Google Teases Us With A Look At The New Android Market

Google (NSDQ: GOOG) is taking action to make the Android Market on its mobile phone more competitive in terms of looks and functionality.

On the company’s Android Developer Blog today, it said the latest Android 1.6 operating system will come with upgrades to the phone’s app store, including the ability for developers to add “screenshots, promotional icons and descriptions that will better show off applications and games.” Developers have recently complained about the lack of these features, which are on the Apple (NSDQ: AAPL) iPhone. Google did not say when the update was coming, and a spokeswoman declined to elaborate, only adding “stay tuned.”

In addition to adding screenshots, generally the store looks more up-to-date. White is used as the standard background instead of the darker black background found today. Google also added four new sub-categories: sports, health, themes, and comics. And within a category, there are now three options for browsing, “top paid,” “top free,” and “just in.” The store has also been opened up to application developers in Italy, who can now sell their goods in any supported country.