Over the past few months, you may have noticed something strange while browsing the Play Store app on your phone: some apps are marked as Early access. What exactly does this mean? And how does it affect you?

It turns out that it is quite mundane.

It’s nothing new for developers to let users download and install software before the software is stable and ready for everyday use. It was called “alpha” and “beta” software, but nowadays “early access” is more fashionable.

In short, an early access app is one that hasn’t been properly tested for bugs, crashes, glitches, etc. Some features may not work properly, the app may drain your battery like crazy, or even freeze your device. But if you can’t wait to try a new app, Early Access lets you.

When sensitive data is involved, such as documents or photos, don’t use early access apps. One accident can make you lose it all!

Similarly, Google Play currently also allows separate betas of existing apps. A beta build can give you access to experimental new features, but again, there’s a higher risk of running into bugs and issues.

Note that some developers may limit how many users can install their apps when they are marked as early access or beta. If full, you may have to wait until some users uninstall or the developer increases the limit.

Are you interested in trying out early access and beta apps? Or is it too dangerous for you? Tell us in the comments!