Google Play for iOS

iOS users now have another option for movies and TV shows. Google Play is now available for your iPhone, iPad and iPod touch.

With iTunes, Netflix, Hulu Plus, Amazon and other content providers in the fold, Apple's iOS mobile operating system has a lot of content. Google Play for iOS adds even more options and is a great addition for iOS users who have adopted Chromecast. This move demonstrates Google's commitment to provide apps and content for Apple devices. With hundreds of millions of users, iOS is a market that can't be ignored.

Google Play iOS App

The Google Play iOS app is currently available in both iPad and iPhone/iPod Touch versions. The app allows users to play movies and TV shows purchased or rented from Google Play.

Much of the tech press claims that Google Play for iOS does not support AirPlay. It is possible to use AirPlay Mirroring with Google Play, however, the quality leaves much to be desired. If you want to beam Google Play content onto your TV, consider purchasing the Chromecast device.

turn on AirPlay screen mirroring

How to Buy Movies and TV Shows

Google Play for iOS does not allow in-app content purchases. This minor obstacle is easily overcome. Simply go to the Google Play website to purchase content. Once the transaction is complete, your movie or TV show will appear in the Google Play app. Users can purchase content on their iOS device using Safari, Chrome, or any web browser.

purchase movies and TV shows from the Google Play website

Why Use Google Play?

iOS users may wonder why they would use Google Play instead of iTunes. Google Play often has better prices. Many of their movie rentals are $1 less than iTunes. For example, a new release like Captain Phillips costs $4.99 to rent on iTunes. Google Play offers the same movie for only $3.99. That's a compelling reason to use Google Play. The savings may justify purchasing a $35 Chromecast streaming device.

Google Play also offers free episodes of TV shows. Users are required to create a Google Wallet account in order to download free episodes, however, no charges are applied. This is a great way to test-drive Google Play for iOS. Look for free episodes at the bottom of the Google Play Movies and TV shows page.

Limitations

The Google Play app for iOS was just released, so there are a few limitations. It doesn't have built-in support for AirPlay. AirPlay Mirroring will work, but offers poor video quality.

Users wishing to watch Google Play on the big screen can purchase a Chromecast streaming device. Chromecast is a small profile device that plugs directly into the HDMI port of any flat screen TV. Once installed, users can stream video from an iOS device using Chromecast. Chromecast works with a variety of other devices, including Android mobile devices, Macs and Windows PCs.

Google's video streaming technology also supports Netflix, YouTube, HBO GO, Hulu Plus and Pandora, in addition to Google Play. Chromecast is a great alternative for those who just want a basic streaming device. Keep in mind, Chromecast is not a standalone device, but requires a mobile device or computer to act as a controller. Think of it as an audio/visual receiver.

The Google Play app doesn't support in-app content purchases. As mentioned, this isn't much of an inconvenience. Simply point your browser to Google Play to make a purchase.

Google Play only supports streaming over WiFi networks. Users with very slow Internet connections may find this inconvenient. Most people have Internet connection speeds that support Google Play streaming. The ability to download content would also make it possible to enjoy content offline, when an Internet connection is not available. Hopefully, Google will address this in an update.

Overall, for a new release, Google Play for iOS offers a convenient way to enjoy movies and TV shows on your iOS device. Google Play's content often costs less than iTunes and offers a huge selection of movies and TV shows. For those who like to read, check out the Google Play Books app for iOS.

UPDATES:

  • Apple TV can now play Google Play movies and TV shows directly, without using AirPlay. This is feature is available in the YouTube app for tvOS. For more information, please read "Watch Google Play Movies and TV Shows on Apple TV".
  • AirPlay is now supported on the Google Play iOS app. Now you can stream HD video to your Apple TV using the Google Play app.
  • Google Play for iOS now supports downloads. Simply tap the download icon on a movie or TV show and the video will begin downloading. Once saved to your device, the video can be viewed offline.