Surprisingly, Apple has decided to block the option that allows you to buy or rent content through the Apple TV app on those devices that use Google TV or Android TV.
Although they have not explained why they took this measure, it would be related to the well-known dispute over the payment of commissions for transactions carried out within the Google Play Store.
Apple removes certain features from its streaming platform on Android TV
Thanks to the fact that the update has already been applied worldwide, it can be seen that when accessing the Cupertino service application from an Android TV device, the “Buy” button no longer appears when selecting a series or movie.
In addition, the button that allowed to rent that content cannot be found either. To replace those two options, Apple decided to put an option called “How to watch” , which tells the public that they must use an iPhone, iPad or macOS computer to view that content.
Why has Apple made this decision?
As we explained to you above, Apple made this decision so as not to have to continue paying Google a percentage for each transaction made from an Android device.
It is worth clarifying that the Apple TV app continues to work without any restrictions on devices other than Android. In other words, PlayStation and Xbox consoles, as well as Smart TVs from Samsung and LG, will continue to be fully featured.
From now on, we recommend you not to look for tricks or install an old version of Apple TV on your Android TV, as these functions have been removed from the servers of the Cupertino company.
Without anything else to add in this regard, in case you do not have an iOS device and you do not want to lose these functions when opening Apple TV, you must purchase a Smart TV with Roku, an operating system that will be able to continue enjoying those characteristics of the service from Apple.
