Google updates Android Market with new features

Users of smartphones and devices running Google’s Android operating system may now have a better time getting applications, games, books, and movies after the search giant revamped its Android Market Wednesday (Manila time). Product manager Paul Montoy-Wilson said that the new version of Android Market makes all the apps and content available on phones and devices running Android 2.2 and higher. “You’ll be delighted to find we’ve overhauled Android Market to make it faster, easier, and more fun to discover great apps, movies, and books. We’ve created more space to feature some of the most interesting content of the week on the home page," Wilson said in a blog post. “Your phone is about to get a lot more interesting! Enjoy the new Android Market," he added. He also said Google has added more top charts with newer, more relevant items. He said it will now be easier to swipe through these charts while browsing the store. Other features of the updated site include new collections of promoted content, such as staff picks and Editors’ Choice apps. Users in the United States can also rent movies starting at $1.99, right from Android Market on their phones. “With the Videos app, available in Android Market, there’s no more waiting for downloads, syncing, or worrying about storage space. Simply sign into Android Market with your Google account, and you can rent movies from anywhere – the web, or your Android phone or tablet – and start watching instantly. You can also download movies to your device so they’re available for viewing when you don’t have an internet connection," he said. Also in the US, users can now purchase books from Android Market on your phone just like movie rentals. He said the books are linked to one’s Google account, “so they’re instantly available across all of your devices – computer, phone, or tablet – without the need for wires or downloads." Wilson said the new Android Market will roll out in the coming weeks to Android 2.2 and higher phones around the world. “You don’t need to do anything - the update is automatic on supported phones. If you’re in the U.S., you’ll also be able to download the Videos app, rent movies, and buy books once you receive the new Android Market," he said. — TJD, GMA News