Google cuts down on bloatware on Android

Never used Google+? Now you don’t have to see that on your phone if you don’t have to. New partner guidelines from Google have taken out Google Play Games, Google Play Books, Google+, and Google Newsstand as mandatory apps to be included in all Android phones. This move helps free up more space for the apps you do want on your phone. If you, however, do use those apps, well, you can still download them on the Google Play Store.

Source: Android Central | Via: Engadget

Google starts roll out of Nearby Players feature for Play Games

Google has had plans to launch a Nearby Players feature for its Games hub and now it seems to be rolling out to users at random. Android Police reports that gamers from Mexico and Italy have been seeing the new feature crop up on their devices. Nearby Players is as it sounds like. It lets you know if someone in your vicinity is playing the game you are playing. It can be customized to show anyone using an Android or just those in your Google+ circles. It will let you look for new multiplayer matches in compatible games either through the usual online matchmaking system or from those in your area. Of course, if you don’t want to broadcast your gaming activities to those around you, you can opt out of this as well.

Source: Android Police