Google Play developer feedback option for reviews extended
updated 08:28 am EST, Fri January 11, 2013
Recent change allows all Android developers right-to-reply
Google has extended its program to allow all app developers to respond to user comments. The ability to respond to user feedback in the Review section of Google Play app pages has now been extended for all creators of Android apps using the storefront, after initially being rolled out to programming teams with a Top Developer badge.
Sources of Droid-Life noticed the unannounced expansion, which has allowed for developer responses for the last few days. As before, users leaving feedback can be notified by e-mail that the developer has issued a response to comments, with developers able to explain their reaction to comments and what they will be updating in their software if necessary.
The right-to-reply for developers is only one of the ways that Google is trying to improve Play Store reviews. An update in November forced users leaving reviews to have a link to a Google+ account, in an attempt for reviewers to show more accountability, and to avoid "trolling" commentary.
At the time of the program's original launch, the Android Developers Blog said that the two-way conversation between developers and app users will "ultimately yield better apps, to the benefit of everyone."
