Substack is expanding its platform beyond newsletters with the launch of a TV app for Apple TV and Google TV, the company announced Thursday. The beta app allows subscribers to watch video posts and livestreams from Substack authors directly on their televisions.

The TV app features a "For You" row, similar to TikTok, which highlights videos from creators and provides recommendations. Both free and paid subscribers can access the app, with content availability determined by their subscription level. Substack plans to introduce paid content previews for free subscribers in the future.

Future updates will include audio posts and read-aloud features, improved search and discovery functionalities, in-app upgrades to paid subscriptions, and dedicated sections for each publication, enabling subscribers to explore all videos from specific creators.

This move signifies Substack's increased investment in video and livestreaming, positioning it to compete with platforms like YouTube and Patreon. The company began its foray into video with the introduction of video posts in 2022 and enabled creators to monetize their videos early last year. Livestreaming capabilities were rolled out around the same time.

The launch of the TV app represents a significant step in Substack's evolution as a multimedia platform, aiming to provide creators with more avenues to connect with their audience and monetize their content. The company hopes to attract both creators and viewers seeking alternatives to established video platforms.