It's been a long time coming, but Google finally seems on the way to improving the Android Market experience. About time, too, since Apple's been luring the cream of the mobile developer crop with the more lucrative opportunities in the App Store.
The first big change is the Android Market Web Store, an online portal that lets you browse and purchase apps right from a browser -- even on your computer. Just access the site, sign in to your Google account and begin searching for apps you like. After purchase, the apps will be "pushed" to the smartphone device of your choice wirelessly over either WiFi or 3G. That's a boatload of convenience, clearing the room for impulse purchases from users who spend most of the day on a desktop browser anyway.
Improved payment options have also found their way to the Android Market. For end consumers, individual Google accounts will now be able to store credit card numbers and payment information, allowing you to purchase new apps with one click.
Developers also get more control on the backend. Variable app pricing can now be set depending on currency, leaving developers less affected by fluctuations in exchange rates. In-app payments will also be available soon (Google estimates by the end of Spring), allowing users to purchase extra game levels and other in-game consumables.
This is a long overdue move by Google, whose Android Market sales hardly reflect the platform's ever-growing user base. It's good news for developers and end-users alike, aside from boding well for Android's short- and long-term prospects.
[via GadgetLab]
