Apple is set to launch its Apple TV+ app on Android smartphones, expanding its reach beyond Apple devices. This move, first reported by Bloomberg, aims to compete with streaming giants like Netflix and Disney+. However, despite this expansion, Apple TV+ continues to struggle with limited global availability, restrictive content regions, and low viewership numbers.

Apple TV+ Finally Arrives on Android

Until now, Android users had to access TV+ through a web browser. The upcoming dedicated app, expected to launch via the Google Play Store, will provide a native experience. Since its 2019 debut, Apple TV+ has produced high-budget shows yet remains a small player in the streaming wars. I really love “Silo”, “Severance” and “Shrinking”.

The Apple TV+ Dilemma: Quality Content, No Audience

Apple has invested $20 billion in premium content, yet TV+ remains one of the least-watched streaming services, generating less viewership in a month than Netflix does in a day.

Limited Library: Only 259 titles, compared to Netflix’s 18,000+.
Minimal Marketing: Apple spends far less promoting Apple TV+ than products like the iPhone.
Low Subscribers: Netflix has 283 million users, while Apple TV+ has only 25 million. More here.
Restricted Availability: The service remains unavailable in many markets, including Kenya.

Apple TV+ launches on Android but struggles with low viewership, limited global availability, and competition from Netflix and Disney+. Expansion needed. — I really enjoy Silo, but being that Apple TV+ isn’t in Kenya, I must find other ways to watch it

Why Apple Needs a Global Strategy

The TV+ service lags behind because it hasn’t followed Netflix’s global-first approach. Meanwhile, Apple Music thrives by being available across platforms like Android and smart TVs, directly competing with Spotify and Tidal. If TV+ wants to succeed, it must go global, expand device support, and increase marketing.

What Apple Should Change

Expand to more countries, including Africa and Latin America.
Add localized content and licensing agreements.
Invest in better marketing to increase awareness.
Bundle Apple TV+ with iPhone and Mac purchases worldwide.
Introduce an ad-supported tier to attract budget-conscious users.

Final Thoughts

The Android expansion is a step forward, but without global access and aggressive marketing, Apple TV+ will remain a niche service. If Apple truly wants to compete, it must open up, embrace a multi-platform strategy, and remove content restrictions. Otherwise, it risks being a streaming service with great content that few people actually watch.