a user left off across all their devices, and Watchlist to keep track of everything they want to watch in the future. The app streams seamlessly over Wi-Fi or a cellular connection, and includes the ability to download to watch offline,” Apple said.

Apple TV+ launched in 2019 and has produced hit shows, including Ted Lasso, Slow Horses and Palm Royale. It has also produced films such as Ridley Scott’s Napoleon and Martin Scorsese’s Killers of the Flower Moon.

Jason Sudeikis as Ted Lasso (centre) with co-stars and co-writers Brett Goldstein (left) and Brendan Hunt (right).

“Apple TV+ became the first all-original streaming service to launch around the world, and has premiered more original hits and received more award recognitions faster than any other streaming service in its debut,” Apple said.

“To date, Apple Original films, documentaries, and series have been honoured with 538 wins and 2,553 award nominations and counting, including multi-Emmy Award-winning comedy Ted Lasso and historic Oscar Best Picture winner CODA.”

Apple has previously allowed payments for its services outside its platform, allowing customers in the US to subscribe via Amazon.

Apple said Android users would also be able to take advantage of Major League Soccer’s 2025 season pass that is available on the service.

“The subscription service offers fans every MLS match in one dedicated location with no blackouts, plus an array of exclusive content, in-depth coverage, and analysis. All 30 MLS clubs will be in action as the league kicks off its 30th season the weekend of 22 February (US Eastern Standard Time).”

Originally published as Apple TV+ finally comes to Android phones, as the tech titan woos new customers