Have you heard about some amazing new show on Apple TV+ that you really want to watch? But you own an Android phone, not an iPhone. No worries – you can absolutely access and enjoy Apple TV on any Android device with just a few easy workarounds!
In this detailed guide, I‘ll provide you all the information needed to watch Apple originals like Ted Lasso on your Android smartphone, tablet or TV.
Apple TV+ Service Overview: Content, Pricing and Availability
Let‘s first talk about what Apple TV+ actually is.
Launched fairly recently in November 2019, Apple TV+ is the tech giant‘s subscription streaming service to rival the likes of Netflix and Disney+. It focuses exclusively on original content like TV shows, movies and documentaries.
This includes globally popular titles such as:
- Ted Lasso
- Severance
- See
- CODA
- The Morning Show
Apple is investing over $6 billion annually in top Hollywood talent and production partners to rapidly expand their catalog with new Apple originals.
Apple TV+ Growth Statistics:
- Over 40 million subscribers globally as of January 2023
- Available in over 100 countries now
- Subscriber growth rate estimated at around 5 million per month
So even though it got a later start than competitors, Apple TV+ has quickly captured an audience thanks to breakout hits that appeal to both critics and everyday viewers.
A standard Apple TV+ subscription costs $6.99 per month after a free 7-day trial. That makes it quite affordable compared to leading rivals:
| Streaming Service | Monthly Price |
|---|---|
| Apple TV+ | $6.99 |
| Netflix | $9.99+ |
| Disney+ | $7.99 |
Apple TV+ also has a much smaller content library at around 300 movies and shows. By comparison:
- Netflix has over 3,500 titles
- Disney+ has over 1,000 titles from franchises like Star Wars and Marvel
But Apple has demonstrated a "quality over quantity" focus – pouring big budgets into securing industry superstars and critical acclaim for its portfolio of exclusive content.
Where Is Apple TV Available Natively?
The Apple TV app comes pre-installed on all Apple devices:
- iPhone
- iPad
- Mac computer
- Apple TV set-top box
It has also expanded to many smart TVs like Samsung, LG, Vizio, and Sony models. Gaming consoles such as PlayStation and Xbox support Apple TV integration as well.
Notable exceptions are the Android platform and Nintendo Switch – more on that next.
Why Can‘t I Get Apple TV Natively on My Android Device?
If Apple TV is available on so many non-Apple platforms, why doesn‘t it support Android phones, tablets and TVs?
There are a few key reasons driving this lack of Android integration:
Business Strategy – Apple makes strategic decisions to keep its services within the Apple and iOS ecosystem as much as possible, providing differentiation and cultivating valuable switchers from Android.
Technical Limitations – Seamless Apple TV integration requires deeper ties into Android than entertainment apps like Netflix. Core system-level restrictions likely prevent direct ports.
Still Early Days – The Android app may still be under development and released when service has more subscribers. Or politics between Apple and Google continue blocking progress.
The end result is Android owners must utilize workarounds to access Apple‘s platform. But with some simple steps, you‘ll be streaming Apple originals in no time!
And down the road, public demand may eventually compel Apple to develop and release an official Android mobile app for Apple TV+. But don‘t hold your breath!
How to Watch Apple TV on Android Smartphones and Tablets
Lacking an app, the only method to watch Apple TV on Android devices currently is by using a web browser like Chrome or Firefox.
While not as slick as a native mobile experience, the web platform still allows you to enjoy Apple TV‘s library of shows, movies and more on phones, tablets and Chromebooks with Android OS.
Follow these instructions:
Step 1) Open Your Preferred Browser
First, launch your favorite web browser that you normally use for surfing the internet on your device. This includes:
- Google Chrome
- Mozilla Firefox
- Microsoft Edge
- Opera
- Samsung Internet
- Any modern browser will work!
I suggest Chrome for the fastest streaming speeds and compatibility. But pick whichever you‘re most comfortable with.
Also make sure you‘re on the latest version for all supported features.
Step 2) Navigate to tv.apple.com
In the address bar at the top, type in tv.apple.com and hit enter.
This is the domain for Apple‘s web-based TV platform accessible on non-Apple devices.
Step 3) Sign In with Your Apple ID
If it‘s your first time visiting, you‘ll next need to authenticate access by signing in with your Apple ID.
Click the "Sign In" link at the top right. On the popup modal, enter your Apple ID email and password.
You may also need to enter a verification code sent via text, automated call or authentication app. Apple takes security very seriously across their ecosystem!
Once signed in, your full Apple TV+ profile will sync on Android. This includes watch history, preferences and recommendations to personalize your viewing experience.
Step 4) Start Streaming Apple Originals!
You now have access to stream any show or movie included with Apple TV+.
Use the search bar to find something specific or browse sections like TV Shows, Movies, Kids, etc. Then simply tap an intriguing title to start watching!
While it‘s not an elegant specialized app, the web interface provides the core streaming functionality. You also get features like:
- Video playback controls
- Continue Watching section
- Adding to Up Next queue
- Subtitle selection
- Full screen mode
So everything you need to sit back and enjoy Apple originals is available right within your Android browser – no iPhone required!
Tips for the Best Apple TV Experience on Android
I put together some handy tips for getting the smoothest streaming experience watching Apple TV in your Android browser:
Use Desktop Mode – Enable desktop mode in Chrome or your browser if available for full functionality.
Bookmark Site – Add Apple TV webpage to bookmarks for fast 1-tap access.
Pop Out Video – Detach the video popup for uninterrupted viewing as you multitask.
Adjust Quality – Gear icon allows manual resolution control if automatic is struggling.
Clear Other Tabs – Suspend unnecessary tabs using resources for best streaming rates.
Disable Adblockers – Whitelist tv.apple.com to prevent interference with video playback.
Use 5GHz WiFi – Leverage the higher frequency band on your router for faster speeds.
Restart Your Device – Quick reboot can help clear any memory issues impairing performance.
With those troubleshooting techniques for mobile browsers, you‘ll get the most seamless experience streaming Apple TV hits like Ted Lasso on your Android gadget!
Casting Apple TV onto Your Television
While watching shows on your smartphone or tablet works fine on-the-go, I‘m sure you‘d love to stream the latest Apple TV+ exclusives on the big screen at home!
Thankfully Android devices make this easy utilizing built-in display casting functionality.
You can mirror the browser streaming Apple TV onto compatible smart TVs and external monitors. Here are the general steps:
1. Begin playing a video within Apple TV web platform.
2. Pull down your notification bar and tap the Cast/Smart View icon.
3. Select your television from the list of available devices on the network.
4. The Apple TV video will seamlessly beam onto the TV!
The specific casting process varies a bit depending on Android manufacturer:
Samsung Phones – Use Smart View setting in Quick Settings. Then choose TV from available options.
Google Pixels – Leverage native Chromecast integration under Cast notification icon.
LG Smartphones – Access Screen Share menu and pick external monitor target.
But every brand offers streamlined wireless casting capabilities these days.
Additionally, here are some popular Android TVs supporting screen mirroring:
- Sony Bravia (Google Cast)
- TCL with Google TV built-in
- Hisense with Chromecast
- Nokia Smart TV (Google Cast)
So just about any Android phone or tablet can sling Apple TV content from the mobile browser directly onto Android smart TVs!
Then kick back with the latest hits like Severance on a giant television screen even without an Apple device. Pretty cool right?
Do I Need an Apple ID to Access Apple TV+?
In order to watch anything on Apple TV, you do need an Apple ID account.
This is Apple‘s universal login system granting access across their ecosystem – App Store downloads, iCloud storage, iMessage texts, FaceTime calls and more all utilize your Apple ID.
If you‘ve ever owned an iPhone, iPad or Mac, you likely already have one setup.
But if not, creating an Apple ID just for using Apple TV on Android is quick and straightforward:
1. On any device, browse to: appleid.apple.com
2. Click "Create Your Apple ID" link
3. Enter your name, email, birthday
4. Create a secure password
5. Agree to Apple‘s terms of service
6. Verify via confirmation email
Within a few minutes, you‘ll have a shiny new Apple ID ready to sign in across Apple‘s platforms and start watching Apple TV!
Is Apple TV Worth It for Android Users?
Even with the extra hurdles compared to iPhone owners, an Apple TV+ subscription can still be incredibly worthwhile for Android users – especially media fanatics.
The service only costs $6.99 per month, making it quite affordable either as your sole streaming option or stacked with others like Netflix or Disney+.
While Apple‘s content library is still ramping up, they have impressed both critics and mainstream viewers with breakout hits like Ted Lasso and Severance.
Exclusive access to buzzworthy premieres could persuade you to signup. And the streaming functionality itself works perfectly fine in Android mobile browsers.
Just set proper expectations around the makeshift nature rather than a customized app. As long as you know what you‘re getting into, Apple TV helps round out your entertainment diet with binge-worthy originals.
For latest updates, stays tuned here as I report back on any progress on an official Apple TV app for Android!
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about watching Apple TV on Android devices:
Can I download shows to watch offline?
Unfortunately, offline downloads require the native Apple TV mobile app which Android does not have access to currently.
What about other streaming apps like Netflix or Disney+ ?
Apple TV+ focuses solely on Apple original movies and series. Third-party streaming services need to be accessed separately in their own Android apps.
Can I watch iTunes purchases or rentals?
No, iTunes store content lives specifically within Apple‘s ecosystem, separate from the Apple TV+ streaming service.
How do I get Apple TV+ without paying?
A 7-day free trial of Apple TV+ comes standard. You could also qualify for several months free when purchasing Apple hardware products. Or keep an eye out for special promos offering temporary access.
I hope these Apple TV+ answers prove helpful! Let me know any other questions in comments!
Closing Thoughts
Well there you have it friends…everything you need to join the Apple TV+ craze on that shiny Android gadget of yours!
While we wait (probably forever) for an official Apple TV application to hit the Google Play Store, simply firing up Chrome or your preferred browser still grants access to sought-after Apple originals.
Then you can cast shows seamlessly onto televisions for maximum enjoyment potential. Your iPhone owning buddies will surely be jealous when you school them on these handy Android streaming tricks!
Now enjoy favorites like Ted Lasso, grab some snacks, and unwind with the latest hits from Apple TV+…no matter what device you own.
Let me know if you have any other questions about watching Apple TV on Android. Until next time, happy streaming!
