Google makes it easier to try out beta Android apps with new Early Access section in the Play Store

As the Windows 10 insider preview program has demonstrated, people love to get their hands on pre-release software. While it's easy to install beta software on a desktop computer, it has not been as straightforward for Android users. Until now.

Google has added an Early Access section to Google Play which -- you've guessed it -- features not-quite-ready-for-prime-time apps in beta form. The new section makes installing beta apps as simple as installing any other app and, after rolling out to a few users this week, the option is now available to everyone.

To access the world of beta apps, fire up Google Play and head to the Apps & Games section (if it does not load automatically). In the horizontal list of sub-categories, locate Early Access and dive in! The first time you visit this part of the store, Google informs you that this is the place to get a sneak peek at software that is still in development.

The Early Access area is divided into Unreleased App and Games under Development. For individual listings the Play Store features the warning: "This app is in development. It may be unstable".

The world of Android apps just got a whole lot more interesting for a lot of people.

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