New App Testing Requirements for Google Play Store Accounts

Google Play Store has undergone some major modifications regarding the Google Play Store App Uploading Policy. These developments will improve the quality of the apps, facilitate the testing experience, and improve user experience. The diverse testing tracks available in Play Console and actionable steps for developers with personal accounts to ensure compliance with the updated policy. This blog deep dive into updates in the Google Play Store App Uploading Policy.

The New Testing Requirements by the Google Play Store

Testing is the basic foundation of app development, supporting developers in finding issues, collecting feedback, and ensuring seamless user experiences before the official launch. To uphold stringent quality standards, developers with personal accounts initiated after 13 November 2023 are mandated to fulfill specific testing prerequisites before their apps can be made accessible on Google Play.

1. Closed Testing

Closed testing allows developers to share their apps with a controlled cohort of users for comprehensive testing ahead of the official launch. Access to closed testing necessitates developers to ensure the completion of their app setup and enlist a minimum of 20 testers who have continuously opted in for the preceding 14 days.

Guidelines for Closed Testing

Recruiting testers, engaging with testers, and collecting user feedback are essential aspects of closed testing. Developers aim to recruit professional testers, provide instructions, and respond to feedback throughout the testing phase.

1. Collect and View User Feedback Developers can access and respond to user feedback in Play Console. Feedback from users can only be seen by you. It can't be seen on the Google Play Store. Keep a record of the feedback received to help identify common themes or issues.

2. Engage with Testers Recruiters provide testers with instructions on how to test your app and report bugs. Encourage testers to use as many features as possible to receive comprehensive feedback. Include a feedback channel or let users know how they can provide feedback. Respond promptly to feedback and remain responsive throughout the testing phase.

3. Applying for Production Access Upon meeting closed testing prerequisites, developers can initiate the application process for production access via the Dashboard in Play Console. This includes answering questions in closed testing, information about production access and details about the app.

4. Estimated Time It takes 5 to 7 days for app approval on production. The Closed Testing enrollment period is 14 days. It takes up to 5 days for Closed Testing Approval. It takes 3 days to get approval for enabling production.

The introduction of new app testing conditions to Google Play Store accounts shows that the latter is determined to maintain the high level of quality and the user experience. Developers make sure that their apps are of high quality and effective user interface on their journey to reach users on the Google Play Store. Using different testing phases, identifying the right testers, collecting feedback, and completing the production access process are essential to successfully adapting to the new changes.