Google has released a new beta version of its Android Search app, which it hopes will change the way we interact with apps.
The new beta features the Android Instant Apps platform, which enables users to stream apps from the web, rather than download them from the Play Store.
First announced at Google I/O earlier this year, the functionality will enable users to try apps out before committing to the install.
See also: Google I/O 2016 – As it happened
Right now Google is rolling it out with a few select partners, such as Halfbrick’s classic slasher Fruit Ninja.
Currently it offers users a demo of the app, which is relatively unstable, but in the future Google plans to roll out full functionality.
The idea is geared towards supporting Google’s mobile ads business.
If users are getting most of their content from apps, rather than from the web, then Google loses out big time when it comes to selling ads.
The plan, Google hopes, will keep Android users coming to the web for their content, which allows it to make bank from serving ads.
You can see a little preview of the app streaming in the video (via 9to5Google) below. Here are some details from Google on becoming a tester.
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Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
