Google Play Store May Soon Offer Updates for Apps Not Originally Installed from It

Google is reportedly developing a new feature for the Google Play Store that would allow users to update apps originally downloaded from third-party sources. This innovation could significantly enhance the user experience for those who prefer sideloading apps.

The Challenge of Sideloaded Apps

Downloading apps from sources other than the Google Play Store can sometimes lead to difficulties with updates. Often, the original source might not have the latest version of the app, or finding updates can be cumbersome. Google appears to be addressing this issue with its latest development.

The “Update from Play” Feature

The new feature, tentatively named “Update from Play,” was discovered in the code of the latest Google Play Store version 42.0.18 by Android Authority. This option would allow users to update sideloaded apps directly from the Play Store. The Play Store will indicate which apps were not downloaded from it and offer the option to update these apps either from the original source or from the Play Store itself.

Benefits of the New Update System

If implemented, this feature would provide several benefits:

Increased Convenience: Users would have a more streamlined process for updating their apps, regardless of the original download source.

Enhanced Control: This feature would give users more control over their app updates, making it easier to maintain the latest versions.

Improved Clarity: The Play Store would clearly indicate the origins of the apps, helping users keep track of where their apps came from.

How It Works

When an update is available for a sideloaded app, the Play Store will show a new “Update from Play” button. This button allows users to switch update ownership from the original source to the Play Store. The app listing will include a message stating, “The app installed on your device didn’t come from Google Play. You can update the app from the original source or from Google Play.” It remains unclear if selecting this option will transfer all future updates to the Play Store, but this could be clarified once the feature is fully rolled out.

Implications for Android Users

This change could have significant implications for the Android ecosystem. While Google has always allowed sideloading of apps, this move suggests a more supportive stance towards this practice. By providing a more integrated update process, Google could improve the overall user experience and security for those who download apps from various sources.

The potential introduction of the “Update from Play” feature marks a noteworthy development in the Android app ecosystem. It represents Google’s effort to enhance user convenience and control, while also addressing the common challenges associated with sideloaded apps. As this feature progresses from code to functionality, Android users can look forward to a more seamless and integrated app updating experience.