Apple Launches Apple TV+ on Google Play Store for Android Users to Boost Subscriber Growth

Apple has officially launched the Apple TV+ app for Android users on the Google Play Store, marking a significant step in its "evolving strategy" to boost its services revenue. This move comes as Apple faces challenges in its hardware business, particularly from competitors in China impacting iPhone sales.

Expanding beyond its iOS ecosystem is rare for Apple, but this launch comes at a time when Apple TV+ originals like Silo are gaining popularity. The app's availability on Android could further increase Apple’s subscriber base and revenue, especially following its $20 million-per-episode investment in Severance season two.

Apple's services, including subscriptions, iCloud, and AppleCare, have already seen impressive growth, with a 14% year-on-year increase, reaching a record $26.3 billion in Q1 of 2024-25. However, despite this push, Apple still keeps many features exclusive to iOS devices. This launch follows a promotional weekend offering free access to Apple TV+ to attract new subscribers, and it competes in a streaming market where Apple TV+ has a smaller user base compared to Netflix.

Despite these efforts, Apple TV+ costs more than Netflix, with a subscription at $9.99 per month in the US, compared to Netflix's $7.99 for its standard plan with ads.