A Technical Guide to Launch Your App on Google Play & App Store Successfully

For business owners and developers, publishing a mobile app can be a gateway to a vast audience and exponential growth. The global mobile app market is projected to reach a staggering $673 billion by 2027, highlighting the immense potential for app success. Users spend hours in a day glued to their screens and this presents a golden opportunity for businesses and developers to reach a vast audience and achieve their goals. 

Over 257 billion apps were downloaded in 2023 but millions of apps are still vying for attention, so simply building an app isn’t enough. You need a strategic plan to navigate the complexities of publishing on the App Store and Google Play. This guide delves into the technical nitty-gritty, equipping you with the knowledge to confidently launch your app and conquer the app stores.   

Understanding the distinction between these platforms is crucial for tailoring your approach to each platform. Let us look at their technical aspects.

Steps to Publish iOS App on Apple Store

Apple Developer Account:

Register as an Apple Developer (US$99/year) and ensure you comply with App Store Review Guidelines.

App Signing:

Generate signing certificates and provisioning profiles for development, testing, and distribution.

App Bundles:

Submit your app as an App Bundle, a smaller and more optimized format compared to traditional IPA files.

Screenshots and App Icons:

Provide high-resolution screenshots and app icons that adhere to Apple’s design guidelines.

Metadata Optimization:

Craft compelling titles, descriptions, and keywords that resonate with your target audience and improve search visibility.

Steps to Publish App on Google Play Store

Google Play Developer Account:

Register as a Google Play developer (US$25 one-time fee).

App Signing:

Generate a signing key and upload your app signed with this key.

Android App Bundles (AABs):

Similar to App Bundles, AABs offer optimized app sizes and are the recommended format.

Screenshots and App Icons:

Provide high-resolution screenshots and app icons that align with Google’s Material Design principles.

Metadata Optimization:

Optimize your app listing with relevant keywords and descriptions to enhance discoverability in Google Play searches.

What are the pre-launch considerations for apps?

Content Rating:

To achieve this, carefully assess your app’s content for potentially age-restricted elements like violence or gambling. Fill out the detailed questionnaires provided by both platforms with accurate information. Transparency is crucial to avoid delays or rejections. Be prepared to adapt if the age ratings differ slightly between the App Store and Google Play.

Privacy Policy:

Create a comprehensive privacy policy that outlines your data collection and usage practices, adhering to GDPR and CCPA regulations.

Testing:

Rigorously test your app on various devices and operating systems to identify and fix bugs before submission. Consider beta testing programs for valuable user feedback.

App Store Optimization (ASO):

Implement ASO strategies to improve your app’s search ranking and organic visibility within the app stores.

Now that you are familiar with the technical process, let us look at how to submit it. 

Each platform has its own submission portal with specific requirements. Carefully review them to avoid delays or rejections. The review process can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks, so be patient and prepared to address any feedback from the app store reviewers.

However, your journey doesn’t end with the publication of your app. You should continuously monitor app performance, gather user feedback, and iterate based on insights. It would be better if you stay updated on evolving app store guidelines and gather the best practices to ensure your app remains compliant and competitive. 

App stores present a unique set of challenges, from navigating complex guidelines to ensuring a seamless user experience. Our team, well-versed in these intricacies, can guide you through the entire process, transforming your app vision into a reality. We handle the technical hurdles and strategic decisions, allowing you to focus on what matters most – your app’s potential to make a difference. 

Remember, the mobile app market is dynamic and competitive. By equipping yourself with the technical knowledge, understanding the nuances of each platform, and potentially collaborating with experts, you can confidently launch your app and conquer the app stores.

Ready to take the first step? Contact Calibraint’s app development team today and discuss your vision. Together, let’s turn your app idea into a reality.

FAQs

1. What are the key differences between publishing on the App Store and Google Play?

• App Store: Stricter guidelines, curated selection, longer review process.
• Google Play: More open platform, faster review, fiercer competition.

2. What essential technical steps do I need to take before launch?

• Apple: Apple Developer account, App Signing, App Bundles, screenshots, metadata
• Google Play: Google Play Developer account, App Signing, AABs, screenshots, metadata

3. What additional things should I consider before submitting my app?

Content rating, privacy policy, rigorous testing, and App Store Optimization (ASO).

4. How long does the app review process typically take?

It can vary but expect several days to weeks for each platform.

5. Should I consider partnering with app development experts?

Yes, if you want expertise in navigating technical aspects, design, and marketing.

6. What are some additional considerations when working with app development partners?

• Clearly define the scope of work and project deliverables in a contract
• Maintain open communication and regular progress updates throughout the development process
• Be prepared to provide feedback and collaborate effectively with the development team

7. What are the benefits of working with app development experts?

• Save time and resources
• Reduce development risks
• Increase your app’s success
• Gain valuable insights

8. What specific areas of expertise can app development partners offer?

• Technical expertise
• Design expertise
• Marketing expertise
• Project management expertise
• Quality assurance expertise

9. What are some strategies for promoting my app after launch?

Calibraint’s in-house marketing team can assist you with the promotional strategies of your app to ensure that it reaches the intended audience and boosts your overall profits. Here are some strategies we follow-

• Paid advertising
• Social media marketing
• Content marketing
• App store analytics 

10. What are the costs associated with publishing an app?

App Store:

Requires a one-time $99 developer program membership fee.

Google Play:

Requires a one-time $25 registration fee.

Additional costs:

May include server fees, marketing expenses, and developer fees if outsourcing development.