Android users could soon be streaming Apple TV+’s award-winning content directly from their smartphones. A recent job listing suggests that Apple is finally developing a dedicated app for the rival platform, marking a significant shift in the company’s traditionally closed-off strategy.
This move could open up a massive new audience for Apple TV+, which has so far been limited to Apple devices, smart TVs, and a handful of streaming devices. With Android powering more than 3 billion devices worldwide, the potential for subscriber growth is immense.
For Android users, this means access to Apple’s critically acclaimed original series like “Ted Lasso,” “Severance,” and “The Morning Show,” as well as a growing library of movies and documentaries. The convenience of having a native app on their smartphones could entice many Android users to give Apple TV+ a try, especially given its recent price increase.
While the job listing doesn’t explicitly confirm an Android app, it strongly hints at Apple’s intentions. The company is seeking a senior engineer to lead the development of “fun new features” and “help build an application used by millions to watch and discover TV and sports.” This description aligns perfectly with the scope of an Apple TV+ Android app.
Apple’s decision to expand to Android could be seen as a response to the increasingly competitive streaming landscape. With giants like Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video vying for viewers’ attention, Apple needs to reach as many potential subscribers as possible. This move also aligns with Apple’s growing focus on services as a key revenue driver, alongside its hardware products.
However, there might be internal concerns within Apple about this move. The company has historically been hesitant to release its software on rival platforms, fearing it could cannibalize iPhone sales. For instance, popular apps like FaceTime and iMessage remain exclusive to Apple devices. But with the growing importance of services, Apple seems to be reevaluating its approach.
The potential launch of an Apple TV+ Android app could mark a new era for the tech giant, one where it prioritizes reaching a wider audience and maximizing its service revenue over protecting its hardware ecosystem. For Android users, it’s a win-win situation, granting them access to a premium streaming service they’ve been missing out on.
