Clients often ask us to build mobile apps. Having your own presence in the major stores (Google Play for Android and App Store for iOS) adds brand value and reach.

For development you can go fully native or use a cross‑platform framework such as Ionic (our favourite) or Flutter to target both stores from one codebase. Today we focus on the publication flow for an Android app in Google Play.

1. Prerequisites

Developer account: Register in Google Play Console (one‑time $25 fee at the time of writing).

Prepare your build: Generate a release (not debug) build and sign it with your private keystore (details omitted here).

2. Create the store listing

In Google Play Console go to All apps → Create app. Enter title, short & full description, category, etc.

3. Graphic assets

Provide:

  • App icon
  • Screenshots (showing UX and core features)
  • Optional promo video (can boost visibility)

4. App details

  • Content rating: Complete questionnaire for age classification.
  • Pricing & distribution: Choose free or paid and select target countries.
  • Advanced settings: Device compatibility, test programs, etc.

5. Upload APK / App Bundle

Test tracks

Google Play supports phased rollout:

  • Internal/Alpha: Small group (team) for early validation.
  • Beta: Broader selected testers for feedback & bug fixing.
  • Production: Public release after stability and quality are confirmed.

Configure tracks

  1. Open your app in the console → App releases / Production / Beta / Internal.
  2. Upload the signed APK or (recommended) Android App Bundle.
  3. Define tester groups (email lists / Google Groups).
  4. Distribute; testers receive a link to install.
  5. Gather feedback; iterate.
  6. Promote between tracks (Alpha → Beta → Production) when ready.

6. Review & launch

Check all metadata and assets, then click Review & publish. Google’s policy review can take from a few hours to several days.

7. Monitor & update

Track crashes, ANRs, ratings and retention metrics. Ship regular updates (fixes, improvements, new features) to keep engagement healthy.

Conclusion

Publishing may look complex initially, but following these structured steps and complying with Google policies gives your app a solid chance to reach millions of users. Good luck with your Android release.