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Google has rolled out a US feature letting Android users install apps built in AI Studio through Google Play without publishing them publicly or using a computer. The apps remain private, invisible in search and listings, and accessible only to their creator with a standard Google account. Creators must still follow Google Play's existing policies, and the apps aren't automatically eligible for public release.
Google has introduced a feature in Google Play that lets users build simple apps using AI prompting tools, often called 'vibe coding,' and distribute them privately to specific people rather than publishing them publicly. The apps run natively on Android devices through Play's existing distribution infrastructure, without requiring a full public store listing.
Google Play is offering discounted digital gift cards through October 19th, including 20 percent off a $50 Barnes & Noble card, 20 percent off a $100 REI card, and 10 percent off a $100 GameStop card. The promotion also includes discounts on subscriptions like Calm and Duolingo and bonuses on in-app purchases in games such as Pokémon Go and PUBG Mobile.
Google has introduced Googlebooks, a new line of certified laptops built on an Android-based operating system rather than ChromeOS. Partners including Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP and Lenovo are producing Googlebook-certified devices with carbon-fiber chassis, high-end Intel or Snapdragon processors, high-resolution screens and Gemini built in, starting at 16GB RAM and 256GB storage with about 14 hours of battery life. The devices run Android apps natively via the full Google Play Store and integrate with Android phones running Android 17 or later, syncing passwords, notifications and files.
Google is expanding its Ask Play chatbot into a broader AI-powered search tool for the Play Store, letting users ask questions and get app comparisons, with similar functionality coming to Gemini. The company also launched Game Finder, a recommendation engine using a 'Gamer DNA' profile built from usage data across 1.2 billion Android gamers, rolling out in the US now. Separately, Google plans to let users privately host and share apps they build themselves using AI coding tools through the Play Store.
Google announced that any standard Google account holder can now use AI Studio to create personal Android apps via text prompts, with no coding required. These apps install directly to a user's own device through a private Play Store channel rather than the public listing, and can be shared with others outside the formal app store.
Google announced that Android users can now build apps with AI in Google AI Studio and install them directly on their own device via Google Play, without publishing them to the public store. These private apps won't appear in search or listings and are visible only to their creator, though they must still follow Play's policies. The feature is launching first for users 18 and older in the U.S.
Google announced a redesigned Play Store interface for vehicles with Google built-in, which will adapt to different car screen sizes and orientations and add a streamlined navigation menu. The update, rolling out over coming weeks, lets drivers download featured apps with one tap and introduces new apps like Starz, Firefox, Ludo King, and JioHotstar for use while parked, plus YouTube video playback when parked for Premium subscribers.
Google announced a new US feature letting people install personal apps built with AI Studio's vibe-coding tool directly through the Play Store, skipping the need to sideload via a connected computer. These apps remain private and separate from the public store catalog, are tied to a standard Google account, and Google says sharing with select groups is coming soon.
A technology guide examines the practical considerations for US consumers who import foreign smartphones rather than buying domestic models. It highlights compatibility concerns with carrier bands, certified features like VoLTE and Wi-Fi calling, software update schedules, and warranty support as key factors buyers should evaluate before purchasing.
Amazon unveiled three new Alexa Tablets—the 8, 11, and 12 Pro—priced from $230 to $500, alongside new Kids' Tablets. The devices mark the first Amazon tablets to support Google Play in addition to Amazon's own app store, and integrate the Alexa+ assistant throughout the interface. Pre-orders are open now, with shipping starting October 14.
Amazon's newly announced Alexa Tablet lineup, including a top-tier 12 Pro model, will include the Google Play Store out of the box rather than relying solely on Amazon's Appstore. The 12 Pro also offers an optional Nanomatte display finish designed to cut down on screen glare.