Google Play Books is a browser based and mobile app. This review concerns the most recent iOS version as of 5/3/2025. The app has similar functionality to other e-reader apps (e.g Kindle, Libby, Hoopla, etc.). The platform supports traditional ebooks, comics, periodicals and audiobooks. What is most important for educators to understand is that the layout and functionality of Google Play appears intended to steer users towards paid downloads of media. There is a selection of free titles - but these can be difficult to find in the current layout. One strong positive of the app is the ability to view samples of each piece of media before purchase. For those looking for a platform for either themselves or their learners to purchase, download and access ebooks and related media, this app may be a good fit. For those who are looking for similar functionality at no-to-low cost, I would look to apps such as Libby and Hoopla. From the publisher: What you can do with Google Play Rent or buy movies and TV shows. Go to Google Play Movies & TV. Watch movies and TV shows. Download the Google TV app. Read or listen to books, news, and publication subscriptions. Download Google Play Books. If you plan to buy apps or something within the apps you download, set up a payment method. Set a payment method to use with all apps You can use this payment method to buy apps, or items within the apps you download from Google Play, including the apps mentioned above. When you add a payment method, you'll automatically get access to thousands of books, movies, TV shows, and games. On a desktop or web browser, go to your Google Play payment methods. Click Add a new payment method. Follow the steps on the screen. The new payment method will be added to your Google account.
Type of Material:
A commercial eBook and audiobook catalog and reading platform
Recommended Uses:
Generally useful for users of iOS
Technical Requirements:
Users will need a current version of iOS. This publisher makes frequent updates
Identify Major Learning Goals:
There is no specific learning goal for this item and this may be unnecessary based on the publisher outline and user reviews
Target Student Population:
High School, College General Ed, College Lower Division, College Upper Division, Graduate School, Professional
Prerequisite Knowledge or Skills:
No previous knowledge is required
Content Quality
Rating:
Strengths:
A good and stable eBook platform from a known entity (Google). Wide selection of books available for purchase.
Concerns:
The focus on paid media and the need for a credit card to fully enable app options may be a limiting factor for teachers/students/institutions who would likely want to use shared community or freely avaialble resources to support course/classroom associted readings.
Potential Effectiveness as a Teaching Tool
Rating:
Strengths:
Supports reading on iOS devices with capabilities to change text size and other functionalities
Concerns:
No concerns.
Ease of Use for Both Students and Faculty
Rating:
Strengths:
Clear and accurate instructions for use. The site has a clear and consistent layout. The software is easy to navigate.
Concerns:
Users may wish to check the user reviews before purchasing
Creative Commons:
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