Use Before Installing Apps ( Android )

After first reveal of the Android Instant Apps platform at the occasion of Google I/O 2016 , Google is now bringing this new feature to public . Though it's initial rollout is available only for few apps But soon this feature will be available for dozens of apps and games .

What Are Instant Apps?

Instant Apps are the next step in app evolution, a universal Android solution that brings the speed and power of a native app with the ease and immediacy of a web app. They look and operate just like one of the apps that are installed on your phone, but you don’t need to download anything .

So Instant Apps don’t live on my phone?

Correct. Using an Instant App is similar to browsing to a web page. Once you close the window, it disappears.

Are there any limitations?

Yes and no. Instant Apps don’t have any technical limitations, and developers can deliver things like account signup, purchasing, and videos, just like they would in a regular app. However, Instant Apps can be specifically targeted, so a developer could choose to deliver a certain portion of their app to a user at a specific time. That would effectively “lock” the rest of the app until the user decided to download the full version.

Do I need to be online to use Instant Apps?

Like Progressive Web Apps, Instant Apps can be designed to work online, but some features would be accessible only when connected to a network.

Can any phone run them?

Pretty much. Google says phones going all the way back to Jelly Bean can run Instant Apps, though some phones may not be capable of displaying them.

Do I need to set up anything to use them?

You need to enable Instant Apps for your account on your phone. Head over to your Settings app and find your Google Account settings. Scroll down to Instant Apps, flip the toggle on, and tap Yes I’m in on the next screen.

How do I know I’m using an Instant App?

Well, the point is that you’re not supposed to know when you’re running an Instant App. They launch just like a regular app would, and offer the same experience. But there are a couple of telltale signs. For one, most Instant Apps will include a link to download the full app at the top of the screen. Also, if you’re in a browser when you open an Instant App, the address bar will disappear when you click an "Instant" link.

How do I find an Instant App in the Play Store?

When you visit an app page that has an Instant App companion, there will be a Try Now button. Tap it and you’ll be taken directly to the instant app.