The Apple TV app on Android now supports Google Cast, meaning it’s easier than ever to stream the platform’s shows and movies to other devices from your phone or tablet.
Despite Apple TV launching in 2019, it took until February of this year for the streaming service to offer an Android app. I was very pleased at the time, though I noted it was missing many essential features—one of those being the ability to cast to other devices like a TV. Happily, I can now cross that off the list.
The update means that you can send whatever you’re watching on Apple TV to any device that supports Google Cast, like Chromecast and TVs running Google TV. You may be familiar with the feature from other streaming apps like Prime Video and Disney+.
To take advantage of it, you need version 2.2.0 or higher of the Apple TV app; head to the app on Google Play and tap “Update” if necessary. Then, play a movie or show within the app and select the cast icon in the top-right. This opens a menu where you can choose which device you wish to cast to.
Once connected, your phone or tablet acts as a remote, allowing you to access functionality like play, rewind, and subtitles. I’ve found it to be simple and effective, and it means you can watch the latest episode of Pluribus on more than just your Android device.
Somewhat amusingly, this Apple TV update comes not long after Netflix almost entirely removed casting support from its mobile app. Netflix now only supports a select few legacy devices for casting, advising customers that they should “use the remote that came with your device to navigate and watch instead”. It follows Netflix’s decision in 2019 to remove AirPlay support.
Considering Apple is fond of its walled garden, it’s fantastic that not only is the company’s streaming service available on Android devices, but now it also supports Google Cast. With shows like Severance, The Studio, and Slow Horses, Apple TV is one of my favorite sources of entertainment, and making it accessible to more people and more devices is only a good thing.
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No
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6
Apple TV is the only place where you can stream shows like Severance and Ted Lasso and movies like The Lost Bus and CODA.
