Google adds device compatibility checks to Android Market

The open nature of Android means finding apps that run on particular devices isn't always an exact science.

It's an issue Google is now attempting to tackle with the roll out of compatibility charts on app pages on Android Market, informing users which Android devices registered to their account will run the title in question.

Compatible strategy

The new system is a notable upgrade to the previous compatibility material, which provided only general information as to what handsets apps would run on.

It's an effort by Google to ensure consumers aren't caught out, attempting to buy apps for old handsets designed to run on the most recent versions of the firmware.

Fragmentation issues have long been a thorn in Android's side, with many OEMs and carriers failing to push out software updates for devices at regular intervals, if at all.

Many consumers have previously complained that it's hard to know what apps run on what versions of the OS, with Android Market offering a window of just 15 minutes for refunds.

[source: CNET]