Apple Music for Android emerges from beta in newest app update

The app update incorporates "equalizer settings and a variety of performance, playback, and stability improvements," according to release notes. The download is free for devices running Android 4.3 or later, though most features require a monthly subscription.

Apple has only gradually brought Android support up to par with iOS. Initially, for instance, Android users couldn't access music videos or in-app sign-ups for Family plans.

The platform does offer some unique perks however, including the ability to save music to an SD card, and a home screen widget for quick playback control and track information.

Apple is normally resistant to supporting Android, preferring to nudge people into buying iPhones and iPads. The company has just three Android apps in all, one of which is actually a tool for migrating to iOS.

With Apple Music though the company was in a position of having to support legacy Beats Music subscribers on Android, and wanting to maximize the service's future listener base. Android is the world's most popular mobile OS, and even people who own iPhones and iPads might be reluctant to subscribe to a service that doesn't work across platforms.