Google Play’s content often costs less than iTunes and offers a huge selection of movies and TV shows. Overall, for a new release, Google Play for iOS offers a convenient way to enjoy movies and TV shows on your iOS device. Hopefully, Google will address this in an update. The ability to download content would also make it possible to enjoy content offline, when an Internet connection is not available. Most people have Internet connection speeds that support Google Play streaming.
Users with very slow Internet connections may find this inconvenient. Google Play only supports streaming over WiFi networks. Simply point your browser to Google Play to make a purchase. As mentioned, this isn’t much of an inconvenience. The Google Play app doesn’t support in-app content purchases. Keep in mind, Chromecast is not a standalone device, but requires a mobile device or computer to act as a controller. Chromecast is a great alternative for those who just want a basic streaming device.
Google’s video streaming technology also supports Netflix, YouTube, HBO GO, Hulu Plus and Pandora, in addition to Google Play.
Chromecast works with a variety of other devices, including Android mobile devices, Macs and Windows PCs. Once installed, users can stream video from an iOS device using Chromecast. Chromecast is a small profile device that plugs directly into the HDMI port of any flat screen TV. Users wishing to watch Google Play on the big screen can purchase a Chromecast streaming device. AirPlay Mirroring will work, but offers poor video quality. It doesn’t have built-in support for AirPlay. The Google Play app for iOS was just released, so there are a few limitations.
Look for free episodes at the bottom of the Google Play Movies and TV shows page. This is a great way to test-drive Google Play for iOS. Users are required to create a Google Wallet account in order to download free episodes, however, no charges are applied. Google Play also offers free episodes of TV shows. The savings may justify purchasing a $35 Chromecast streaming device. That’s a compelling reason to use Google Play.
Google Play offers the same movie for only $3.99. For example, a new release like Captain Phillips costs $4.99 to rent on iTunes. Many of their movie rentals are $1 less than iTunes. IOS users may wonder why they would use Google Play instead of iTunes. Users can purchase content on their iOS device using Safari, Chrome, or any web browser. Once the transaction is complete, your movie or TV show will appear in the Google Play app. Simply go to the Google Play website to purchase content. Google Play for iOS does not allow in-app content purchases. If you want to beam Google Play content onto your TV, consider purchasing the Chromecast device. It is possible to use AirPlay Mirroring with Google Play, however, the quality leaves much to be desired. Much of the tech press claims that Google Play for iOS does not support AirPlay. The app allows users to play movies and TV shows purchased or rented from Google Play. The Google Play iOS app is currently available in both iPad and iPhone/iPod Touch versions. With hundreds of millions of users, iOS is a market that can’t be ignored. This move demonstrates Google’s commitment to provide apps and content for Apple devices. Google Play for iOS adds even more options and is a great addition for iOS users who have adopted Chromecast. 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 is now available for your iPhone, iPad and iPod touch. IOS users now have another option for movies and TV shows.