Publishing an Android app is no longer just a technical task, its a business decision. Whether you’re a startup founder, developer, or product owner, knowing how to publish an app on Google Play correctly can save weeks of delays, rejections, and costly mistakes.
This guide walks you through the exact process to upload, test, and release an app on Google Play Store, including common pitfalls, approval requirements, and tips for Flutter and native Android apps.
What You Need Before Publishing an App on Google Play
Before learning how to upload an app on Play Store, make sure the basics are ready. Google Play has become stricter in recent years, and missing even one requirement can block your release.
1. Google Play Developer Account
You need a Google Play Developer account to publish an app on Google Play Store.
- One-time registration fee: $25
- Account is lifetime
- Requires a Google account and identity verification
There is no official way to publish an app on Google Play Store for free, but the $25 fee is a one-time cost.
2. A Signed App Bundle (AAB)
Google Play now requires Android App Bundle (AAB) instead of APK.
If you’re building:
- Android Studio (Java/Kotlin) → Export AAB
- Flutter → Build AAB using flutter build appbundle
This is mandatory to publish an Android app on Google Play Store.
3. App Readiness Checklist
Before you deploy:
- App name finalized
- No crashes or test data
- Production API keys configured
- Privacy policy URL ready
- App icon and screenshots prepared
Step 1: Create an App in Google Play Console
Log in to Google Play Console and click Create app.
You’ll be asked to:
- Select default language
- Enter app name
- Choose app type (App or Game)
- Declare if its free or paid
This step officially starts the Google Play deploy app process.
Step 2: Set Up App Content and Compliance
Google focuses heavily on policy compliance. This is where many apps get rejected.
How to Publish an Android App on Google Play Store - Access & Privacy
You must declare:
- Whether login is required
- How users can access the app
- Privacy policy URL (mandatory for most apps)
Data Safety Form
You must clearly state:
- What data you collect
- Why you collect it
- Whether data is shared with third parties
Even a simple contact form requires disclosure.
Step 3: Prepare Your Store Listing
This is the public-facing side of your app and a critical step in how to release an app on Google Play.
How to Publish Flutter App on Google Play Store - Required Assets
- App title (30 characters)
- Short description (80 characters)
- Full description (up to 4,000 characters)
- App icon (512×512)
- Feature graphic (1024×500)
- Screenshots (phone, tablet if applicable)
Use clear language that explains what the app does and who its for. Avoid keyword stuffing.
Step 4: Upload App Bundle (AAB)
Now its time to upload app on Play Store.
- Go to Production → Create new release
- Upload your AAB file
- Add release notes
- Review version code and build info
If you’re using CI/CD, you can automate this step, but manual upload works fine for first releases.
Step 5: Configure Testing Tracks (Highly Recommended)
Google encourages testing before full release.
Available Testing Options
- Internal testing (up to 100 testers)
- Closed testing
- Open testing
Running tests reduces rejection risk and improves approval speed when you finally publish an app on Google Play.
Step 6: Review and Publish
Once everything is completed:
- Run Pre-launch report
- Fix warnings or errors
- Submit app for review
Review Time
- New accounts: 3–7 days (sometimes longer)
- Updates: a few hours to 2 days
After approval, your app goes live automatically.
How to Publish a Flutter App on Google Play Store
Flutter apps follow the same Play Console process, but with a few technical differences.
Flutter-Specific Steps
- Update applicationId in build.gradle
- Configure signing keys.
- Run: flutter build appbundle.
- Upload the generated AAB file
Thats it. Google treats Flutter apps like native Android apps during review.
How Do You Make an App for Google Play?
If you’re still in the planning stage, heres the high-level process:
- Define app purpose and target users
- Choose tech stack (native Android, Flutter, React Native)
- Design UI and UX
- Develop features
- Test thoroughly
- Publish on Google Play Store
Knowing how to make an app for Google Play Store is important, but publishing success depends heavily on compliance and preparation.
Common Reasons Apps Get Rejected
Understanding this helps avoid delays when learning how to publish an app on Google Play.
- Missing or unclear privacy policy
- Incorrect Data Safety declaration
- App crashes during review
- Misleading app description
- Use of restricted permissions
Google is strict but predictable if guidelines are followed.
Can You Publish an App on Google Play Store for Free?
Short answer: No.
Google requires a $25 one-time developer account fee. There are no recurring charges to keep your app live.
After that, publishing, updating, and managing apps is free.
How to Publish an App on Google Play Store for Free - Launch Checklist
Once your app is live:
- Monitor crashes in Play Console
- Respond to user reviews
- Track installs and retention
- Push updates regularly
Publishing is not the end, its the start of growth and optimization.
How to Upload App on Play Store - Final Thoughts
Learning how to publish an app on Google Play Store is less about coding and more about process, accuracy, and compliance. When done right, its a smooth experience. When rushed, it leads to rejections and delays.
If you’re building or launching an Android app and want expert guidance from development to deployment, OhadTech helps businesses ship apps that meet Google standards and scale confidently.
How to Create an App for Google Play Store - FAQs
How much does it cost to publish an app in PKR on Google Play?
Publishing an app on Google Play costs a one-time USD $25 developer fee, which is approximately PKR 7,000–8,000 depending on the exchange rate.
There are no monthly or recurring charges to keep your app live on the Play Store.
Can I publish my android app on Google Play for free? Is there any workaround?
No, Google Play does not allow free app publishing, you must pay a one-time $25 developer registration fee to publish any Android app.
There is no legitimate workaround, as apps from unregistered accounts are not accepted on the Play Store.
How to earn 1000 Google Play points in quick time?
You can earn 1,000 Google Play Points quickly by making in-app purchases during Points Boost events and completing weekly point challenges.
Buying discounted apps, games, or subscriptions during promotions accelerates points much faster than regular spending.
How many days does it take to publish an app on Google Play store?
For a new developer account, Google Play app approval takes 3 to 7 days after submission.
For existing accounts and updates, approval can be completed within a few hours to 2 days.