The Apple TV app is important to Apple because it not only grants access to content purchased with iTunes, but also expands availability of its streaming service, Apple TV+. So the app being available on as many devices as possible is good for the company.
And it’s good for the other companies working with Apple to launch the app, too. More options right out of the box for these streaming devices, whether it’s a streaming stick or a full smart TV, is never a bad thing. Today, Google has announced that folks who own Chromecast with Google TV, and select Android TV units, will be getting one more app: the Apple TV app.
According to Google‘s announcement today, the Apple TV app will launch on the Chromecast with Google TV streaming device “early next year”. That’s about all the company has to offer in terms of a release date, unfortunately. So we can’t circle a date on the calendar just yet. But with 2020 wrapping up (finally), we’ll probably learn more in that regard sooner rather than later.
With the addition of the Apple TV app, Chromecast with Google TV users can access Apple TV+ (you’ll need a paid subscription). This makes the Chromecast with Google TV one of the only streaming devices with all the major video subscriptions.
Google notes that Apple TV+ originals will show up in recommendations while using Google TV’s interface, so those films and shows won’t be left in the dark when it comes to that functionality. You’ll even be able to search for Apple Originals, too. Save them to your Watchlist to enjoy them on your own time.
Google also confirmed that the Apple TV app will roll out to “more devices powered by Android TV OS”, at some point in the future. No date on that, either.
This news arrives after Google announced earlier this month that Apple Music is now supported on the company’s range of Nest smart speakers and displays.