Google's app subscription service launches in Australia this week

Australian Android users will this week be able to subscribe to Google Play Pass, a new service that provides unlimited access to "hundreds" of apps and games that you'd normally have to pay for, without ads or in-app purchase.

The service is ostensibly a Netflix-but-for-apps type situation, where you're able to access a plethora of games and applications at no extra cost, for as long as you're subscribing. Apps available as part of the service at launch include Stardew Valley, Monument Valley, Photo Studio Pro, Sonic The Hedgehog, Limbo, This War of Mine, Mini Metro, Tunable, and more.

Google Play Pass is billed at $7.99 per month, or $49.99 per year. Committing to a year-long term represents a saving of around $45 per year. A one-month free trial is available for new subscribers. Google Play Pass can be shared with up to five family members.

Play Pass is similar to Apple Arcade, but broader in scope. While Apple Arcade is limited to games, Play Pass also extents to other types of apps. In addition, apps don't have to be an Android mobile exclusive in order to be consider for inclusion in Play Pass. On the other hand, you won't find the games featured in Apple Arcade on Android (but they can appear on consoles). Apple Arcade is also billed at $7.99 per month, but $79.99 per year.

Alex Choros

Managing Editor + Group Telco Editor | X | Instagram | Threads | LinkedIn

Alex Choros is the Managing Editor of WhistleOut Australia and an award-winning journalist. He's been writing about consumer technology for over a decade and is an expert on the Australian telco sector, to the point where he knows far too many phone and internet plans by heart. In addition to leading the WhistleOut editorial team, Alex is responsible for ruining the office Sonos with his troubled taste in music.

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