Google Play Introduces Innovative Payment Solution
In a move that is sure to delight app enthusiasts and developers alike, Google Play has unveiled a fresh feature that promises to streamline the purchasing process. This novel addition is a button that allows users to request payment for an app or in-app purchase from someone else, such as a friend or family member. This innovative approach generates a payment link that can be conveniently shared through the user’s preferred communication method, whether it be text messaging or email.
The initial launch of this feature is taking place in India, with keen observers eagerly awaiting news on its potential expansion to other markets. The introduction of this feature was part of a broader announcement made during the Google I/O developer conference, which also included updates on AI, Gemini, Chrome, Android, and a suite of new tools for app developers.
How does this new button work?
Developers can take advantage of this feature by incorporating version six or newer of the Play Billing Library into their apps. This integration requires no additional effort on their part to support the “ask someone else to pay for this item” button. When a user opts to use this button, they are informed that the payer will need to know their full email address, will be able to see the item being purchased, and must complete the transaction within 24 hours before the payment link expires.
The payment link is automatically created along with a brief description of the item and its price. This information is then sent to the system share sheet, giving the user the freedom to choose the recipient of the request.
While Google Play has previously allowed users to share apps within a Family Library, this new feature extends the capability to individuals outside of one’s Google family group. It is being touted as an excellent way to gift items or pay on behalf of someone else. However, it also opens up the possibility of users soliciting others to make purchases for them. Initial examples provided by Google include requesting a friend to pay a nominal amount for virtual currency in a game, illustrating a potential use case for this feature.
Aside from the “ask someone else to pay” button, Google also announced other significant billing changes, such as enabling family managers to complete purchases for child accounts via web links on non-Android devices. Family managers can use any payment method in their Google payments profile, including gift cards, for these transactions. Additionally, Google has increased the Play Store’s app price limit, adjusted price ranges to reflect currency changes, introduced badges for trending items, and launched a new payment option for long-term subscriptions in select countries.
These updates underscore Google Play’s commitment to enhancing the user and developer experience, ensuring that the platform remains a leading destination for app distribution and discovery.
