HTC launches the first Android phone to support Apple’s AirPlay

Last year, Apple surprised a lot of people when it started working on and releasing apps developed for Android. This obviously includes not only the content transfer app, SmartIO, which allows Android users to move all major data from an Android device to an iOS device. Apple also released Apple Music, an Android app that Apple developed in an attempt to expand its market for its music service.

The friendly rivalry between the two companies has now seen an interesting turn since HTC unveiled the new HTC 10. If you’re wondering how the HTC 10 changes things between Apple and Android, well this is the first time that an Android device will provide out-of-the-box support to Apple’s AirPlay streaming service.

On Tuesday, HTC unveiled the HTC 10 which is a departure from the company’s previous flagship phones. Unlike its predecessors, the HTC 10 packs a class-leading battery life, an industrial camera, and arguably the most responsive touch experience. As mentioned before, the HTC 10 is also the first Android device to come packaged with support for Apple’s proprietary AirPlay wireless streaming standard. Furthermore, since HTC is an official licensee of the streaming service, support will remain updated on the fly… as Apple rolls it out.

There is a catch, however. AirPlay support for the HTC 10 does not include support for video streaming, only audio streaming is possible. But still, we think this is pretty great progress. Anyone getting the device could be a step closer to having a device that gives them a semblance of the best of both worlds. Only time will tell how the service fares on Android devices and more; and if Apple has been able to successfully create a product that can transcend operating systems.