United Airlines App Update Allows Free Media Streaming on Flights

Back in March, United Airlines announced that it would be updating both its iOS app and fleet to allow travelers to view free movies and television shows while connected to its Wi-Fi network. Today, the app update went through to complete that process.

Using United’s app, passengers will be able to view more than 150 movies and nearly 200 TV shows in the air when on planes that offer Wi-Fi access. It’s unclear whether you’ll need to pay for the Wi-Fi access to view media, or if simply connecting to the network will enable the service.

The service was expected to reach Airbus A319 and 320 and Boeing 747-400 and 777-200 planes first before spreading to other fleet models. Those with upcoming flights can check for availability under the Amenities tab on the app (or the Inflight Amenities section on united.com) within 48 hours before takeoff.

United says that laptop users can also access the service — we imagine pointing your browser towards united.com should help start that process — while an Android app update will bring the service to that platform later this year.