Google lets AI-built Android apps run without hitting the store

A personal app, no store needed

Google is adding a new option to Google Play for people who build apps with AI assistance. Users will be able to run Android apps they create through Google AI Studio on their own devices using a standard Google account. They won't need to publish the app publicly or open a professional developer account.

The approach brings "vibe coding" to Android, where a user describes the app they want in natural language and has AI write the code. Someone who just wants a reading log or habit tracker tailored to their own needs, for example, can turn that idea into a personal Android app.

Kept out of the public catalog

Apps created this way will be kept separate from Google Play's public catalog and will initially be usable only by the person who made them. Google plans to add limited sharing with friends and family in the coming months. Those who want to reach a wider audience will move to a professional developer account, at which point their apps will be subject to the same security reviews and quality standards as other apps in the store.

The feature has started rolling out to users aged 18 and over in select markets including the US. Google's announcement did not share a separate timeline for Türkiye.

Discovery on Play gets an upgrade too

As part of the same announcement, Google expanded Play's AI-powered discovery tools. Ask Play can now compare apps' key differences and user reviews. A Play in Gemini integration, coming soon, will bring apps and games into Gemini chats.

The new Game Finder will offer recommendations based on a Gamer DNA profile built from a user's gaming preferences. Initially available in English in the US, it is joined by Game Playlists, which lets users build collections of games.