Google Play Introduces App Performance Warning Feature
Have you ever downloaded an app or game from Google Play, only to find out it doesn’t work properly on your smartphone or tablet? You’re not alone. Many users have experienced this frustrating issue with apps, games, and utilities on their Android devices. But now, a new feature from Google Play aims to help users avoid this annoyance altogether.
What is the Feature?
The new feature is an app performance warning that alerts users if an app is expected to run improperly on their device. The warning is based on data from “users on a similar device,” which means it is tailored to each individual user. This information is gathered and analyzed by Google Play to compare the user’s phone or tablet to other devices with similar hardware and screen specifications. If the app is known to have issues with a similar device, the warning will appear for that particular user.
How Does it Work?
The app performance warning feature is part of a plan from Google Play that was presented last year. The Play Store reportedly gauges app performance up to a threshold of 8% per a specific configuration. If an app starts misbehaving for 8% or more users with a similar configuration, the warning will pop up for those who have the same type of hardware. This helps prevent users from becoming disappointed and also provides feedback to developers regarding specific user groups. If developers start receiving feedback from users on a similar device, they can make informed decisions about dedicating resources to fix the issues.
Why is it Important?
The new app performance warning feature is a great step forward for clarity on the Play Store. It acknowledges the reality that app-related issues can stem from a myriad of reasons, including hardware, screen resolution, and Android version. By providing users with a warning tailored to their device, they can decide whether or not to download an app, game, or utility that may not work properly on their device. And for developers, this feature serves as a healthy form of public shaming. By providing specific user group data, developers can prioritize fixing app performance issues and improve overall app quality.
