Google opens Play Store to AI-built apps

In Short

Google is making the Play Store into a personal place where people can build apps, find games and stay connected using smart tools.

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Google is changing the way people use the Play Store. Of just getting apps and games the company is adding features that let users make their own apps find content, with smart helpers and discover games that match what they like.

One of the biggest changes is aimed at people who have never considered themselves app developers. Google is now allowing users to build apps for their own use with Google AI Studio and run those apps privately on their Android devices through Google Play.

The feature is currently rolling out in select markets, including the US, and is available to users aged 18 and above. Importantly, users do not need a professional developer account. A standard Google account is enough to create and use these personal apps.

These apps will not appear in the public Play Store catalogue. Google says they will remain private, although users will be able to share them with friends and family in the coming months. Anyone looking to eventually publish an app publicly will still need a developer account and will have to meet Google's regular safety and quality requirements.

AI comes deeper into the Play Store

Google is also giving users new ways to decide which apps are worth downloading. Its Ask Play feature can compare multiple apps, point out their differences and summarise user sentiment. This could save users from jumping between several app listings and scrolling through lengthy review sections.

The company is also integrating Play Store content into Gemini conversations. Soon, users will be able to discover apps, games and developer content directly while interacting with Google's AI assistant.

Gaming gets a more personalised approach

For gamers, Google is introducing Game Finder, which uses preferences such as favourite genres and gameplay mechanics to suggest titles. It can also show what people with similar tastes are playing and provide summaries of player reviews.

Game Playlists will allow users to organise games into collections and eventually share them. Google is also introducing 48-hour Sprints, where groups of two to five players can take part in short gaming challenges. On supported devices, the updated Sidekick overlay will allow players to record 30-second gameplay clips.

Google is expanding PC gaming on Play bringing Game Trials for premium games. Play Fest will provide rewards like Play Points multipliers, in-game items and special deals from developers.

For parents, Family Link now includes an option that allows apps to get age-range information. This helps apps give content that matches a child's age without needing personal details.

Google is turning the Play Store into more than an app store. With AI playing a role in how people find and create content the platform is becoming more personal. Users will get experiences that fit them better through smarter tools and features.

Kahekashan is a passionate technophile with a keen eye for cutting-edge gadgets, emerging technologies, and everything in the digital realm. Raised in a Defence family with strong values and a background in literature, she has consistently pursued excellence in every endeavour. Her last full-time assignment involved content writing with the Indian School of Business.

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