New Delhi, May 4 (IANS) US tech giant Google on Monday announced that it opened applications for the third cohort of its Google Play Accelerator India, a three‑month, equity‑free program to support AI‑powered apps and games startups across India.

As many as 20 India‑based startups between Seed and Series A stages with a published app on the Google Play Store will be selected for the cohort beginning in July 2026, the release from Google said.

They must also use artificial intelligence and machine learning in a core capacity to build products for Indian and global users in order to be eligible for the program.

“Through the program, Google aims to help high-potential startups improve app quality, scale AI-led innovation, and accelerate business growth by providing access to its technology, expertise, and global network,” the release said.

The program offers a 12‑week curriculum covering app quality, growth, design, data safety and global expansion.

Each selected startup is paired with a dedicated Google Startup Success Manager and receives access to mentorship sessions, technical audits, and custom reports on app performance and security. Past cohorts have logged over 300 hours of mentoring across participating companies.

“India’s developer ecosystem is building some of the most innovative, AI-first applications for users at scale,” said Paul Ravindranath, Regional Lead, Developer Relations – Startup and Expert Programs, Google.

“With Google Play Accelerator India, we are focused on helping startups strengthen app quality, integrate advanced AI capabilities, and unlock new growth opportunities both in India and globally,” Paul added.

The program runs as a hybrid — an intensive in-person bootcamp in the first week, followed by two months of virtual mentorship and on-demand sessions. It concludes with an in-person Demo Day in November 2026, where startups present to Google teams, investors, media, and ecosystem stakeholders.

Alumni from previous cohorts have used the programme to ship measurable product improvements, the statement said.

—IANS

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