Apple appears to be making a significant change to its streaming strategy, with reports indicating that Apple TV+ may soon be available on Android devices.
Android Expansion
According to a recent job listing spotted by Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, Apple is seeking developers to create an Android version of the Apple TV+ app. This move would mark a rare expansion of an Apple service beyond its own ecosystem, following in the footsteps of Apple Music.
Potential Impact
By bringing Apple TV+ to Android, the tech giant could significantly expand its potential subscriber base. Android holds a larger global market share than iOS, potentially opening up billions of new devices to Apple's streaming service.
Current State of Apple TV+
Apple TV+ has been gaining critical acclaim, with CEO Tim Cook noting at WWDC that it has had the highest-rated originals for three years running. The service has garnered numerous awards, including Oscars and Emmys, for shows like Ted Lasso, CODA, and Severance.
However, despite the accolades, Apple TV+ is estimated to have a relatively modest subscriber base of 30-40 million, trailing behind major competitors like Netflix.
Content and Pricing
Apple TV+ currently offers a mix of original content and, more recently, licensed movies from other studios. The service has also ventured into sports programming with deals for Major League Soccer and Major League Baseball.
The monthly subscription price for Apple TV+ recently doubled to $9.99, making the potential Android expansion a crucial move for growth.
Strategic Implications
This potential expansion suggests that Apple is prioritizing service revenue and content reach over hardware exclusivity. It remains to be seen how this strategy will impact Apple's broader ecosystem approach and its competition with other streaming giants.
As Apple continues to invest heavily in original content and expand its offerings, the move to Android could be a pivotal moment in the streaming wars. However, with development likely just beginning, it may be some time before Android users can access Apple TV+ on their devices.