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Google Play Basics Part 1: Is Google Play free?

Softonic Editorial Team

Softonic Editorial Team

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Whether you’re new to smartphones or just making the switch to Android, this is the first part of our Google Play Basics series for new Android users, meant to answer some of the most basic questions you might be afraid to ask.

Is it free to have a Google Play account and use the Google Play Store?

Google Play is an online store where you can download games and applications for Android phones and tablets. But if it’s a ‘store’, can we use it for free? The answer: YES!

Google Play Basics Part 1: Is Google Play free?

Google Play does include paid for games and applications; some cost as little as .99 cents, while others can run you up $25 or more. Having said that, you don’t have to buy apps or games in Google Play!

Google Play has thousands of great games and apps that you can download completely free!

What makes people think that Google Play isn’t free?

Creating a Google Account, needing to register for and download Google Play, is free, and there are thousands of free games and apps in Google Play. But it’s still a common misconception that you have to pay for Google Play. Why do so many people get confused? There are a few possible reasons.

First of all, downloading games and applications to your phone or tablet can cost a lot of money, and quickly, if you haven’t purchased a data package. How do you avoid additional charges from downloading the game itself?

  • Only download apps and games using Google Play when you’re connected to WiFi, like at home, at work, or at a coffee shop with free Wi-Fi access.
  • Purchase a data package from your mobile operator or change your existing plan to one that has relatively large data capabilities included in the contract.
  • Systematically check your level of data usage. If you buy 200MB and use it up quickly, even free downloads will cost you something.

If you only download apps and games via Wi-Fi at home and don’t want to expose yourself to the costs of downloading on 3G, make sure you turn off the function that allows app updates using data. Updates will only load when you’re connected to WiFi.

To do this, enter the Google Play store and in the upper right hand corner, tap the icon with three vertical dots, then select ‘Settings’. Now, click on the second option at the top and select ‘automatically update applications over Wi-Fi only’.

Another reason for having additional charges to your account? It could be that you’ve inadvertently agreed to pay for upgrades in free games or apps in order to unlock additional features, new levels or upgrade equipment.

Take into account that when someone asks you to upgrade, it usually costs (real) money. You will always get notifications and warnings that tell you your account will be charged, and its impossible for an app to charge you without your permission, so just be diligent in how you use these apps to avoid additional fees.

Do you have any questions about payments in Google Play?

Read the other articles in our Google Play guide:

Original article written by Radek Grabarek, published on Softonic PL.

Softonic Editorial Team

Softonic Editorial Team

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