- Samsung is bringing its TV Plus app to some Galaxy phones on September 23.
- The Android app provides the same access to free TV shows and movies, including children’s shows.
- You need at least a Galaxy S10 or Note 10 to start looking.
You no longer need a Samsung TV to enjoy the free TV service. Samsung is releasing an Android version of its TV Plus app for certain Galaxy phones on September 23rd through the Galaxy Store and Google Play.
Like on the big screen, the mobile app offers “hundreds” hours of free on-demand TV shows and movies from 135 channels, including CBSN, Cheddar and Samsung’s own The Movie Hub. Parents will be happy to know that there are nine special children’s channels. Many of the titles are older or niche (such as Thelma and Louise or Gordon Ramsay Kitchen nightmares), but they can do the trick if you’re not sure what to see.
However, you need a high-end phone to start looking. Samsung limits TV Plus to variants of the Galaxy S10, Note 10, S20 and Note 20. Your cheaper phone is then not qualified.
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Samsung launched TV Plus in 2015, but it has grown in prominence during the pandemic as people start looking for things to watch during the lockdown without adding another subscription to their monthly bills. The service was usually ad-supported.
The company hasn’t said why it’s only rolling out a mobile app now, but it’s hard to ignore the timing. If normal life is likely to be on hold for a while, a free mobile TV app can keep you entertained even after you’ve exhausted your queues for paid services. Of course, it’s also an aid to Samsung’s bottom line. You may be more likely to buy a Samsung phone or TV knowing there are tons of free videos waiting for you, even if they aren’t as current as the latest original from Amazon or Netflix.