Google is set to tailor the Play Store ratings for users’ devices, in an effort to better match the content and interests of its users. The move comes as part of a larger effort by Google to improve its search engine results pages (SERPs) and make it easier for users to find what they’re looking for. The new ratings system will be based on a number of factors, including the device’s hardware and software capabilities, as well as how often it is used. Users will be able to see a list of the best rated apps and games on their device, as well as those that have received positive feedback from Google. The move comes as part of a larger effort by Google to improve its search engine results pages (SERPs) and make it easier for users to find what they’re looking for.
Starting in early 2022, the company announced that Google Play Store users would see app ratings based on the type of device they’re running. If an app is particularly demanding and has tons of five-star ratings from users with high-end smartphones, someone with a tablet wouldn’t see those ratings, as they don’t pertain to their specific hardware. Instead, they’d see ratings from other tablet users.
The change to the Play Store doesn’t just apply to tablets and phones. Instead, Chromebook and Wear OS users would also get separate reviews so they can rest assured that the experience of using an app on their type of device will be reflected in the reviews. You probably don’t care how well a particular Android app runs on the latest Pixel phone if you’re on a Chromebook, after all.
Additionally, Starting in November 2021, Google will start showing ratings based on location. This should also help create a more relevant Play Store experience for everyone.
Play Store developers who will see their app’s ratings change by more than 0.2 will get at least a 10-week notice from Google so they can update the app for the platform that’ll see a decrease. Google says, “We understand that many developers closely monitor the ratings that their potential users see, so we’re making sure you have plenty of notice about these upcoming changes.”
