Soon you'll be able to access Android apps without installing them
At Google I/O on Wednesday, Google previewed a new feature that will soon let users use Android apps without having to have the apps installed.
There are millions of Android apps but most users don't want to have to install each app, especially if they only use an app every once in a while. Enter, Android Instant. The feature basically lets users stream apps from the cloud and download what parts are needed as necessary.
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If this sounds familiar, that's because technology is similar to the app streaming capabilities Google added to its Android app last year.
In one of the examples Google showed off on stage, a user could search for a camera bag from the retailer B&H. A web result could let the user open the bag inside the B&H app, even if the app wasn't installed. This would provide the user with a better, more robust experience than using a mobile-optimized webpage.
There are so many apps that are great to use every now and then, but that don't need to take up phone real estate.
It's a solid concept, especially for users who may be low on space on their phone. There are so many apps that are great to use every now and then, but that don't need to take up phone real estate. Moreover, it sounds like Google will be working to have Android Instant apps deep-linked into web results.
Android Instant works by splitting apps into modules. Google Play will then determine what needs to be downloaded -- and what can be streamed from the web -- at the tap of a button. The idea is you could click on an app icon and use it, the same way you could visit a website.
Developers will be able to update their existing apps to work with Android Instant and users will be able to access instant apps inside Google Play. Even better, Android Instant compatibility goes all the way back to Android 4.1 Jelly Bean.
Google will be working with select developers to roll out Android Instant later this year.
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