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Google's getting ready to roll out a long overdue overhaul of its Android Market -- but the upgrade isn't all good news.

Google officially announced the plans for the revamped Market late Friday, just in time for this week's launch of the first Android Gingerbread phone. Most of the changes are cosmetic improvements that should make it easier to find and evaluate apps. One change, however, will actually cut back on a previously available benefit -- and if you aren't aware of it, you could easily get caught off-guard.

The change affects the Android Market's return policy. Right now, you can return any paid app within 24 hours and receive a full refund. With the upcoming Android Market upgrade, that window of opportunity will experience some significant shrinkage.

Google's adjusted Android Market return policy will allow for returns only within the first 15 minutes of a paid app purchase. After the first 15 minutes, your purchase will be final.

"Most users who request a refund do so within minutes of purchase," explains Google's Eric Chu.

In reality, I suspect Chu is right: For most users, the change probably won't be a big deal. But after nearly two years of having a 24-hour risk-free evaluation period, the updated policy is certainly something to keep in mind when making your next purchase.

So there's the caution -- now for the good stuff: The Android Market upgrade introduces a completely refreshed interface. As part of the new look, the main Market landing page features a "carousel"-based system for application browsing. That same system appears on individual category pages, too.

Blogs.computerworld.com has the details HERE!