Google Play Adds Private Access for AI-Built Android Apps

Google Play now allows U.S. users age 18 and older to run personal Android apps created with Google AI Studio without making them publicly available.

Users can launch the apps through a standard Google account, but the apps will not appear in Google Play search results or public listings. Access is limited to the person who created each app.

The feature is aimed at people building apps with artificial intelligence for specific personal needs. Those apps must still comply with Google Play’s existing policies.

Google plans to add sharing with trusted friends and small groups in the coming months. Apps that attract wider interest will have a path to public publication on Google Play after completing trust and safety reviews.