What Are the Requirements for Publishing an Android App on the Google Play Console?

Publishing an app on the Google Play Store is an exciting milestone for any developer or business. But before your app reaches millions of Android users, you must meet specific requirements on the Google Play Console. Missing even a small step can delay approval or lead to rejection.

This guide walks you through the complete checklist of requirements so you can confidently publish your Android app on the Play Store.

1. Google Play Console Developer Account

The first and most important requirement is a Google Play Console Developer Account. Without it, you can’t publish apps on the Play Store.

• One-time registration fee: $25 (non-refundable).
• Requirements to register:
  • A valid Google account.
  • A payment method to pay the registration fee.
  • Developer details (name, contact email, phone, and physical address).

Once approved, your account allows you to publish and manage multiple apps.

2. App Package (APK or AAB)

You’ll need a ready-to-publish app file:

• App Bundle (AAB): Google now requires all new apps to be published as Android App Bundles instead of APKs.
• Signed release build: You must sign your app with a secure keystore before uploading.
• Target SDK requirements: Apps must target the latest API level mandated by Google.

Pro tip: Always test your app thoroughly in release mode to avoid crashes after publishing.

3. Store Listing Information

A polished store listing is essential for app visibility and downloads. The requirements include:

• App title (up to 30 characters).
• Short description (up to 80 characters).
• Full description (up to 4,000 characters).
• High-quality app icon (512 x 512 px).
• Feature graphic (1024 x 500 px).
• Screenshots (minimum 2, recommended 5–8).
• App category & tags.
• Contact details (email, website, and phone number).

These details help users understand your app and improve your ranking in Play Store search.

4. Policy & Compliance Requirements

Google takes user safety and policy compliance very seriously. To publish your app, you must:

• Add a Privacy Policy URL (mandatory for apps that collect data).
• Complete the Data Safety Form in Play Console.
• Declare app permissions (like camera, location, contacts).
• Comply with Play Store policies:
  • No malware or harmful behavior.
  • No misleading content or spam.
  • Ads must follow Google’s guidelines.

Failure to follow these rules can lead to rejection or suspension.

5. App Testing & Review

Before going live, your app must pass Google’s review process.

• Testing options:
  • Internal testing (up to 100 testers).
  • Closed testing (invite-only).
  • Open testing (available to everyone).

• Review timeline: Usually takes hours to a few days, depending on the app category.

Submitting your app for internal testing first helps catch last-minute issues.

6. Payment & Monetization Setup (Optional)

If your app includes in-app purchases or subscriptions, you must:

• Set up a Google Play Payments Profile.
• Configure in-app products or subscription plans.
• Ensure compliance with Google’s billing policies.

Free apps can skip this step.

7. Final Checklist Before Publishing

Here’s a quick publishing checklist:

• Google Play Developer Account
• Signed AAB file ready
• Store listing assets (icon, screenshots, descriptions)
• Privacy Policy & Data Safety form
• Permissions declared correctly
• Testing completed
• Review submission

Once everything is complete, you can hit Publish, and your app will be available on the Google Play Store after approval. 

Publishing an app on the Google Play Console may seem overwhelming at first, but with the right preparation, it’s a smooth process. Meeting all the requirements ensures your app not only gets approved but also builds trust with users.

If you need professional help to publish your Android app on Google Play Console without errors, check out my Publish an Android App on Google Play Console Service — I’ll handle everything for you!