In a push for apps developed specifically for tablets, Google launches new ‘Tablet App Quality Checklist’

Google launched a new page this afternoon, titled the “Tablet App Quality Checklist”, that aims to help developers build apps specifically for tablets. The checklist shows various ways developers can better their apps such as” getting rid of stretched UIs” to better fit a tablet’s larger screen.

Over the years, many have complained about the lack of applications on the Play Store that are developed for tablets. Most apps look to be built for handsets and stretch to fit the larger 7-inch to 10-inch screen instead. To be frank, those usually do not look too good. Amazon took note of this when its store launched; it also hosts Android apps. Like Apple, Amazon is able to approve or deny applications and weed out the applications that do not function as well. As we all know, the Play Store is a free-for-all. However, in Google’s defense, the good apps do seem to shine.

Furthermore in its attempt to help developers, the Android team also launched its new “Developer Stories” section this afternoon that hopes to showcase the benefit of making a tablet-optimized application. The page tells stories of Mint, Instapaper, and TinyCo’s entrance into the larger landscape.

“Whereas our app for phones is used throughout the day for quick sessions, we’ve seen a larger percentage of our tablet usage happen in the evening, for much longer sessions. People are doing a lot more than just checking their spending. They’re looking at historical trends, re-categorizing transactions, analyzing the data and setting financial goals for the future — digging much deeper and being more thoughtful,” said Mint, certainly portraying the time to make an application for a tablet well spent.

As the holiday season ramps up, it may be a great time for developers to make their apps available on tablets. Google said, “With the release of Nexus 7 earlier this year, we shared some tips on how you can get your apps ready for a new wave of Android tablets. With the holiday season now approaching, we’re creating even more ways for great tablet apps to be featured in Google Play – including a series of new app collections that highlight great apps specifically for tablet users.” For developers looking for an extra-bit of guidance, Google added it will hold a tablet development workshop via its Android Developers Google Hangout throughout the week. 

via Wired