Tip of the Week: Lesser-Known Google Play Features

Android device users rely on the Google Play Store to source applications, but many may not be aware of the controls and features that the Play Store has to offer. Let’s go over some of these features that could prove useful.

Controlling Purchases with a Password

App store purchases, whether to purchase or subscribe to an application itself or to add features and functionality to a free version, can very quickly and very substantially add up—especially if someone else gains access to your device. Locking the ability to make purchases behind password-based authentication can help prevent such spending from taking place.

Content-Based App Filtering

As the Play Store caters to users of all ages and audiences, many applications include gambling, violence, and other inappropriate and otherwise “Not Safe for Work” content. Naturally, you don’t want your business’ users to be downloading these applications on company-owned devices—or, for that matter, using them during work hours. Filtering out these kinds of apps can be accomplished by navigating to the Play Store, accessing Settings, finding Content Filtering, and adjusting the settings to outline what is appropriate within your business.

Review All Orders and Purchases

Speaking of overspending and checking for inappropriate app downloads, keeping track of how much money has been spent in the Play Store is simple thanks to the record that is maintained. On the online version of the Play Store, access the Gear icon, and find the My orders section.

View All Android Devices

To close, the online version of the Play Store also allows you to keep track of every device associated to a particular Google Account and used to access the Play Store through it. Again, in the Gear icon, the Settings area will reveal this information.

What else can the Play Store do to help you manage your mobile devices? Share anything we may have missed in the comments!