Do I Need New Accounts To Install Apps On A Second Phone

^{Article Updated on November 21, 2021, to reflect current details on adding devices to Google Play.}

Adding devices to Google Play is simple, and you can do it on many devices. Even iOS devices can use Google Play. However, they can't use Google Play Games, which are exclusive to Android and Chrome OS devices.

Read on for a detailed guide on adding devices to Google Play, we'll also cover some other essential tips.

How to Add a Device in Google Play

Whenever you open the Play Store app, it connects to the currently used Google Account. You can easily switch between accounts within the app, but they must be registered on the device in order to become selectable. Doing so enables you to attach Google accounts to the currently used smartphone, Chromebook, or tablet.

This scenario means that you can register a Google account on any device and it will get linked to that device within the Play Store, therefore adding a new device. Now, if you were to access the Play Store in a web browser, any apps you choose to install will have the option to select the devices (those within your Google Account).

So, if you get a second phone, add your Google account, and connect to the Play Store app, that phone is now a new device in your Play Store account.

Without any ado, here is how to add a device to your Google Play account:

Launch the Settings app on your Android, Chromebook, or iOS device.
Next, you need to select Accounts (Users and Accounts on some devices) > Add account > Google.
Enter your Google credentials (the ones you use for Gmail), press Next, and follow the on-screen instructions.
You now have a new Google account attached to the device, meaning you have successfully added a new device to the Google Play Store.

Adding a Payment Method to Google Play

Note that you will need to set up a payment method if you want to buy apps, books, movies, or TV shows within your account and on your selected devices. Without a payment method, you can only download free apps and games on any device.

Follow the instructions to add your preferred payment method to Your Google Play account:

Visit the official Google Play payment methods website on any browser.
Tap on Add credit or debit card, below the Add payment method tab on the site.
Enter your card number, expiry date, and CVC. Then, add your name and billing address.
Press Save, and your payment method will be saved.

Devices and Google Play

Switching between Google Play accounts is easy. When you want to change devices, the process is a bit more tedious, due to security protocols. Google will send you an email or a text warning you about someone accessing your Google Play account from a different device.

Confirm that it's you who is accessing the account, and you should be able to use your Google Play account on a different device in no time.