As Apple aims to grow its subscriber base, the company launches AppleTV+ in the Google Play Store for Android users

Apple has officially expanded its reach by launching the Apple TV+ app for Android users, making it available for download on the Google Play Store. This move marks a rare instance of the Cupertino-based tech giant offering one of its services beyond the iOS ecosystem. Apple’s decision to introduce the app on Android comes at a time when Apple TV+ originals, such as the widely acclaimed series “Silo,” are experiencing a surge in popularity. By making its streaming service accessible to a broader audience, Apple is strategically positioning itself to increase revenue in the highly competitive streaming industry.

In line with this expansion, Apple has invested heavily in premium content, spending a staggering $20 million per episode for the second season of the hit series “Severance,” which premiered in January. According to reports from Bloomberg, this level of investment reflects Apple’s commitment to high-quality original programming as it looks to attract and retain subscribers in a market dominated by major players like Netflix and Disney+. With tech rivals in China challenging iPhone sales, Apple has been shifting its focus to boosting revenue from its services division, which encompasses subscriptions, iCloud storage, advertising, and AppleCare. The company’s strategy has been paying off, as its services segment saw a 14% year-over-year increase, reaching a record $26.3 billion in revenue during the first quarter of the 2024-25 financial year.

Despite expanding Apple TV+ to Android, Apple continues to maintain a level of exclusivity within its ecosystem. Many features remain accessible only to iOS users, reinforcing the company’s longstanding strategy of keeping certain services tightly integrated within its own devices. Analysts suggest that while Apple is opening its services to a wider audience, it is still cautious about fully breaking down the walls of its ecosystem.

The Android launch follows a promotional effort in which Apple offered users a free weekend trial of Apple TV+ across iOS devices, Windows, and select smart TVs. This push comes amid increasing competition in the streaming industry, where Apple TV+ holds a relatively small share compared to giants like Netflix. Reports indicate that Apple’s streaming service has only a fraction of Netflix’s user base and is priced higher, with a $9.99 monthly subscription fee in the U.S., compared to Netflix’s ad-supported plan at $7.99. By expanding to Android, Apple is likely aiming to increase its subscriber base and strengthen its position in the global streaming market.

Categories: Technology
Pratik Patil: