Google has been actively updating its user interfaces across various apps. Just recently we learned that the Google app on Android is yet again testing bottom search bar placement, and it seems the Play Store could be the latest to receive some attention. While the overall layout of a product page remains largely unchanged, the alleged redesign hints at several refinements that bring a more modern and streamlined feel to the Google Play Store.

One noticeable change is the adoption of Material You design principles, aligning the Play Store’s aesthetic with the current Android experience. App logos have been slightly reduced in size, and the publisher and app names have shifted positions. Unlike before, the app name now appears below the publisher’s name, as seen in the screengrab below shared by GamerStones.

Google-Play-Store-product-page-redesign
Old (left) vs New (right)

Previously, a drop-down arrow beside the “Install” button allowed users to choose a device from a list for installation. This option is going away, as per the redesigned interface. Additionally, download information like app size, reviews, and total downloads has been repositioned, removing the slide menu found in the older version.

It appears this redesign is currently undergoing A/B testing since we haven’t been able to trigger it from our end but our tipster did see the changes briefly, only for the Play Store to revert to the familiar layout shortly after. This is a common practice for Google, allowing them to gather feedback before officially committing to a new design.

I find the aesthetic changes pleasing — the updated look feels cleaner and puts a bit more emphasis on the app itself. However, if this design comes into effect, I’ll surely miss the quick device selection offered by the drop-down arrow. It’ll be interesting to see if Google brings back a similar feature or if users will adjust to manually choosing where to install.

Hillary Keverenge
2119 Posts

Tech has been my playground for over a decade. While the Android journey began early, it truly took flight with the revolutionary Lollipop update. Since then, it's been a parade of Android devices (with a sprinkle of iOS), culminating in a mostly happy marriage with Google's smart home ecosystem. Expect insightful articles and explorations of the ever-evolving world of Android and Google products coupled with occasional rants on the Nest smart home ecosystem.

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