Google has announced its first-ever Google Play Awards to be held this year. This landmark event has been designed to thank the millions of developers who have made the Android ecosystem a big success across the globe.
The award ceremony will be held at the Google I/O 2016 which is slated start from 18 May. The Google Play Award winners will be announced on 19 May, according to Google.
Google Play has seen tremendous growth over the past year, reaching more than 1 billion Android users across 190 countries. As a way to recognise our incredible developer community and highlight some of the best apps and games, we’re kicking off our first-ever Google Play Awards.Google Blogpost
Google’s Android and Apple’s iOS are the biggest mobile ecosystem in the market right now with the likes of Windows Phone and BlackBerry OS losing steam over the years.
The popularity of the operating system (OS) has ensured that Google continues to hold the top position with over 85 percent smartphones used across the globe running on Android. With Google Play Awards, the developers will get more incentives to continue their affiliation with Google and Android at the same time.
The program will showcase five nominees across 10 award categories and feature them in a dedicated collection on Google Play.Google Blogpost
Categories for the Google Play Awards 2016:
- Standout Startup: Apps from new developers that offer a unique experience while achieving strong install growth.
- Standout Indie: Games from indie developers that focus on artistic design, high quality, and innovative gameplay.
- Best Families App: Apps or games with a family friendly design that encourage creativity and exploration.
- Best Use of Material Design
- Best Use of Google Play Game Services
- Early Adopter
- Best App
- Best Game
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