Google Play Store, the primary app store on Android devices, is unveiling a new feature that allows users to request someone else to pay for apps or in-app purchases.
This feature, announced at Google I/O 2024, aims to assist users who may be unable to make purchases themselves or wish to have someone else cover the cost.
The new functionality, revealed in a report by Android Authority, presents as an 'ask someone else to pay for this item' button within the Play Store.
While, it is compatible with all apps utilizing Google Play's billing service.
Developers need only integrate version six or later of the Play Billing Library to enable this feature.
Upon clicking the button, a payment link is generated, which users can share with others to complete the transaction.
To utilize this feature, the person paying will require the user's full email address and has the option to request a refund.
Meanwhile, the generated link, along with text specifying the item to be purchased, can be shared via the Android share sheet. Recipients have 24 hours to make the payment before the link expires.
Alongside this feature, Google Play Store is also introducing several other updates, including enabling family managers to make purchases for child accounts via web links and introducing new badges to highlight trending items.
