Google Play Points launched in India, users can now earn redeemable points for every download

To boost Android users' engagement with the Google Play app store, Google has announced the launch of Google Play Points - it is bringing its global rewards programme. It essentially lets users earn points for every download on the Google Play app store, and the points are later redeemable. Users can redeem their points for Google Play Credit that could be used to make in-app purchases or subscribe to a service. Google says it has partnered with developers of popular apps and games across the world to help users redeem their points for special in-app items.

Google Play Points helps users earn points and rewards for the many ways they use the platform. Over the past years, it has been expanded to 28 countries and the company says many users find "value in the programme". It will come to India in the coming weeks. Users will be able to earn points when they make purchases with Google Play, including in-app items, apps, games, and subscriptions. It explains that the rewards programme has four levels — Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum, and each provides members with different perks and prizes. The tier keeps getting updated based on the number of points users have collected.

Google says it is partnering with participating titles that include games from global studios such as Miniclip (8 Ball Pool), TG INC (Evony: The King's return), games from local studios such as Gametion (Ludo King), Playsimple Games (Word Trip), Gameberry Labs (Ludo Star), and popular apps such as Truecaller and Wysa. Google Play will look at expanding the program to more global and local developers in the future.

In a press release, the company said, "Google Play Points will also provide local developers a new avenue to build a local and global user base; helping them engage their users, drive discovery, and acquire users across markets that have Google Play Points".

How to join Google Play Points

Google says the Google Play Points programme is free to join, there is no recurring or monthly fee. Users will earn five times the Play Points in the first week, but only for a limited period. To get started, open the Play Store app on your Android device. Tap your profile icon on the top right, then tap Play Points. Check out the announcement blog here.