In an effort to enhance user experience and simplify app selection, Google is reportedly working on a subtle but important update to its Play Store. This change, discovered in a recent APK teardown of version 41.7.16-31, aims to make device-specific app ratings more accessible and visible to users.
Currently, the Google Play Store displays chips for various form factors, such as phones, tablets, and Chromebooks, on app listings. Users need to tap these chips to view the corresponding app ratings. However, the upcoming update is set to eliminate this extra step by displaying the average star rating directly within these form factor chips.
This small tweak could have a substantial impact on how users interact with the Play Store. By bringing form factor-specific ratings to the forefront, Google is making it easier for users to quickly assess an app’s performance across different devices. This is particularly beneficial for those who use multiple Android devices or are considering an app for a specific form factor.
The change was first spotted by leaker @AssembleDebug and reported by Android Authority. While the feature is not yet live, it’s a promising sign for millions of Play Store users.
This update aligns with Google’s broader strategy to cater to various form factors in the Android ecosystem. With the rising popularity of foldable devices, tablets, and Chromebooks, having easy access to device-specific ratings becomes increasingly valuable for users.
It’s worth noting that this is just one of several potential updates in the pipeline for the Play Store. Another recent discovery suggests that Google may introduce an option to automatically open newly installed apps, addressing the issue of forgotten downloads consuming storage space. Additionally, there are indications of enhanced security measures for app installations and updates.
As of writing, there’s no official timeline for when these features will roll out.
As always with features discovered in APK teardowns, there’s a possibility that these changes may not make it to the final public release. However, given the practical benefits of this ratings display update, it’s likely to be well-received by users if implemented.
