Hidden Google Play Store Feature That Can Help You Save Hours Of Time

Google Play Store is the go-to app store for millions of Android users to download and discover apps. Over the years, the tech giant has rolled out several redesigns and features that make it really useful. One of the most noticeable changes was the repositioning of the search bar in August last year, a move that continues to shape user experiences.

The Search Bar Change

In August last year, Google moved the Play Store's Search bar from the top of the screen to the bottom bar in the form of a button. While this was a welcome change for some, it requires users to make two taps if they want to search for an app, book, or other things on the Google Play Store. This small change has sparked different reactions among users.

A Hassle for Frequent Users

If you are someone who barely opens the Play Store, this may not matter much, but it may be a hassle if you frequently launch the Play Store to install, uninstall, or update apps. For heavy users, the additional tap creates an unnecessary step in an otherwise streamlined process.

A Simple Trick for Quick Access

However, there's a simple trick that will avoid this and quickly access the search bar's text box with a single tap. The next time you open the Google Play Store, simply double-tap on the Search button located in the middle of the bottom bar, and the Play Store will directly let you tap in the search box. This shortcut saves time and makes searching more efficient.

Universal Search Function

Google Play Store's search bar looks across all content on the platform and is not limited only to apps, meaning you can search for books or movies using the redesigned search button. This makes the platform a one-stop hub for a variety of digital content, expanding beyond just apps.

New Features on Play Store

To give you a quick recap, Google recently added a new "auto-open when ready" toggle, which, as the name suggests, automatically launches the app when it's installed. This is really useful for people who install an app and forget to launch it afterwards. It reduces friction and makes the installation-to-usage process much smoother.

Competition and Regulation

In the Epic Games vs Google case, the tech giant's request to freeze a court order that forced it to restore competition by allowing users to download rival app stores from the Play Store was declined. This means Google will soon allow third-party app stores like Aptoide and TapTap to list themselves on the Play Store. This could reshape the app ecosystem in the coming years.

What It Means for Users

For users, these changes indicate a more competitive and flexible Play Store environment. Having access to third-party app stores within the same ecosystem could give users more variety, freedom of choice, and possibly even better deals.

Balancing Usability and Innovation

Google continues to balance usability with innovation. While the search bar redesign initially frustrated some users, the hidden double-tap trick, combined with new features like auto-open, shows how the company is trying to refine the experience while complying with regulatory changes.