After enabling ‘top’ developers to be able to reply to comments from customers within the Google Play Store back in June last year, the Droid Life website has spotted this week that Google has started rolling out the reply comment support to all Google Play developers.
Google’s New Commenting System
When contacted about the new commenting system, Google explained: “The feature originally rolled out to top developers, and we’re gradually expanding it to additional Google Play developers.” This expansion marks a significant step in improving the communication between app developers and users. Previously, only a select group of top developers had the privilege to respond to user reviews, which often left many users’ questions and concerns unaddressed. By extending this feature to all developers, Google aims to foster a more interactive and responsive environment within the Play Store.
Enhancing User Experience
To further help the cloak of anonymity from Google Play reviews, Google has also started tying reviews to Google+ accounts. This move is designed to add a layer of accountability and authenticity to the reviews. With the added support for developers to be able to provide feedback to criticism or concerns, and answer questions directly, the Google Store reviews are sure to be a healthier place.
For instance, if a user encounters a bug or has a feature request, they can now expect a direct response from the developer. This not only helps in resolving issues faster but also builds trust and loyalty among users. Developers can clarify misunderstandings, provide updates on bug fixes, and even gather valuable feedback for future updates.
Moreover, this system can significantly reduce the spread of misinformation. Sometimes, users might leave negative reviews due to a lack of understanding of the app’s functionality. With the ability to respond, developers can guide users on how to use the app correctly, potentially turning a negative review into a positive one.
Another advantage is the potential for community building. Developers can engage with their user base more effectively, creating a sense of community and belonging. This can lead to higher user retention rates and more positive word-of-mouth promotion.
However, it’s essential for developers to use this feature responsibly. Constructive and polite responses are crucial. Negative or defensive replies can harm the app’s reputation more than the original negative review. Developers should see this as an opportunity to improve their app and user relations.
The rollout of the reply comment support to all Google Play developers is a welcome change. It promises to enhance the user experience, improve app quality, and build stronger developer-user relationships. As more developers start using this feature, we can expect the overall quality of apps and user satisfaction to rise.
Source: TNW : Droid Life
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