Google has expanded its retail footprint by introducing a “Shop devices” section in the Google Store, allowing customers to purchase Samsung Galaxy hardware alongside Google Pixel products all in one place. Previously, the Google Store mainly offered its own devices—Pixel phones, Pixel Watches, Nest gear—but has recently made Samsung devices available via special offers or redeemable rewards. That availability has now been formalized.
What’s New in the Shop Devices Tab
The freshly added “Shop devices” tab, now visible for many users in the Play Store, brings together an array of hardware from Google and Samsung. Among the devices listed are the Galaxy S26 and S26 Ultra, Galaxy Watch 9, Galaxy Z Flip 8, along with hardware from Google such as the Pixel 10a, Pixel Watch 4, Pixel 11 Pro Fold, and Pixel 11 / 11 Pro. Accessories like Google TV Streamer are also included.
Users choosing Samsung or Pixel gear through this tab can purchase through the Google Store. The same benefits apply regardless of brand: 10% cashback with Google One, and the ability to apply Google Store credit toward the purchase of Samsung or Pixel devices alike. One significant detail—current pricing on Samsung’s Galaxy S26 line remains consistent with what buyers would see elsewhere in the Google Store.
Why It Matters
This change marks a shift in Google’s strategy—from limited, conditional access to Samsung devices (e.g. via Play Points) to giving them equal standing with Google’s own hardware. Rather than filtering Samsung products through third-party perks or hidden offers, this consolidates device availability, giving consumers more choice without jumping through hoops.
For Samsung, it’s a chance to reach users embedded in Google’s ecosystem. For Google, it strengthens appeal of its Store as a destination not just for its branded gear but for device variety—possibly drawing in buyers interested in Samsung hardware but who also participate in Google programs and benefits.
This won’t apply to every device or every market immediately, but the early rollout suggests Google is accelerating its integration of partner devices into its retail channels.
Analysis: The addition of Samsung devices in the Google Store’s “Shop devices” tab reflects a growing trend toward platform convergence. Consumers increasingly expect ecosystems to offer cross-brand flexibility and unified journeys—whether to buy, support, or earn rewards. Google’s move may spur competitors to rethink store exclusivity and device siloing. The key to watch now: how this affects pricing for Samsung gear over time, and whether other brands will similarly gain equal footing in Google’s retail offerings.
