Google Play Store Updates Purchase Flow with ‘Slide to Buy’ Gesture
Google Play Store is rolling out a new “Slide to Buy” feature to replace the previous “1-Tap Buy” button, aiming to reduce accidental purchases across Android apps, games, books, and other digital content. This change is now live with Play Store version 46.5.19-31 and will appear across various apps, including Google TV.
Why Is Google Introducing ‘Slide to Buy’?
Google officially stated that it “now requires you to slide instead of tap on the buy button” to enhance purchase safety. While earlier transactions already needed two taps, typically at opposite ends of the screen, this new gesture introduces slight friction to improve user control.
The goal is to help users, especially on touch devices, avoid accidental charges by making the action more intentional.
What’s Changing in the UI?
The former blue “1-Tap Buy” button has been replaced with a taller “Slide to Buy” pill-shaped bar. Key changes include:
- A circular handle with two guiding arrows.
- A first-time animation prompting the user.
- A bounce effect to draw attention.
This new UI element feels familiar to biometric confirmation sliders seen in other apps and creates a more intuitive user experience.
Where Is ‘Slide to Buy’ Available?
This feature is part of a wide rollout via Google Play version 46.5.19-31. It now appears in all instances of the Google Play payment sheet, including
- Android apps and games
- Google TV purchases
- Movies, books, and TV shows on Google Play
Users across different regions and devices are now beginning to see this updated interaction.
Benefits of ‘Slide to Buy’ for Users
- Reduces accidental purchases
- Improves clarity and control during checkout
- Streamlines payment interaction across Play Store and Google apps
- Adds a layer of intentionality without compromising convenience
This UI upgrade aligns with Google’s broader mission to enhance digital well-being and user trust in mobile purchases. The shift from ‘1-Tap Buy’ to ‘Slide to Buy’ may seem minor, but it reflects Google’s commitment to user experience and purchase security. With the new gesture live across the latest version of the Play Store, users can expect safer, smoother, and more intentional transactions when buying digital content on Android.
