The Google Play Store is getting a big revamp! It’s aiming to be more than just a place to download apps. Here’s a breakdown of the exciting new features:
Finding the Apps You Need
- Collections: This new feature groups updates from similar apps together. Imagine having updates from your running apps (Strava, MyFitnessTracker) all in one place! No more jumping between apps to see what’s new. The same goes for shopping apps (Walmart, Adidas) or social media apps.
- Personalized Recommendations: Google will suggest apps and content based on what you already use. This should help you discover new apps you might enjoy.
Going Beyond Apps
- Google Comics (Japan Only for Now): Calling all manga and webtoon fans! Google is launching a curated comics store in Japan, offering recommendations and a user-friendly reading experience.
- Entertainment is Next: The success of Google Comics might lead to a similar section for movies, TV shows, or music in the future.
Gaming Gets an Upgrade
- Play Games on PC: Get ready to seamlessly switch your mobile games to your computer with Google Play Games for PC. Start a game on your phone during your commute and finish it off on your PC at home!
- Multi-tasking for Power Gamers: Play multiple games at the same time on your PC! Juggle between an intense competition in one game while keeping an eye on resources in another (your computer’s processing power limits how many games you can run smoothly).
- More Rewards with Play Points: Use your Play Points (earned through in-app purchases) to redeem for physical Google products like Pixel phones or watches!
Staying in Control
- Privacy Matters: Don’t want to see recommendations for a specific app? You can easily turn them off. However, Google might still collect some data about your app usage.
What’s in it for Google?
While Google hasn’t revealed all its plans for making money with these new features, it likely involves deals with app developers and targeted advertising based on the data it collects about your interests.
The Future of Google Play
The messy “open-air bazaar” feel of the Google Play Store might soon be replaced by a more organized and user-friendly experience. This could make Google Play a more important part of your phone, similar to Apple’s App Store.