Although the Google Play Store is dominated by a game billing model in which the basic use is free, but additional functions, content or benefits are paid for, there are still a significant number of titles that are one-time purchases. It is for such games that Google is testing a new option called “Try before you buy”, which would allow users to try the complete game for a limited period of time before purchasing.
According to this information, in Google Play Store version 49.6.19-29, parts of the program code were observed that clearly indicate this functionality. Messages such as “Try before you buy”, “Time starts when you open the game” and “Get the full game for 1 hour at no charge” appear in the code, suggesting that users may be able to play the full game for one hour for free.
Google makes it possible – try before you buy
Unlike the previous practice, where developers had to publish special demo versions with limited content, the new option would allow access to the complete version of the game. More importantly, if the user decides to make a purchase after the trial period, all progress made in the game would be automatically retained, without the need to start over.
It is important to note that the activation of this function will not be mandatory, but will depend on the decision of the developers themselves. Also, it is a test phase, so it is not yet known when Google could officially introduce this option, or whether it will be available to the general public.
Nevertheless, such a move is seen as a positive signal in the industry, as it could reduce the risk when buying paid games and increase user confidence. There is also an expectation that a similar model could be extended to other types of applications in the future, which would represent additional value for the Android ecosystem, reports Android Authority.