Do you know that Google Play has more than one billion monthly active users? Given its extensive user base, it is a giant platform for distribution, promotion, and sale of Android apps. While the process of publishing an app on this platform is quite simple, it can be daunting for beginners.
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Just like any other such platform, Google Play has a set of rules and regulations. They need to be implemented while publishing the app to prevent any issues in the future. There is a certain procedure as well in this regard. Here is the complete guide to publishing an app on the Google Play store.
Put up information on the publisher account
Creating an account on Google Play Console is mandatory for publishing the app. Create a developer account by using a current Google Account. There is a registration fee that has to be paid once and amounts to $25. There comes a Developer Distribution Agreement first.
Accepting the terms and conditions and make the payment through a debit or credit card. The signup process requires you to fill out the necessary account details like the Developer Name that can be seen by the Google Play users. Your registration can take up to 48 hours to complete.
Create Application
Click on ‘Create Applications’ in the ‘All Applications’ tab on the menu. Pick a language and give the title for your app. The title should be within the limit of 50 characters. Click ‘Create,’ and you are good to go. Your app’s title will be visible on Google Play. However, it can be changed later.
Enter Details
After you create the app, you are required to enter the required details on the store entry page.
The page will inquire about a short description—a quick summary of the app. This description appears on the app’s Play Store listing, and the first thing that will persuade the people to download apps. The first three lines of this description should be perfect and appealing.
Full description has to be completed within 4000 character-limit. This portion should tell about the key features and benefits. This description is visible to the user when he/she opens the store listing. Then, you have to upload screenshots displaying the functioning of your app. While the minimum required screenshots are two, try to add seven or eight best screenshots. Add 7-inch and 10-inch screenshots of the tablet for the ‘Designated for tablets’ list.
Remember that even though uploading a feature graphic is labeled as an option, the app cannot be featured on the Play Store without it. Use a clear and simple image with minimal writing for your app’s promotion. Add a video link on the page and mention whether it is a game or an app.
Upload the APK for your app
Before releasing the app, you need to create a signed app release and unique bundle ID. You will also need expansion files if you are making a large app. Upload the said files in the App release tab on the left menu.
You have to decide between the types of release. The types include Beta and Alpha releases—that enable you to test the app and receive feedback before making the final release. The final release of the app’s live version is Production.
Once you have selected the release type, the next page will appear. On this page, you will find ‘Create Release’ that will take you to the release page. Now is the step to upload App Bundle files or APK, i.e., your app’s source code. There will be a ‘Review’ option at the bottom right. Clicking it will submit the information regarding your app’s release.
Before rolling out the final version of your app, you will need to set the content rating as well as a distribution and pricing plan.
Get your app’s content rating
Click on the ‘Content Rating’ page on the left menu. Type in your email address and enter confirm. Pick the category of your app from the option. You will need to complete a survey for the app rating. Go ahead and fill it. By this step, Google wants to determine if your app contains any explicit content. Save the questionnaire and calculate the rating. You will get the rating of your app on the Play Store. Confirm your app’s content rating by clicking on ‘Apply Rating’.
Formulate pricing and a distribution plan
If you want to earn from the users of your app, you have to set the pricing. You also have to set a distribution plan whether you want it to be released worldwide or to selected countries. Click on the Pricing & Distribution page under the left menu.
There will be two options: FREE or PAID on this page. Select the option you prefer. As for the distribution plan, confirm availability for the countries you intend your app to be released in. The page will also inquire about the suitability of your app for children under the age of 13. Click No if the app is not Primary Child-Detected. If your app shows ads, check Yes for Contains ads.
Publish the app
Finally, it is time to publish the app. You have completed all the required steps. Now, the app is ready to release. Go to ‘App Releases’ at the left menu and select ‘Manage Production’. However, if you still want to test your app, go for beta or alpha option.
Select ‘Edit Release’ and then click ‘Review’ at the bottom right. The next step of the finalization of the app release is to click ‘Start rollout to production.’ You will see a ‘Confirm’ prompt, which is almost the final step. Having done that, your app has successfully entered the digital arena. Google will receive information about your app. The app will reach the countries you have selected for distribution on the Google Play Store.
Promote your App
While you have successfully published your app, this still is not the time to sit back. You have to promote your app for optimal benefit.