Google Play Store to Auto-Launch Apps Post-Install

Have you ever downloaded a new app only to forget to open it afterward? While that might not happen to everyone, Google Play Store could soon make it a non-issue. A new feature reportedly in development aims to simplify the post-download experience by automatically launching apps the moment they’re installed.

What’s the Scoop?

According to an Android Authority report, Google is testing a new functionality in the Play Store that eliminates the need for manual app launches. This upcoming feature, tentatively referred to as App Auto Open, would automatically open an app as soon as its installation completes—saving users a tap and reducing the chance of forgetting about the newly downloaded app.

It's important to note that this feature hasn't been officially announced. The discovery comes from an APK teardown of Play Store version 41.4.19, meaning it's still in the works and not yet rolled out to users. However, if launched, it will be fully optional, allowing users to enable or disable auto-launching through settings.

Here’s how it’s expected to work: once an app finishes installing, a notification banner will appear at the top of the screen and remain visible for approximately five seconds. Depending on your device settings, it may also trigger a sound or vibration alert—ensuring you don’t miss it, even if you’re caught up watching an Instagram reel or deep in a mobile game session.

While there’s no confirmed release date yet, updates will be shared as soon as Google makes an official announcement.

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