How to Launch an App: Google Play Store Step-by-step Guide

Table of Links

• A Comprehensive Guide From HackerNoon
• Google Play Store Step-by-step Guide
• Apple App Store Step-by-step Guide
• Release Notes

Google Play Store Step-by-step Guide

1. Create a Google Play Developer Account:

• [ ]Sign up for a Google Play Developer account at play.google.com/apps/publish.

If the app getting uploaded to the Play Store supports in-app purchases, you will need a merchant account. To create one sign in to your Google Play Console account and click on ‘Reports’ followed by the ‘Financial Reports’ option. After this, select the ‘Set up a merchant account now’ option and simply fill out the details.

Demo video:

2. Prepare App for Submission:

• [ ]

  Ensure the app follows Google Play's Developer Program Policies regarding content, functionality, and design.

• [ ]

  Test app on various Android devices, screen sizes, and OS versions.

• [ ]

  Handle different device orientations and resolutions effectively.

  
  

3. Generate App Store Assets:

• [ ] Design an app icon that complies with Google's Icon Design Guidelines (PNG format, multiple sizes).
• [ ] Capture attractive screenshots that illustrate the app's features and interface.
• [ ] Create a feature graphic/banner for the app's main promotional image.
• [ ] Compose a concise, informative, and keyword-rich app title and description.
• [ ] Prepare localized versions of the app's store listing, if targeting specific regions.

Useful links here and here.

4. Google Play Console:

• [ ] Access the Google Play Console using your developer account credentials.
• [ ] Go to the ‘All applications’ tab; You will see an option ‘Create Application’ – select it
• [ ] From the drop-down menu, choose the application’s default language
• [ ] Fill in the app's details, including title, description, screenshots, pricing, and availability.
• [ ] Configure in-app products, subscriptions, and any necessary app permissions (e.g., camera, location, etc.).
• [ ] Set up content rating for our app based on the appropriate content guidelines - unrated apps won’t be accepted

Here are all the requirements you’ll need to meet before submitting:

5. App Review and Release:

• [ ] Submit the app for review through the Google Play Console.
• [ ] Track the review status and address any issues or requests from the review team promptly.
• [ ] Once approved, choose to release your app immediately or schedule a specific release date.
• [ ] Decide whether your app will be available as a free download or if it will be a paid app.

Here’s a guide by @tutorialsEU that helped us better understand the whole process:

Developer Program Policies - Key Points to Avoid

• Inappropriate Content: Do not include content that is sexually explicit, violent, hateful, or promotes illegal activities.
• Malicious Behavior: Avoid any activities that may harm or exploit users' devices, data, or personal information.
• Intellectual Property: Do not infringe upon others' copyrights, trademarks, or intellectual property rights.
• Privacy and Data: Handle user data securely, obtain appropriate consent, and clearly disclose your app's data collection and usage practices.
• Monetization and Payments: Comply with Google Play's guidelines regarding in-app purchases, subscriptions, and payment processing services.
• Deceptive Behavior: Do not engage in misleading or deceptive behavior, including impersonating other apps or organizations.

Developer Program Policies - Required Elements

• App Functionality: Your app must have a clear purpose and provide a valuable and functional experience to users.
• User Interface: Design your app's UI/UX to be visually appealing, intuitive, and consistent with Google's Design Guidelines.
• App Compatibility: Ensure your app is compatible with a range of devices, screen sizes, and Android OS versions.
• Security and Privacy: Protect user data, handle permissions responsibly, and follow best practices for app security.
• Monetization: If your app includes in-app purchases or subscriptions, clearly communicate their terms and pricing to users.
• Content Policies: Adhere to Google Play's policies regarding prohibited content, such as violence, hate speech, or adult material.