Apple TV app launches on Google TV starting with Chromecast

Google has announced that the Apple TV app, including Apple TV+, is now available on the Chromecast with Google TV.

This is something Google promised last year and it will also roll out to TVs from Sony and TCL with the Google TV software, which is based on Android TV. The firm says it will ‘roll out to more Android TV-powered devices in the coming months’.

“Google TV gives users with subscriptions to Apple TV+ the ability to tune into award-winning original shows, movies and documentaries from the world’s most creative storytellers,” said Jonathan Zepp, director of media and entertainment.

Owners of the latest Chromecast will find Apple TV in the Apps tab in the ‘For you’ section. The Chromecast with Google TV also supports the Google Assistant so you can use the voice remote to open the Apple TV or ask it to play a certain show.

Apple’s offering is a little confusing as the Apple TV is essentially iTunes so users can rent and buy TV shows and films. Meanwhile, Apple TV+ is the iPhone-maker’s subscription streaming service to rival the likes of Netflix, Amazon Prime Video and Disney+.

Apple TV+ is cheaper than competitors at £4.99 per month. You can try it with a 7-day free trial and also get 12 months for free when buying Apple products such as the iPad and iMac. The Family Sharing option means up to six family members can share subscriptions to Apple TV+ and Apple TV channels.

The service offers original content such as Golden Globe-nominated Ted Lasso, For All Mankind and Servant. Roku is also rumoured to be planning its own original content.