Apple TV has restricted renting or buying content from Google TV and Android TV

Apple has decided to block the option to buy or rent content through the Apple TV app on devices that use Google TV or Android TV. And while no official explanation has been given as to the reason for this measure, it will be related to an old dispute over the payment of commissions for transactions made within the application.

According to the information available, identification involves a large number of devices. From smart TVs and media players (such as NVIDIA Shield), to the launch of the Chromecast in 2020 along with Google TV, among others. In the future, users will no longer be able to access new content from the Apple TV app, although they will be able to view previously purchased content in their library.

As explained by Android Authority and AppleInsider, when accessing the Cupertino service app with an Android TV device, the 'Buy' button is no longer displayed when selecting a movie or series. Now, only the 'How to Watch' option appears, which lets the audience know they should use: whether an iPhone, iPad or other streaming device.

It is important to note that blocking purchases or rentals in the Apple TV app does not affect Apple TV content. However, The Verge points out that you can no longer create a new subscription to the streaming service from an Android TV or Google TV device. For this, the application requires doing so through the web.

The payment of commissions would be the main reason for Apple TV's blocking of Android TV

So far, neither Apple nor Google have made any public statements about it. However, blocking Apple TV on Android TV could be another chapter in the old dispute over in-app purchase fees.

Apparently, the people of Cupertino made the decision not to have to pay Google a percentage of every transaction made from a device with their software. It is worth remembering that the people of Mountain View maintain a 30% stake in every new purchase, rental or subscription created through their platform. However, it is not clear whether Apple will have to pay this amount or if it is a small commission.

It's also important to note that the Apple TV app continues to work without restrictions on other non-Android devices. Such is the case with PlayStation and Xbox consoles, Samsung smart TVs and LG and Roku devices, to name a few.

It is important to emphasize that this is not the first time that Apple has made such a determination. Devices in Amazon's Fire TV ecosystem have experienced the same problem as Android TV and Google TV; that is, the Apple TV app does not allow buying or renting content, which will surely also involve the payment of commissions.

The short time Apple TV has on Google platforms is striking

It's been less than a year since Apple TV appeared massively on Android TV and Google TV devices. Although some teams began receiving support for Apple's service at the end of 2020, it wasn't until the beginning of June that the official launch was announced.

It will be necessary to see how Google reacts to the decision of the company led by Tim Cook. And from the user's point of view, beyond the bad news due to the loss of part of the functionality of the service, they can at least feel peace of mind that they can continue to access the Apple TV catalog without restrictions.

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