Google Play Store Tests 'Watch Others Play' Section

27 May 2020, 15:57

Google appears to be testing a new heading on its Play Store called 'watch others play'. This new section allows users to view gameplay highlights before purchasing. Reported by 9to5 and Android Police this new function on the store hints at more cross-integration between existing Google services such as YouTube.

The function is in its very early and limited stages of testing so few know about what the future will hold. However, users have spotted the section on the popular PUBG Mobile game which has a large existing YouTube audience.

Uncertainty Around the Details

With this function being in the early stages of A/B testing very little is known about its final form. It is unclear as to when this update will be rolled out, perhaps in a new Play Store update in the coming months. Speculation suggests that it would be a more useful tool on games that already have an existing YouTube audience. However, where this function will be used is also unknown.

It seems to be somewhat of a waiting game for details on this topic. This type of testing interface is hardly uncommon but users will have to wait and see. It may re-appear in the coming months or Google may roll it out more widely as time goes on. The success of this new function will also be under the microscope as people will be asking whether this makes customers more or less likely to purchase games.

Google Moving Towards Cross-Platform Integration

Although the 'watch others play' section is in very limited testing on the Google Play Store it hints at more cross-platform integration from the company. The hope will be that this will make customers more likely to purchase games by giving them greater insight.

As stated, this test appears to be in its very early stages and as a result, the details surrounding it are unclear. Reports are unsure as to whether videos will launch within the Play Store or on YouTube itself. Potentially Google may use this 'watch others play' section to promote its YouTube gaming partners. This would link in with the idea that Google is looking for more integration and cross-promotion across its services.

Overall, this looks like a promising new addition to the Play Store, which recently added Fortnite to its listings. By adding the 'watch others play' section Google is clearly trying to integrate their other services. More details are likely to emerge over time but for now, there is fairly little to go on in terms of firm facts.