Google Tests 2 Play Store Features, Including Third-Party App Store Support
Updated
Updated · Android Authority · Jul 22
Google Tests 2 Play Store Features, Including Third-Party App Store Support
2 articles · Updated · Android Authority · Jul 22
Summary
Google is testing two new Play Store options in its latest app version: third-party app store support and a new "Play Labs" menu, though neither is working publicly yet.
The third-party store option aligns with Google's confirmation last week that users will be able to install new app stores directly from the Play Store, suggesting the feature is moving closer to rollout.
A new 2-row search bar already works in testing and is designed for longer natural-language queries; an "Ask Store" prompt also appears alongside it.
The changes follow a broader Play Store update earlier this week that improved search and added widget previews during app installation, with wider release expected gradually in coming weeks.
Because the findings come from an APK teardown and hidden test menus, Google could still change or drop some features before any public launch.