Theta Android News: Google is testing a Play Pass subscription service: Would you subscribe?

Thursday, August 1, 2019

Google is testing a Play Pass subscription service: Would you subscribe?

Apple Arcade was announced earlier this year, but rumors have persisted since last year that Google is planning to introduce a Play Pass of its own.

Now, Android Police has discovered that Google is indeed testing a Play Pass subscription service and app, with Google confirming the test. According to screenshots obtained by the outlet, Play Pass grants users access to hundreds of premium apps and games for a $4.99 monthly fee (with a free 10-day trial).

Games spotted in the screenshots include 80 Days, Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons, Hatoful Boyfriend, Knights of the Old Republic, Limbo, Marvel Pinball, Mini Metro, Monument Valley, Stardew Valley, This is the Police, and Threes.

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The price isn't necessarily final just yet, but the screenshots show that Play Pass is also available on a family plan. This could potentially save you a ton of money for your household, as opposed to loved ones buying individual plans.

The screenshots obtained by Android Police also show that Play Pass apps are ad-free, and have all their in-app purchases unlocked. This is pretty much identical to Apple Arcade, which touts these advantages as well.

News of the Play Pass comes roughly a year after references to the feature were first found by developer Kieron Quinn in a Play Store APK teardown. Google also reportedly issued a survey in October 2018, quizzing respondents on a Pass-style service.

Would you subscribe to Google Play Pass? Let us know in the comments!