Google rumoured to be re-thinking its revenue sharing with app developers

After Apple announced its new plan for app developers, Google’s reportedly thinking of doing the same thing for its own developers. According to Recode, though, the 85/15 revenue split Google also plans to implement will begin immediately. It won’t require developers to have a user subscribe for one year before the new revenue sharing method kicks in, which is what Apple is doing. Unnamed sources said Google has been trying this out with entertainment companies over a year ago with video services to boost its offerings as well as have them work on its TV streaming devices such as the Cast dongle. There isn’t any confirmation yet, though, if Google will implement this and when. Google has long been trying to get developers to invest in its platform like they do with Apple so we won’t be surprised if the tech giant does resolve to do this.

Source: Recode

Google Play starts showing icon for Android Wear-compatible apps

While it could be easier to browse for Android Wear-compatible apps through a link in the Android Wear application, sometimes you’re just browsing through Play Store and looking for new apps to try out. Some apps on the Play Store now show a watch icon to denote that they support Google’s wearable platform. You can see it just below the “What’s New” section and near the age rating after you tap on “Read More.” The icon shown after you tap on “Read More” has the words “Enhanced for Android Wear” attached to it. Hopefully, Google brings this soon to all Android Wear-compatible apps.

Source: Android Central

Google Play introduces ‘Free App of the Week’ in the Family section

Google’s recently introduced Family section in the Google Play Store is bringing a first for Google—a “Free App of the Week” section. This time the PBS Kids’ app Daniel Tiger Grr-ific Feelings is the first app that’ll be free. Google previously only let app developers give discounts for their paid apps but they’ve never let them give it away for free before. Of course, it’s expected to go back to being paid next week. However, it would seem you’ll need to look for the free app banner on Google Play because it still shows as a US$2.99 app on its page.

Source: Android Central  

‘Terminator Genisys: Revolution’ app is the first to allow pre-registration on Google Play Store

Google’s trying out a new feature on its app store and the first app to make use of it is the upcoming Terminator Genisys: Revolution game from Glu Mobile. Now, users can pre-register the game from the Play Store. It takes the place of the install/buy button on the app’s Play Store page.

Pre-registering doesn’t mean you agree to buy the game. It’s just a way to tip users that the app or game is already available for purchase or installation. You can even unregister if you change your mind.

Source: Android Police