Google has officially launched its new Google Play Pass in the US. Play Pass is a new subscription service that gives you access to more than 350 apps and games that are completely unlocked—all free of ads, in-app purchases and upfront payments.
Google’s package will only contain existing products already available on its Play Store to begin with. When subscribed to Play Pass, you cannot buy apps separately. Google wants to streamline the launch experience so that there won’t be both an “Install” and “Buy” button next to apps.
To make all of these apps and games easier to find, Google has added a new Play Pass tab for subscribers. Play Pass apps and games can still be found throughout the Play Store–just look for the Play Pass “ticket.” All apps and games found on the Play Pass homepage or throughout the Play Store with the ticket are completely unlocked with your subscription.
Just like Google Play Family Library, family managers can share their Play Pass subscription with up to five other family members. Each family member can access Play Pass individually, so your experience won’t be affected by what others download.
Play Pass is coming to Android devices in the U.S. this week, and you can get started with a 10-day free trial and for a limited time, you can get Play Pass for only $1.99/month for your first twelve months, then $4.99/month.
Developers will earn a royalty when their app is used and Google will be factoring how much time is spent in an app, along with other signals, to calculate what to pay developers. According to the company, this rewards immersive experiences.
Play Pass is currently invitation-only, with Google being selective and curating for high-quality experiences. The subscription service will be open to more developers over time and they can express interest now here .
