'More Than A Store': Google Play Store Revamped With AI-Driven Discovery, Rewards, Accessibility. Check It Out

Google is launching Collections, which will display relevant app content directly on the home screen.

Google has announced several enhancements to the Google Play store, aimed at improving the overall experience for Android users. These updates include advanced methods for discovering apps, engaging in games, earning rewards, and accessing valuable content in a more streamlined manner.

In a blog post titled "More Than A Store", Sam Bright, Vice President and General Manager of Google Play, emphasised the company's vision of transforming the Play store from a mere app repository to a comprehensive platform. "Now we’re taking Play from a destination people visit for apps to an end-to-end experience that’s more than a store. We’re introducing more ways to discover, more ways to game, more rewards, and more helpful content when and where you need it most.," Bright stated.

Google Play Pass Brings More Goodies

Google Play Pass, the subscription service offering access to over 1,000 games and apps without ads or in-app purchases, is expanding its catalogue. New games and special offers are being added, with features like multi-game capabilities on Google Play Games for PC, which allows users to run multiple games simultaneously.

Starting July 24, new offers will be available in popular games such as Asphalt Legends Unite, Call of Duty: Mobile, and Candy Crush Saga. Additionally, Kingdom Rush 5: Alliance will join the Play Pass lineup later this month. Google is also introducing Super Weekly Prizes, where Diamond, Platinum, and Gold members can win items such as Pixel devices and Razer gaming products.

New Collections Feature

To further enhance user engagement, Google is launching Collections, which will display relevant app content directly on the home screen. Users will have the ability to control how their Play data is used for personalisation.

The Collections feature, currently available in the US, organises content into categories like Shop, Watch, and Listen, showcasing content from apps users have already installed.

AI-Driven App Discovery

One of the key updates is the introduction of AI-generated app reviews and FAQs, which will assist users in making better-informed decisions. A new feature will also enable easier comparisons between similar apps. Additionally, Google is experimenting with curated spaces for specific interests such as cricket and comics, providing a more focused browsing experience. For example, a curated cricket space has been piloted in India, and a comics section is available in Japan under the 'Comics' tab on the Apps home screen.

Users will also benefit from multi-select interest filters, allowing them to specify preferences more precisely. For instance, if a user searches for a sports simulation game, they can add that specific interest to their search criteria.

Rewards, Exclusive Experiences For Play Points Members

The Google Play Points programme is also getting a boost with the introduction of Super Weekly Prizes. Collaborations with brands like Pokémon GO and Marvel are offering exclusive experiences.

For instance, during the upcoming San Diego Comic-Con, Silver+ members can access the VIP "Wheel of Champions" with opportunities to win Marvel collectibles and take photos with their favourite characters. All fans can redeem points for limited-edition Marvel Comics and Marvel Contest of Champions character bundles.