While Google Play might have started out just offering apps for Android users, Google has over time expanded the offerings in its Play store and covered areas such as music, movies, magazines, books, and etc. However it seems that Google might be either looking to introduce a new feature, or perhaps consolidate its magazines, thanks to hints spotted in Google Play version 4.4 where the folks at Android Police discovered a portal called “Newssstand”. The idea of Google creating a news stand of sorts is definitely not new as in the past it has been referred to as Google Play News, but with the APK teardown of the latest version of Google Play, it appears that Google has decided to go with a different name for it.While it is unclear as to what it might do, Android Police believes that it will take the place of Play Magazines and will be known as Play Newsstand instead, suggesting that the consolidation would mean that both digital magazines and newspaper subscriptions will fall under the same area, as opposed to having two separate sections which could make things a bit messy. The APK teardown also reveals that there will be a free trial offered, allowing users to try out the magazine/newspaper format on their phones before deciding if they want to subscribe to it, with the description reading, “Your favorite magazines and news are right here on Google Play. Pick up the latest issues or try out a free trial subscription. Read instantly with the Play Newsstand app, even offline.”
It is unclear as to when Google Play Newsstand will be announced, but chances are it could be announced alongside the release of Android 4.4 KitKat and the new Google Neus 5 handset.
Filed in . Read more about Google Play.