Play Store now lets you search Android app reviews, ditches ‘this device model’ filter

Google is enhancing the user experience in the Play Store with some notable updates, introducing a keyword search feature for app reviews while simultaneously removing the “device model” filter.

On the positive side, users can now utilize a keyword search to sift through reviews for Android apps. This feature, which has begun to roll out widely, allows individuals to search for specific terms within reviews, making it easier to identify common issues or experiences shared by other users. This addition, while seemingly basic, fills a long-standing gap in the Play Store’s functionality, providing a more efficient way to troubleshoot problems by examining the feedback of fellow users.

However, this update comes with a downside. The “this device model” filter, previously available in the Play Store, has been removed. Users could once filter reviews based on their specific device model, which was particularly useful for discerning whether an issue was unique to their device or a broader app problem. Although the “latest version” filter has been relocated to a more prominent position at the top of the screen, the absence of the device-specific filter may leave some users feeling at a disadvantage when trying to find relevant feedback.

While the new keyword search feature enhances the ability to gauge overall app performance and user satisfaction, the lack of a device filter could complicate the process for those seeking tailored insights specific to their hardware.

These changes have not been officially announced by Google, but they have been observed in the latest updates to the Play Store.

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Play Store now lets you search Android app reviews, ditches ‘this device model’ filter