APPLE has reportedly made progress on its long-rumoured plan to bring the Apple TV streaming service to Android owners.
As things stand today, millions of people can only access Apple TV on their smart TVs – and not on their Android smartphones or tablets.
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Despite rumours of an Apple TV app coming to Android swirling since 2021, the Silicon Valley giant hasn’t given any indication on its the project is even under development.
Until now, that is.
Apple is currently scouting for a senior Android software engineer to join the Apple TV app team, Bloomberg reported.
According to the job listing, the engineer will lead the development of “an application used by millions to watch and discover tv and sports”.
An Android app would mean millions more Apple TV subscribers can watch content on-the-go, without having to navigate tv.apple.com on the web.
The Apple TV app also offers access to MLS Season Pass, and a shop to buy and rent movies.
In response to the news, several onlookers on X said it was “about time”.
But others were quick to point out that it’s “not the first time” they’ve heard rumours of an Apple TV app for Android.
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Where can I watch Apple TV?
If the app comes to fruition, Android would join a long list of compatible platforms where Apple TV is available:
- iPhone
- iPad
- Mac
- Apple TV
- Apple Vision Pro
- PS4
- PS5
- Xbox One
- Xbox Series S
- Xbox Series X
- Roku TV streaming sticks
- Amazon Fire TV streaming sticks
- Select smart TVs
Apple v Android
Apple has traditionally been reluctant to hand Android owners any of its native apps amid its well established rivalry with Google and Samsung.
The iPhone-maker offers only a handful of apps to Android phones, such as Apple Music, Move to iOS, and a Beats app.
Flocks of companies have tried to compete with Apple over the years, and failed.
But Samsung is making significant progress in gobbling up some of Apple market share.
Just last month, the Korean rival took the throne as the world’s best selling mobile phone maker, after Apple suffered a slump in sales.
In February, rumours were flying about a foldable iPhone, suggesting Apple was bowing to pressure amid the popularity of Samsung’s Galaxy Flip and Fold handsets.
It was the first Android-based device that looked like it had the potential to bring iOS lovers to Android – according to iPhone owners themselves.
Android-based Samsung has no issues fanning the flames of this rivalry, either.
Must-know Android tips to boost your phone
Get the most out of your Android smartphone with these little-known hacks: