Android Market Chief Steps Down As Google Play Moves Into Spotlight

Google hasn’t been as successful in creating revenue from its Google Market platform as Apple has for the iOS App Store. In fact Apple has generated six times more revenue because of its focus on paid apps and highlighting the iOS app platform. That’s likely a big part of the reason that Google Market chief manager Eric Chu stepped down this week.

In his place is Jamie Rosenberg, Android’s digital content lead and Google Music leader.

While Chu will seek another position inside Google, the new move is believed to be an attempt to better focus the Google Play Store as a true competitor against iOS apps. While Apple receives more revenue from its apps more Google Android based devices are currently available on the market in the Smartphone sector.

According to reports the store was marred by management overlaps which led to bad decision making moves. For example Product Manager David Conway had about as much power as Chu which led to uncertain management decision.

In the meantime it will be Rosenberg’s job to make the Google Play Store more interesting to developers who have complained about a lack of cross-device cohesion. Currently Mobile VP Andy Rubin has focused almost all of his efforts on increasing device activations and revenue for Google search ads which has left the app store suffering.

Google has already begun forcing developers over to the Google Wallet payment system for application instead of allowing for various third party payment platforms, a move Google believes will streamline mobile app payments, thus creating a more enjoyable experience for users.

Do you think the Google Play Store needs better management to make for a more enjoyable app experience?