Google Play Store tests “Collections” widget hub for app discovery

Google is testing a brand new widget hub referred to as “Collections” that might be built-in into the Play Retailer to assist customers uncover new apps. This characteristic, beforehand generally known as “Cubes,” has been in growth for a while and appears to be nearing launch.

The most recent Google Play Retailer beta model (41.6.26) provides us a sneak peek into what Collections would possibly appear to be. By long-pressing the Play Retailer icon, customers can entry a context menu the place Collections resides. Upon opening the widget, acquainted Play Retailer classes corresponding to “Watch,” “Learn,” “Pay attention,” “Store,” and “Social” are displayed, every resulting in a choice of apps inside that class.

What units Collections aside is its curated method. Google partnering with choose apps to be featured inside these classes might handle a typical ache level for customers: app discovery fatigue. Scrolling by means of infinite lists of apps within the Play Retailer may be overwhelming, and it is typically troublesome to know which of them are value downloading. By showcasing a curated choice of high-quality apps, Collections can streamline the method and make it simpler for customers to seek out apps that genuinely meet their wants and pursuits.

Nonetheless, entry to Collections could be restricted at first. The characteristic appears to be geographically restricted, with the app’s code indicating that it could initially launch solely in the USA with plans to announce expansions to different nations afterward, however there is no official timeline but. This restricted rollout might be a strategic transfer by Google to assemble consumer suggestions and iron out any kinks earlier than making Collections obtainable to a wider viewers.