Google Play Pass Subscription Service Enters Testing

Google’s Play Pass subscription service has reportedly entered the testing. The news came in as a leak in the form of images, which were shared on Android Police. On reaching out to Google, a company spokesperson confirmed to Android Police that Play Pass is currently being tested. Last year, XDA Developers found the evidence of Google working on a Play Pass app. The latest development now confirms that Google was in fact, working on a subscription application and that Google Play Pass has now entered active testing. According to the screenshots, Play Pass provides access to “hundreds of premium apps and games, with no ads or in-app purchases” for a $4.99 a month. Also, there will be a free 10-day trial.

A screenshot of an info page reads, “Explore a curated catalog spanning puzzle games to premium music apps and everything in between. From action hits to puzzles and fitness trackers, with Google Play Pass you unlock access to hundreds of premium apps and games without ads, download fees or in-app purchases.” Another screenshot suggests games like Stardew Valley and Marvel Pinball will be playable for free after the subscription. Aside from the apps and games, in Play Pass, non-entertainment software will also be free of ads and in-app purchases.

Apple has a similar subscription service under titled Apple Arcade in development since last year. Apple Arcade will reportedly land on iPhones, iPads, Apple TVs, and Macs later this year. While Apple Arcade is aimed at a range of devices, it is still unclear whether Play Pass will be available on other form factors such as Android TV or not. Given that Google’s Play Pass subscription service has already entered the testing phase, it could land before Apple’s Arcade this year.