Google disables key feature in Play Store: Details
Google will remove the app sharing feature from the Play Store (photo: Getty Images)
Google has started rolling out a new update for the Play Store that improves the app and game categories on the search tab. However, the app sharing feature in the Play Store will be removed, the online resource Android Authority, which specializes in Android news and technology, reports.
Google introduced the app sharing feature in the Play Store back in 2022. This option allowed users to share apps with nearby users via the Google Play Store.
However, not every app could be sent. For instance, paid apps, books, movies, age-inappropriate apps, and corp apps could not be shared.
Despite this, the feature was useful. You could send apps without needing fast Wi-Fi or internet access, as it uses Quick Share (previously known as Nearby Share).
Unfortunately, the app sharing feature in the Play Store will soon be disabled.
In the release notes for the December Play Store update, version 44.1, Google clearly states that the feature will be removed. "The Share apps feature on Google Play will be retiring," the release notes say.
However, a similar feature is available in the Files by Google app. Through it, you can share any Android app on your phone using Quick Share.
As for removing the Share Apps feature from the Play Store, it may take some time before Google fully removes the option, even after the update with changes is released.
Also, read about the best Android apps and games of 2024 that Google recently named.
