Google is testing app downloads from search results

Google tests many new features within their apps that aim to streamline and simplify tasks for users. In a new feature, spotted by Android Police, users can install and download apps directly from a search results page.

When users search for an app from the Google app, the first result will be a summary of its Google Play listing, showing the app icon, rating, and a brief summary. Tapping the free button next to the developer’s name will usually open up the Play Store.

However, those who have the new feature will be presented with a Play Store pop-up that has screenshots, other information, and an install button. Tapping it will bring up the usual permissions page with an ‘accept’ button to start the download. From there on, the app will download in the background like usual, while the search result shows a spinner denoting the in-progress download.

Quite a few users have reported seeing this feature. I have yet to and am directed to the Play Store on two different devices. The feature only works through the Google app and not from search results in Chrome. Lately, Google has added more app discovery features to search on Android. There is an option to only show app search results from the Play Store.