Customers who own Android TV and Google TV devices will no longer be able to use the Apple TV app to buy or rent a movie

Apple and Google's app store commission fees have been the subject of considerable debate over the last two years. There has been a backlash from developers and content creators, but there has been little animosity between the companies themselves.

Customers who own Android TV and Google TV devices will no longer be able to use the Apple TV app to buy or rent movies.

The Apple TV app is available on a variety of smart TVs, streaming set-top boxes, and other devices, giving users access to programming from Apple's stores. A recent app update appears to have prevented users from making purchases within the app on certain platforms.

According to reports, the ability to buy or rent movies or TV shows from the Apple TV app on Android TV and Google TV devices has been removed and has been replaced by a new "How to Watch" button. When users click the button, they are informed that "you can buy, rent, or subscribe to the Apple TV app on iPhone, iPad, and other streaming devices."

However, Apple TV+ content is not affected by this new policy, which only affects new purchases and rentals. Any rentals or purchases made prior to the update, or through other platforms, can still be viewed on the affected devices.

Apple has yet to make a statement on this matter. According to sources, it is most likely a response to Google's 30% commissions (even though Apple's fee may be lower than 30%). The only logical conclusion is that the change only applies to content purchased or rented, and not to content streamed through Apple TV+.

For the time being, it appears that the Apple TV+ app is available on other third-party platforms that are not subject to the same restrictions. Roku TVs, as well as Samsung and LG smart TVs, are included in this category.