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Google Play Games Enhances Sidekick Activation
Developing
In Short: Google Play Games is rolling out a new way to activate Sidekick, offering users more control and a distraction-free gaming experience.
Google Play Games has introduced a significant update to its Sidekick feature, which allows players to access game-related information without leaving the game screen. The latest enhancement includes a new activation method that removes the need to drag a handle on the screen.
According to Android Authority, the Play Store now offers a 'Configure Sidekick access' option in Settings > General > Google Play Games. This new setting includes an 'Open only from notifications' option, alongside the existing 'Open only within games' option.
The new notification-based activation method removes the onscreen drag handle, allowing users to activate Sidekick via the notifications panel. This change is designed to provide a more seamless and distraction-free gaming experience.
Android Authority reports that this update is now available across multiple Play Store versions, indicating a server-side rollout. This suggests that the feature is being gradually introduced to users.
Additionally, early versions of the Play Store, such as 53.1.23, hint at another potential method to trigger the on-screen drag handle. This new method is expected to reduce accidental activations, further enhancing the user experience.
What's still developing
- Google finally gave Play Games a big upgrade last year, including an in-game overlay called Sidekick.
- While the existing Sidekick drag handle works as intended, its placement isn’t ideal for certain games, especially FPS or some arcade titles.
Sources
- Android Authoritylink