New Delhi: Google may soon unveil its latest Try before you buy feature on Google Play Store that would enable users to play paid Android games for free for a limited time before making final purchase. According to some reports, the feature was spotted in code strings within the Google Play Store version 49.6.18-29 and appears to be designed specifically for games that rely on a one-time upfront payment.
If it is implemented, this feature could reduce the friction for users hesitant to pay for the premium titles without first experiencing the gameplay, while also addressing long-standing challenges developers face with demos and refunds. The proposed Tyr before you buy option would let developers offer full-game access for a defined trial period. Unlike traditional demos, the trial would not require a separate application listing and would enable users to experience the complete game as intended, within the limits of natural progression.
The duration of the trial would not be fixed by Google and may instead be set by individual developers. The trial would begin the moment users open the game, and once the trial period ends, players would be prompted to purchase the full version to continue playing. Notably, the reports also suggested that the users would not lose their in-game progress if they choose to buy the game after the trial expires. Trials are also been expected that to be limited to one per game per user, in line with the standard Play Store practices. The feature is opt-in, which means developers would have control over whether their games support trial access.
