Tag Archives: googleplayservices

Google Play Services 3.2 adds location-based features, easier G+ sharing

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Android developers keen on integrating more core OS functionality into their apps will be glad to know that the latest update to Google Play Services has arrived. Version 3.2 of the software offers a number of location-based services that devs can incorporate into their apps, such as a low-power option when requesting updates, support for hardware-based GPS geofencing and a "Snapshot" feature that removes the need for a constantly interactive map. The update also makes it easier to incorporate content sharing with G+, adds a compass mode in the Photo Sphere viewer, promises a more efficient InstantBuy implementation and better performance in general. Those interested in tinkering with the new and improved Play Services can download an updated Google APIs emulator image through the Android SDK Manager right now.

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Source: Android Developers Blog

Google Cloud Messaging now part of Google Play Services

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More goodies for devs here at I/O: Google just announced that Google Cloud Messaging -- the push-notification system that debuted last year -- is now a part of its Google Play Services, and it will get three new features, to boot. These include "persistent connections," which should help push out messages quickly, upstream messaging for sending data from your app to your servers and -- most importantly -- synced notifications across devices. This means that if you dismiss an alert on your phone, it will similarly hit the dust on your slate. Mountain View recently announced that Cloud Messaging will now integrate with all versions of Chrome and Chrome OS, so today's news is a (very big) cherry on top.

Gallery: Google I/O 2013: Cloud messaging

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Google Play spruced up in new release, Services app nabs new syncing options

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Google Play spruced up in new release, Services app nabs new syncing options

On the eve of Google I/O, Page and Co. have seen fit to polish the Google Play app with a fresh release. Version 4.1.6 of the mobile OS market brings colorful section buttons and improved spacing for "open" and "install" on application pages, along with a new layout for the wishlist feature that displays apps in rows of three. As for Google Play Services, it's received new syncing options for "App Data" and "People Details." Presumably they could relate to contacts, Google+ or even Mountain View's incoming gaming service, but something tells us we'll find out exactly what they do tomorrow. If your handset hasn't received the updated storefront just yet, follow the adjacent source link to install it by hand.

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Source: Droid Life (1), (2)

Google APK source code offers glimpse of possible Android game framework

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Google Play Services code peek fuels rumors of an Android game framework

Android may be improving its reputation as a gaming platform, but there isn't a consistent, official service that can tie everything together -- Google has no parallel to Xbox Live or Game Center. That might be changing, if Android Police's snooping around the Google Play Services component of the MyGlass app is any indication. A seemingly innocuous "games" folder includes what appears to be a Google Play Services gaming framework: achievements, in-game chats, rankings and invitation-capable multiplayer lurk inside. None of these are accessible to regular users, though, so it's unclear whether the references represent a glimpse into an upcoming gaming strategy or just an instance of developers leaving in code that's normally destined for the scrap heap. We're hoping there are some proper answers at Google I/O.

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Source: Android Police