It’s been revealed this week that Google is planning to shortly add the ability to purchase both audiobooks and magazines from their newly branded Google Play, Android Market.
The Google Play help page has inadvertently revealed the new additions, and currently has empty help sections titled ‘Audiobooks’ and ‘Magazines and journals’.
Expanding Google Play’s Offerings
As well as the new audiobooks and magazines, Google has also been busy registering numerous domain names including the words Google Play, Magazines, and Audiobooks. This further backs up the planned additions and indicates a significant expansion of the Google Play ecosystem. The move to include audiobooks and magazines is a strategic one, aimed at providing a more comprehensive digital content platform for Android users.
The new Google audiobooks and magazines being added to Google Play will provide Android users with a similar service to Apple’s iTunes platform and Newsstand application. This is a clear indication that Google is aiming to compete directly with Apple by offering a one-stop-shop for various types of digital content.
Potential Features and Benefits
No official information has been announced regarding the new sections or if the new services will provide subscriptions. However, if Google is going to compete with Newsstand, you can bet they are on their way. Subscriptions could be a key feature, allowing users to receive the latest issues of their favorite magazines automatically. This would be similar to how Apple Newsstand operates, providing convenience and ensuring that users never miss an issue.
Moreover, the inclusion of audiobooks could significantly enhance the user experience for those who prefer listening to books rather than reading them. Audiobooks have been growing in popularity, and by adding this feature, Google Play could attract a broader audience. This would be particularly beneficial for commuters, people with visual impairments, or anyone who enjoys multitasking while consuming content.
Google’s move to register multiple domain names related to Google Play, Magazines, and Audiobooks suggests that they are preparing for a substantial launch. This could mean that we will see a wide variety of content available from the get-go, including popular magazines and bestselling audiobooks.
Additionally, integrating these new features into Google Play could offer seamless synchronization across devices. For example, users could start listening to an audiobook on their phone during their commute and continue from where they left off on their tablet at home. This kind of cross-device functionality would be a significant selling point for the new services.
The addition of audiobooks and magazines to Google Play represents a significant expansion of the platform’s offerings. While we await official announcements and further details, it’s clear that Google is positioning itself to compete directly with Apple’s iTunes and Newsstand. This move could provide Android users with a more comprehensive and convenient digital content experience, making Google Play a more attractive option for a wider audience.
Source: Tech Radar
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