Bringing a mobile app to market requires more than just development and UX optimization. If you want users to find and install your app, it must be properly listed on the Google Play Store for Android or the Apple App Store for iOS. This guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough of both submission processes, including account setup, compliance checks, optimization strategies, and what to expect during app review.
Before starting the submission process, it is important to understand the fundamental differences between the two platforms. Google Play has a more automated review system with a faster turnaround time, while the Apple App Store uses manual reviewers and has stricter guidelines. Knowing this helps tailor your submission process accordingly.
Ensure your app is thoroughly tested and free of bugs. It must be properly prepared and readied for release. For many users, you only get one chance with them. Use emulators and real devices to test performance, UI responsiveness, and functionality across different operating systems and screen sizes. Finalize your version number and codebase before submission.
Perform beta testing with TestFlight or a similar method. Testing allows you to gather user feedback before launching publicly. You can invite thousands of users to jump on your app and test its functionality. This can be highly valuable as you discover usability issues and performance bugs early before it hits wide release.
Create a release-ready version of your app for each platform.
Ensure that build configurations meet store requirements, including code signing and provisioning profiles.
Please note that both platforms allow you to choose between an immediate release or a scheduled launch date. You can also release in specific regions first or perform a staged rollout to manage demand and monitor stability.
Each store enforces strict guidelines for content, privacy, and functionality. It is imperative that your mobile app meets these guidelines. Review the official documents before submission: Google Play Developer Policy and App Store Review Guidelines.
Non-compliance may result in rejection or removal from the store.
With regards to app privacy and security, your app must comply with every standard issued by each store. Your app’s data collection and usage practices have to be clearly communicated in a privacy policy. Proper data encryption is important to protecting sensitive information. If your app uses a camera, microphone, or location services, user permissions must be requested and a clear explanation of each feature’s usage is also important. All of this will help your app get approved while also building trust with your user base.
Be sure to create and optimize an app listing that best sets you up to get a click and download from interested users.
Create a catchy app name and subtitle. Include a high-quality icon. Get screenshots and promotional videos. Write a detailed description that is keyword-optimized. Include your contact information and privacy policy URL.
Throughout this process, always highlight features and benefits. Many developers and designers will tell you that you can’t polish an app enough. App quality matters. Make sure your app is complete and fully functional as you intend before submitting your app to any store.
The keywords you choose are particularly important as they are needed to improve discoverability. The higher your rank, the more downloads your app will receive.
Perform keyword research before you list to ensure the right keywords are included in the app title and description. To reach broader audiences, use localization. Consider monitoring competitor listings for strategic insights on how to proceed with formatting your app store listing.
To publish on Google Play, you must register for a Google Play Developer account.
To do this, go to the Google Play Console. Pay a one-time registration fee of $25 USD and agree to the terms and conditions. From there, you can set up your developer profile. This account allows you to manage apps, track performance, and update listings.
Your app is ready? Here is what to do to get your app to go live for Google Android users around the world.
Use internal testing or open beta channels before public release to gather important user feedback.
Publishing on iOS requires an Apple Developer account. It is not that much different from how you register on Google Play.
Visit the Apple Developer Program and enroll as an individual or organization. Pay the annual fee of $99 USD. Complete the identity verification process to complete the process. If publishing on behalf of a business, more information will be required to verify your company’s legal status.
As you’ll discover, the process to upload your mobile app to iOS users is simple, easy, and fast.
Include a test account if a login is required during the review process.
Google Play uses an automated system, but still conducts manual checks for flagged content. App review typically takes a few hours to a few days.
Apple reviews every app manually. Standard review can take 24 to 48 hours, but may take longer for complex or new submissions. Expedited review is available in urgent cases.
Both platforms provide real-time status updates. Google Play Console displays review status and issues in the dashboard. App Store Connect shows app status (Waiting for Review, In Review, Rejected, or Approved). If rejected, detailed feedback is provided so you can revise and resubmit.
Come launch day for your app on Android and iOS, now’s the time to coordinate the release with promotion.
Share your app on social media platforms. Reach out to app review sites to get listed there. Send out press releases or partner with influencers to further push out your reach. Use email campaigns and push notifications to connect with any audience you may already be connected to.
Building initial momentum helps with store rankings and user acquisition short-term and long-term.
Once your app is live, track key metrics. This includes app downloads and uninstalls, crash reports and stability scores, retention rates, and user reviews and ratings. This will give you a sense of how to enhance and optimize your app, and how to strengthen your weak points.
For many businesses releasing an app, they may want to consider how to further monetize an app. In-app purchases, subscriptions, paid app downloads, and in-app advertisements are all potential options. Should you go this route, set up payment accounts and tax details in the developer console. Ensure your app complies with store-specific monetization rules.
Use Google Play Console and App Store Connect dashboards to gather insights and prioritize future updates. Be sure to maintain your app’s performance and user satisfaction with regular updates. Bug fixes, new features, and compatibility updates keep your app relevant and functional. Updating also improves your app’s visibility in the store.
Getting your app listed on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store involves more than uploading a file. From setting up developer accounts to optimizing your app listing and complying with review guidelines, each step is crucial for a successful launch.
This guide has all the basics you need to know to launch an app in these two stores. As simple as it may seem to list, success is not guaranteed.
Any error or problem in the preparation of an app can sabotage its long-term potential. Both Google and Apple place a strong emphasis on app quality and user experience. More than any other element of an app, these are the components to focus on to make sure your app is ready to list.
If you have not listed an app before and you’re about to launch your first app, consider the advantages of hiring a developer to help.
Lets Nurture is an app development company that can assist in creating and readying an app for you and/or your organization. As your app developer, we will ensure your app is approved, discoverable, and ready to compete in a crowded market.
