Difference between Google API intel x86 atom and Google Play intel x86 atom sytem image

Question

While downloading Android 8.0 sdk platform using Android Studio, I see these two system images.

1. Google API intel x86 atom system image
2. Google Play in

Answer 1

"Google APIs" images include the Play services that many apps rely on but no Play Store app

"Google Play" images include both the Play Store app and the Play services

For Google's description, see Create and manage virtual devices | Android Developers