Android apps may have problems when you do not have the latest version, including those that integrate with external services (social media, email, etc.). Many apps, such as Snapchat, have built-in controls to determine if they are out of date and invite users to install the latest version from the Play Store. Google announced today a new API allowing applications to install updates while you use them.

The aptly named "In-app Updates" API gives applications more control over how they can search for and install updates. Here's how Google describes it:

You will have two options with this API; the first is a full screen experience for critical updates when you wait for the user to wait for the update to be applied immediately. The second option is a flexible update, which means that the user can continue to use the application while downloading the update. You can fully customize the update stream to make it feel like a part of your application.

The API is being tested with a handful of partners and will be available soon for all developers. More information is available on the source link below.