The time has finally come: Apple Music is now fully available on Android.
Originally making its debut on June 30, 2015, Apple's music streaming service had always been an iOS-exclusive affair. However, it seemed like Android users would soon be able to get in on the action when a beta emerged.
Now, after sitting in beta for nearly a year and going through a variety of augmentations, Apple Music has finally rolled out on Android. Sitting at version 1.0.0, the music streaming app is available to download for free from the Google Play Store; however, just like the iOS version, many of its features require a monthly subscription.
So, what's new to this app now that it's out of beta? The only real addition is the equalizer settings, which weren't originally ported from iOS because they don't exist in the original version of the app and are instead located in the iOS Settings app. With the equalizer settings in place, however, users now have greater control over the manner in which they play content purchased through Apple Music and iTunes.
Moreover, the features that Android users can expect to find in Apple Music have been the ones that were gradually added as the lengthy beta was underway, such as access to music videos and in-app sign-ups for Family plans.
By now, it should be no secret that Apple is typically apprehensive about supporting Android, and instead opts to encourage people to buy iPhones and iPads. To date, the company has just three Android apps in all, and one of them is merely a tool for migrating to iOS.
However, Apple Music on Android presented an opportunity that was too good for the company to pass up. By having the service on a rival mobile OS, Apple would be able to support legacy Beats Music subscribers on Android, which would grant them the chance to maximize the service's future user base.
With that in mind, Apple took the plunge and introduced Apple Music to Android — all while adding features to the service that set it apart from its iOS counterpart. For example, the Android port lets users save music to SD cards for offline listening and supports a home screen widget that offers easily accessible playback controls.
All in all, with Apple Music available on Android, users now have an alternative to services like Spotify designed for smartphone and tablet users looking for a reliable on-demand music service at relatively affordable rates, especially considering the amount of exclusive content it offers.
Apple Music for Android (4.3 and up) is available on the Play Store.
