Google Play Now Better Optimised for 2G Connections; Will Get 'Wait for Wi-Fi' Option

In order to optimise its service offerings in India, Google has announced several updates to its various services. One of the most notable changes among these has been made to Google Play store, which according to the company will now be able to work better even on 2G data connections.

Google Play in India will now be able to pre-load and cache the most popular parts of the store when Wi-Fi connection is available on the smartphone, the search giant said in its official blog. As several parts will be pre-loaded, the store will be able to work better even on 2G connections. The store will further provide an option to "Wait for Wi-Fi" while installing applications in order to wait for faster connections as well as save Internet data.

In a country like India, where Internet connectivity is relatively poor, this is an extremely welcome change by the company.

Earlier, YouTube also introduced a feature that allowed users in India to download their favourite videos on faster Internet connections like Wi-Fi for offline viewing.

Google also made its Maps app available offline with features such as voice-based turn-by-turn navigation in India last year. This move was aimed specifically at "emerging markets" where Internet connection was spotty, and data charges were relatively expensive.

With the developments in last one year, it almost seems like Google is going out of its way to ensure that people in emerging markets like India are able to use more of its services. If the company continues in this direction, its services will definitely lapped up by more consumers in India.