The Google Play Store now offers the Apple TV+ app for Android users, marking a rare decision by Apple to extend its services beyond iOS devices. The timing aligns with the growing popularity of Apple TV+ originals like Silo, as Apple invests heavily in content production. Season two of Severance reportedly cost $20 million per episode, according to Bloomberg. Tech analyst Jacob Bourne from EMARKETER suggests this move reflects Apple's evolving strategy to drive service revenue amid slowing iPhone sales. Apple's services sector, including subscriptions, iCloud, and Apple Care, grew 14% year-over-year to a record $26.3 billion in Q1 FY2025.
Despite this expansion, Morningstar analyst William Kerwin cautions that it does not signal a broader opening of Apple's ecosystem, as many features remain exclusive to iOS. However, Forrester analyst Dipanjan Chatterjee notes that Apple is leveraging this strategy to compete in the streaming market, where its subscriber base is still significantly smaller than Netflix’s 300 million global memberships.
Apple TV+ subscriptions cost $9.99 per month in the U.S., compared to Netflix’s $7.99 ad-supported plan. Apple has also introduced limited-time free trials to attract new users.
Since its launch in 2019, Apple TV+ has earned over 538 wins and 2,553 award nominations, with acclaimed originals like Ted Lasso and CODA. Expanding to Android could help Apple further cement its presence in the competitive streaming industry.
