The apps you need to watch movies and TV on your phone

This article has been updated. Originally published June 5, 2017.

Ten years ago, watching movies on phones was unimaginable. Today, mobile binge-watching is commonplace. The key is having the right apps. Let's explore the best options for enjoying movies and TV shows on your smartphone. Get your popcorn ready!

Streaming Services

Major streaming services offer extensive movie and TV libraries for a monthly fee. Content streams directly to your phone, but access ends when you cancel your subscription. Digital ownership isn't included.

Amazon Prime Video

A must-have for Prime members, offering a vast library of movies, TV shows, and original content (like The Boys and Transparent). A strong reason to join Prime, but Prime Video is also available as a standalone subscription. The app's interface isn't as polished as competitors. Prime membership (including shipping benefits) costs $119 annually or $13 monthly; Prime Video alone is $9 monthly.

Amazon Prime Video is available for Android and iOS. Included with Amazon Prime or $9/month separately.

Hulu

Often overshadowed by Netflix, Hulu boasts more current TV shows and channels, ideal for primetime viewing. The basic plan includes ads; original programming and movies lag behind Netflix. Subscription costs are $7/month (with ads) or $13/month (ad-free). A $70/month plan adds live TV (75 channels).

Hulu is available for Android and iOS, starting at $7/month.

Netflix

A pioneer of on-demand streaming, Netflix popularized the subscription model. While third-party content has decreased, its original shows remain highly popular. The app consistently sets a high standard for mobile viewing. Plans begin at $10/month; HD and 4K require higher tiers.

Netflix is available for Android and iOS, starting at $10/month.

Sling TV

A leader in mobile live TV, Sling offers 200 live channels and 85,000 on-demand titles. Channel selection varies by subscription tier. The basic plan starts at $35/month, with cancel-anytime flexibility.

Sling TV is available for Android and iOS, starting at $35/month.

YouTube TV

Leveraging YouTube's video expertise, YouTube TV provides live channels from major networks (ABC, CBS, Fox, NBC, etc.) and cloud DVR functionality. Subscriptions cost $65/month.

YouTube TV is available for Android and iOS for $65/month.

Disney

A newer service, Disney offers Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic content, including movies like Moana and Frozen, classics like Snow White, and hit shows like The Mandalorian. The app's user experience isn't perfect, but the content library is compelling. It costs $8/month or $80/year.

Disney is available for Android and iOS, starting at $8/month.

Specific Channel and Carrier Apps

Major networks and carriers now offer dedicated apps. We've highlighted standalone options, usable regardless of cable subscription.

DirecTV Stream

Targeting cord-cutters, DirecTV Stream offers broad device compatibility, numerous channels and shows (HBO requires extra cost, CBS is absent), and a mix of live and on-demand content. Cloud DVR is planned. Pricing starts at $70/month, with more channels at higher tiers.

DirecTV Stream is available for Android and iOS, starting at $70/month.

HBO Max

Appealing to cord-cutters (also included with existing subscriptions), HBO Max offers a rotating movie selection and acclaimed TV shows (Game of Thrones, Westworld, etc.), plus Warner Bros. content (Friends, etc.). A month-long free trial is available, followed by a $10/month subscription.

HBO Max is available for Android and iOS, starting at $10/month.

Showtime Anytime

Watch Showtime on your phone without a cable subscription for $11/month (30-day free trial available). The app offers live TV, on-demand viewing, and classic shows, with helpful lists and reminders.

Showtime Anytime is available for Android and iOS, starting at $11/month.

Digital Stores and Other Options

Streaming services don't provide permanent access. Digital stores offer permanent video ownership, eliminating monthly fees.

Google Play Movies & TV

Google's digital store offers extensive content, playable across various devices (web browsers, iOS, Android, smart TVs). Purchases stream like Netflix, with optional downloads for offline viewing. It integrates with Google TV and YouTube. The interface is clean and intuitive.

Google Play Movies & TV is available for Android and iOS.

Apple TV

Apple's digital store offers a vast library of movies and shows, including past iTunes purchases. It provides a wide selection, from popular TV shows to new releases and exclusive content.

Apple TV is built into iOS.

Plex

Plex functions as a personal Netflix, streaming video from your computer or networked drive to various devices, including smartphones. The app is user-friendly. A Plex Pass ($5/month, $40/year, or $120 lifetime) is required for mobile viewing.

Plex is available for Android and iOS, starting at $5/month.

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