How does 51Degrees address this issue?
When working with mobile ecosystems, Google’s native apps play an essential role in identifying and validating Android devices. These keys help ensure that apps can correctly recognize device capabilities, deliver tailored experiences, and maintain compliance with Google Play standards.
However, not all Android devices return complete or reliable data, and this is where things can get complicated.
Aside from well-established brands like Apple and Amazon, many devices circulating in global markets, particularly those manufactured by various Chinese vendors, are not included on the official Google Play supported devices list. While some models from these manufacturers do work with Google Play services, a significant number do not.
This lack of official support means that even though your lookups may still surface data for these devices, they won’t return full device profiles. Without proper Google Play certification - key information may be missing, inconsistent, or unavailable, making it harder to classify devices accurately or optimize app behavior.
Introducing a new 51Degrees property: DefaultAppStores
To help address these challenges and bring more clarity to the fragmented Android landscape, 51Degrees has introduced a powerful new device property: DefaultAppStores.
The role of DefaultAppStores
The DefaultAppStores property provides insight into which app stores are supported and pre-installed by a device manufacturer. This information is increasingly valuable, as it allows businesses to:
- Understand app store availability across devices
- Tailor app distribution and marketing strategies to supported platforms
- Optimize regional campaigns based on device capabilities
- Gain clearer visibility into ecosystems where Google Play is not guaranteed
By analyzing this new property, organizations can better navigate the diverse and evolving app distribution environment. As manufacturers expand their own platforms, the list of supported app stores will only continue to grow. This additional layer of transparency empowers businesses to make smarter, data-driven decisions.
Why This Matters
While most Android devices include the Google Play Store, not all regions allow access to Google services due to regulatory, legal, or censorship restrictions. Many countries offer alternative app stores, and device manufacturers adapt accordingly.
A few examples:
- China: Google services are restricted, so manufacturers often replace the Play Store with their own platforms.
- Huawei:distributes apps through AppGallery, offering a branded experience and exclusive content.
- Xiaomi:Provides its own app store globally, but also pre-installs Google Play on devices sold outside China to accommodate local expectations.
As a result, understanding each device’s default app stores becomes essential for accurate distribution planning and user experience optimization.
Expected Values in the Property
Depending on a device’s configuration, one or more supported stores may be returned.
Examples include:
- Apple – Supports the Apple App Store
- Google – Supports Google Play Store
- Samsung – Supports Samsung Apps, Galaxy Apps, or Galaxy Store
Final Thoughts
The combination of Google’s native app limitations and the rapidly expanding diversity of Android app ecosystems makes device intelligence more important than ever. With the introduction of the DefaultAppStores property, 51Degrees provides the clarity needed to navigate this complexity, whether you’re launching a global app, planning distribution strategies, or analyzing regional device trends.
Understanding which app stores are pre-installed and supported on each device enables more accurate targeting, smoother user experiences, and smarter product decisions in today’s increasingly fragmented mobile landscape.
Get in touch with the 51Degrees team or start testing the DefaultAppStores property today to make more informed, data-driven decisions for your apps and digital strategies.