Google Play Editions Explained: Benefits & What They Are
Google Play Edition Devices: A New Offering
Google has expanded its device offerings on the Google Play Store, now featuring "Google Play Edition" devices in addition to the established Nexus line.
These devices represent modified versions of well-known Android smartphones and tablets, distinguished by their software configuration.
The initial target audience appears to be individuals deeply invested in the Android ecosystem, including both enthusiasts and application developers.
Key Differences from Nexus Devices
A significant distinction between Google Play Edition devices and Nexus devices lies in their geographical availability.
Currently, these Google Play Edition devices are exclusively available for purchase within the United States.
Availability Outside the US
For customers located outside of the US, acquiring a Google Play Edition device presents certain challenges.
- One option involves requesting a US resident to purchase and ship the device.
- Alternatively, consumers can explore purchasing from third-party resellers.
These alternative methods may incur additional costs and logistical considerations.
Google is providing a new avenue for experiencing a pure Android experience on popular hardware.
Google Play Edition Versus Standard Edition
Devices in the Google Play Edition line share identical hardware specifications with their standard, commercially available counterparts. As an illustration, the Samsung Galaxy S4 Google Play Edition incorporates the same hardware components as the conventional Samsung Galaxy S4 model.
The primary distinction lies within the software implementation.
Typically, Android operating systems on most devices are subject to customization and control by the device manufacturer. Samsung, for instance, incorporates its TouchWiz interface alongside a comprehensive suite of applications. Similarly, HTC utilizes Sense, and LG employs its Optimus skin.
Each manufacturer tailors its Android version to differentiate itself and provide unique functionalities compared to competitors.
A segment of Android enthusiasts express dissatisfaction with these custom skins, often citing concerns regarding design quality and incomplete feature sets. These users frequently favor "stock Android," representing the streamlined Android experience originally envisioned by Google’s development team.
Regrettably, reverting to stock Android is not a straightforward process for users who prefer it. They are generally constrained to utilize the manufacturer’s customizations unless they opt for installing a custom ROM.
Google Play Edition devices present an alternative solution. If a user desires a Samsung Galaxy S4 for its removable battery and highly-rated camera, but dislikes Samsung’s software, a Galaxy S4 Google Play Edition provides a means to enjoy the advantages of both.
Manufacturer customizations also contribute to delays in software updates. The involvement of both manufacturers and carriers can result in significant delays—sometimes months—before new Android versions are deployed to existing devices, and updates may not be released at all.
Google directly manages updates for Google Play Edition devices, guaranteeing timely access to new Android versions without interference from manufacturers or carriers. The update speed appears comparable to that of Nexus devices.
Related: Why Your Android Phone Isn't Getting Updates, and What to Do About It
Google Play Editions and Nexus Devices: A Comparison
A common question arises regarding the distinctions between Google Play Editions and Nexus devices. This discussion is often relevant for Android enthusiasts seeking specific features and price points.
Prior to the introduction of Google Play Edition smartphones and tablets, Google exclusively provided its own line of Nexus devices. These represent Android hardware developed and directly marketed by Google.
Nexus Device Characteristics
While Google oversees the development, Nexus devices are actually manufactured by partner companies. For instance, LG produced the Nexus 4 and Nexus 5, and Asus created the Nexus 7. However, Google maintains significant control over the hardware design process.
Both Nexus devices and Google Play Editions operate with comparable software experiences. The primary divergence lies in the underlying hardware specifications.
A defining characteristic of Nexus devices is their consistent hardware features. These typically include on-screen navigation buttons, the absence of an SD card slot, and non-removable batteries.
Google Play Edition Distinctions
In contrast, Google Play Edition devices mirror the hardware configurations of their standard counterparts. This means they often feature traditional capacitive buttons, and may include removable batteries and SD card expansion options.
Essentially, the Google Play Edition doesn’t offer a completely “designed by Google” hardware experience. Instead, it provides a wider selection of hardware choices, particularly appealing to users who disagree with Google’s design decisions regarding features like SD card slots and battery removability.
Pricing and Market Strategy
Nexus devices are strategically priced to maximize sales volume. For example, the Nexus 5 was available for $349, while a Galaxy S4 Google Play Edition carried a price tag of $649 – both figures representing off-contract costs.
Google Play Edition devices are positioned to align with the pricing of unlocked, unsubsidized retail versions of the same hardware. This approach avoids direct competition with existing retail channels. Nexus devices, however, are intentionally priced very competitively for the off-contract market.
Reasons for Choosing a Google Play Edition Device
A Google Play Edition device would be an appealing choice for individuals who appreciate the build quality of specific Android smartphones or tablets, such as the Samsung Galaxy S4, HTC One, Sony Z Ultra, or LG G Pad 8.3.
However, these users would also desire software more akin to that found on Nexus devices, receiving prompt Android updates directly from Google.
Benefits of Stock Android
The primary advantage lies in experiencing a pure, unadulterated Android experience. This means no manufacturer skins or bloatware are present, resulting in a cleaner and often faster operating system.
Timely updates are another significant benefit. Google Play Edition devices receive Android version and security updates directly from Google, bypassing the often-delayed schedules of individual manufacturers.
Hardware Preferences
Some consumers favor Nexus devices but may find their hardware specifications lacking in certain areas. A Google Play Edition device offers a solution to this dilemma.
Features such as a removable battery, microSD card expansion, an enhanced camera system, or a larger display size can be obtained alongside the benefits of stock Android through a Google Play Edition purchase.
- Removable Battery: Allows for easy battery replacement.
- SD Card Slot: Provides expandable storage options.
- Camera Quality: Offers potentially superior image and video capture.
- Screen Size: Caters to users who prefer larger displays.
Essentially, Google Play Edition devices bridge the gap between the software purity of Nexus devices and the diverse hardware offerings of other Android manufacturers.
Reasons to Reconsider Purchasing a GPE Device
Google Play Edition (GPE) devices present a unique option, but aren't necessarily the best choice for everyone. Considerations regarding cost and features may lead you to explore alternative options.
These devices are specifically intended for sale unlocked and without carrier contracts, resulting in a significantly higher upfront price. The majority of consumers acquire flagship smartphones through subsidized contracts, a purchasing method unavailable with GPE devices.
You will be required to cover the entire, unsubsidized retail price of the phone. Even if you currently maintain a cellular contract, your monthly service fees will likely remain consistent, negating any potential savings from purchasing a phone outright.
Nexus devices generally offer a more affordable entry point for Android users seeking to avoid contracts and utilize prepaid cellular plans. GPE pricing is strategically aligned with the existing market for expensive, contract-bound smartphones.
Furthermore, some users may simply favor the customized software and supplementary functionalities found on standard retail versions of Android smartphones.
Feature Differences to Consider
For instance, the conventional Galaxy S4 includes a split-screen capability enabling simultaneous use of multiple applications, a feature absent from the Google Play Edition variant.
Ultimately, the decision to purchase a GPE device should be based on a careful evaluation of your individual needs and priorities. Weigh the benefits against the potential drawbacks before making a commitment.
Leveraging Google Play Edition ROMs on Conventional Devices
Related: A Guide to Flashing a New ROM onto Your Android Phone
Even without owning a Google Play Edition device, these ROMs can be beneficial. Given identical hardware specifications, porting ROMs from the GPE version to the standard device edition is readily achievable. The availability of Google Play Edition ROMs significantly expands support for installing custom ROMs on comparable retail models.
Consequently, a standard Samsung Galaxy S4 purchased through a carrier contract can be modified to run a Google Play Edition ROM. This allows users to experience a pristine, unmodified Android environment if desired. While not officially endorsed, this process generally proves more streamlined than utilizing CyanogenMod or other entirely unofficial, third-party ROMs. A quick online search will reveal Google Play Edition ROMs specifically designed for installation on standard retail devices.
For the majority of users, purchasing a Google Play Edition device may not be the most practical choice. Individuals bound by cellular contracts will likely prefer acquiring a phone through a contract rather than investing in an expensive, unsubsidized device. Those seeking cost savings by avoiding contracts and opting for off-contract phone purchases will often find a Nexus phone to be a more economical option, potentially saving hundreds of dollars.
However, if a Galaxy S4 is desired but with the benefits of stock Android and prompt operating system updates directly from Google, a viable alternative now exists.
Image Credit: Kārlis Dambrāns on Flickr