Google is working on a new feature for its Play Store that aims to improve the app download experience. Currently, if an app download is interrupted due to an unstable internet connection, users must restart the entire download. However, the upcoming "Smart Resume" feature will allow users to pause and resume downloads from where they left off.
The Smart Resume feature, spotted in the Play Store version 43.5.26-31, will let users resume downloads without having to start from scratch. When an app is being downloaded, the Play Store temporarily stores files before installation. Under the new system, these temporary files will be kept for up to 24 hours, allowing users to pause and continue their downloads within that time frame. However, after 24 hours, the download will need to be restarted.
While this feature is designed to help users with unstable internet or limited data plans, it has some requirements. Users will need at least 5GB of free space on their device, and it will only work for apps or games smaller than 2GB in size. Unlike iOS, the Play Store currently does not offer a built-in pause/resume option for app downloads.
In addition to Smart Resume, Google is also planning other improvements to the Play Store. These include a "Resume Playing" section in the Games tab, which will allow users to pick up where they left off in games. Google is also looking to integrate AI to assist users with app-related queries, further enhancing the overall experience.
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