Want to turn your AI-generated app idea into a published Android app? Here's the process in simple terms:
- Start with a Vibe-Coded Prototype: Use AI to create a working app prototype by just describing your idea. Platforms like Adalo can transform this into a fully functional Android app.
- Set Up a Google Play Console Account: Register as a developer for $25 and provide required details like ID and contact info.
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Prepare Your App in Adalo: Use Adalo to configure your app settings, integrate Firebase, and generate the required
.AABfile for Google Play. - Upload to Google Play Console: Add your app's build file, complete the store listing (descriptions, images, privacy policy), and set up testing.
- Test and Submit for Review: Share your app with testers, fix any issues, and submit it for Google’s review (takes 2–7 days).
- Meet Compliance Standards: Ensure your app follows Google’s policies, including accurate content ratings and metadata.
Adalo simplifies the technical steps, so you can focus on your app's features. Adalo also lets you build one app for web, iOS, and Android — including PWA and app store publishing—from a single AI-assisted platform. Publishing on Google Play opens access to billions of Android users, boosts app credibility, and enhances discoverability.
6-Step Process to Publish Vibe-Coded App on Google Play Store
How to Publish an Android App to Google Play | Updated 2024
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Step 1: Create Your Google Play Console Account
To manage your app's publication, updates, and user interactions, you'll need to set up a Google Play Console developer account.
Sign Up for a Developer Account
Head over to Google Play Console and sign in with your existing Google Account. You'll need to agree to the Google Play Developer Distribution Agreement and pay a one-time registration fee of $25. This fee is non-refundable.
Accepted payment methods include MasterCard, Visa, and American Express globally. If you're in the U.S., Discover cards are also accepted. Outside the U.S., Visa Electron is an option. However, prepaid cards are not accepted.
To register, you must be at least 18 years old. You'll need to provide a valid government ID and credit card under your legal name, as Google verifies this information. If the details don’t match, you risk losing the registration fee.
Set Up Your Developer Profile
After completing the payment, you'll choose between a Personal or Organization account.
- Personal accounts are ideal for individuals, students, or hobbyists.
- Organization accounts are for businesses or non-profits and require a D-U-N-S number from Dun & Bradstreet. Keep in mind that obtaining a D-U-N-S number can take up to 30 days, so plan accordingly.
Next, you'll need to enter your contact information, including a verified email and phone number. Google will confirm these details using a one-time password. For organization accounts, it’s best to use a shared team inbox or an official company email to ensure access over time.
| Information Required | Personal Account | Organization Account |
|---|---|---|
| Developer Name | Required (Public) | Required (Public) |
| Legal Name/Address | Required (from Payment Profile) | Required (from Payment Profile) |
| D-U-N-S Number | Not Required | Required |
| Contact Email & Phone | Required (Private) | Required (Private) |
| Developer Email | Required (Public) | Required (Public) |
| Website | Not Required | Required |
Remember, Google displays certain details publicly on the Play Store. For personal accounts, this includes your developer name, country, and developer email. For organization accounts, additional information such as your legal name, address, and phone number will also be visible.
Once your developer account is set up, you can move on to building your app from scratch or configuring your existing project in Adalo.
Step 2: Prepare Your App in Adalo
Now that your Google Play Console account is set up, it’s time to move your app prototype into Adalo. This step is where your idea takes shape as a fully functional Android application.
Import or Rebuild Your Prototype
Adalo’s visual builder makes it easy to bring your prototype to life. You can either import your existing vibe-coded prototype or rebuild it directly within Adalo. The platform even offers AI-assisted tools to help you set up your database and layout. Just describe what your app does, and Adalo will create a starting framework that you can tweak using its drag-and-drop editor.
To get started, go to Project Settings and click the Android icon. This action initializes your project, setting it up for deployment on the Google Play Store.
Configure Your App Settings
The first step in configuring your app is to define its Package Name. Use the format com.appname.android and choose carefully - this identifier becomes permanent once your app goes live on the Google Play Store and cannot be changed later.
Next, integrate Firebase into your app. You’ll need to upload the google-services.json file and the Service Account Key from your Firebase project into Adalo. Additionally, make sure to upload a Notifications Icon that meets Google’s asset requirements.
Before generating your Android build file, finalize these key elements:
- App Icon: Must be 512 x 512 pixels and under 1,024 KB in size.
- Feature Graphics: Should be 1,024 x 500 pixels.
- Display Name: The name users will see for your app.
- Splash Screen: The image or animation displayed when the app launches.
- Permissions: Specify any permissions your app requires to function properly.
Generate Your Android Build File
Once your app is configured, navigate to the Publish tab in Adalo’s left-hand toolbar and select Android App. Google Play mandates the use of the Android App Bundle (AAB) format, which Adalo generates automatically. AAB files are optimized for smaller download sizes and faster updates for users.
Start a new Android Build, and Adalo will display an estimated timer for the build process. If this is the first time you’re using a specific Package Name, Adalo will automatically generate the required Upload Certificate. Once the build is ready, download your AAB file by clicking the download icon. This file will be uploaded to the Google Play Console in the next step.
Keep in mind that AAB files are designed for Google Play installations. If you need to test your app via sideloading, use the Signed Universal APK available through the App Bundle Explorer.
Step 3: Upload Your App to Google Play Console
Once your AAB file is ready, the next step is to upload it to the Google Play Console and provide the details users will see when they come across your app in the store.
Upload Your Build File
Start by navigating to All Apps and selecting Create App. Here, you'll define your app's name, choose the default language, specify whether it's an App or Game, and indicate if it's Free or Paid.
Next, head to Testing > Internal testing from the menu on the left and click Create New Release. Google will ask for permission to generate and manage your app signing key - this is essential for ensuring secure updates and app integrity. Once that's done, click Upload and select the AAB file you downloaded from Adalo. If you encounter minor warnings, don’t worry - these usually won’t prevent you from publishing.
Using internal testing, you can share your app with up to 100 testers. This step is a great way to identify potential issues in a real-world setting before sending your app for Google’s official review.
After uploading your build, it’s time to complete your store listing, which highlights key app details for potential users.
Complete Your Store Listing
In the Main Store Listing, provide your app's Name, Short Description, and Long Description.
You’ll also need to prepare and upload visual assets. These include:
| Asset Type | Minimum Requirement |
|---|---|
| Phone Screenshots | At least 3 screenshots showing the app in use |
| Tablet Screenshots | At least 1 screenshot for 7-inch and 10-inch tablets |
| App Icon | 512 x 512 pixels, under 1,024 KB |
| Feature Graphic | 1,024 x 500 pixels |
Once your visuals are uploaded, move on to setting up your app's content and privacy settings.
Set Up Content and Privacy Settings
Before submitting your app, complete the App Content section. This includes three key elements: your privacy policy, target audience, and content ratings.
Your privacy policy must be hosted on a live URL (not a PDF). It should clearly explain what data your app collects, how long it’s retained, when it is deleted, and how users can contact you (e.g., an email address).
For content ratings, complete the questionnaire provided by the International Age Rating Coalition (IARC). Answer honestly about your app’s content, including elements like violence, offensive language, or web-based content. If your app requires a login, make sure to provide a working test account in the App Access section. Avoid using special characters like “*” in the credentials, as they can cause issues for reviewers. Misrepresenting your app’s content can result in removal or even account suspension.
Step 4: Test and Submit Your App for Review
Once your app build is uploaded and your store listing is ready, it’s time to test everything thoroughly before submitting it for review. This step ensures your app is polished and meets all requirements before it goes live.
Run Internal Testing
Internal testing allows you to share your app with a small group of testers almost instantly. You can invite up to 100 testers per app by using their Gmail or Google Workspace email addresses.
To add testers, go to Testing > Internal testing > Testers and create an email list. Don’t forget to include your own email to experience the app as a user. Once the release is rolled out, copy the "Join on Android" or "Join on the web" link from the Testers tab and share it with your team.
Because internal testers don’t leave public reviews, make sure to provide a private feedback channel, like a URL or email address, where they can report any issues. This phase is critical for spotting bugs, verifying functionality, and ensuring everything runs smoothly before opening up to a larger audience.
Move to Open Testing or Production
After internal testing is complete and your app is functioning as expected, you can move on to Open Testing or Production. During this step, you’ll need to select your target regions and ensure all App Content declarations are finalized.
Unlike internal testing, open testing and production require a full review by Google, which typically takes 2–7 days. If you’re using a personal developer account created after November 13, 2023, you’ll also need to meet specific testing requirements, such as having at least 20 testers for 14 days, before you can release your app to production.
Submit for Google Review
To submit your app for review, head to the Publishing overview page and click Send for review. Once submitted, Google will review your app, a process that generally takes 2–7 days.
You can monitor your app’s review status in the Publishing overview section. If Google identifies any issues - like policy violations or broken features - you’ll receive a notification with specific details. Address these issues quickly and resubmit your app to avoid unnecessary delays in launching your app on the Play Store.
Step 5: Meet Compliance Requirements and Fix Common Issues
Google Play has strict compliance rules that can delay or block your app's launch if not followed. Understanding these rules and addressing common rejection issues - especially for Adalo-built apps - can help you get approval more efficiently.
Google Play Compliance Requirements
To meet Google Play's standards, ensure you've completed all declarations in the App Content section. This includes details about ads, news, or COVID-19-related features. Mark each item as complete by following the Play Console's on-screen instructions.
You'll also need a privacy policy hosted on an active URL. This policy must clearly explain how your app collects, uses, and shares data. Include a link to this policy in both your Play Store listing and within the app itself.
If your app requires login credentials, provide up to five sets of test credentials in the App Content section. To do this, go to Policy and programs > App content > App access in the Play Console. Use the "Any other instructions" field to explain any complex login setups, like multi-factor authentication or one-time passwords, so Google reviewers can access all parts of your app.
Make sure your app listing complies with Google's metadata and screenshot guidelines. Screenshots should showcase the app in action, not just the login or welcome screens.
Fix Common Rejection Issues
While Adalo's build process helps minimize errors, you'll need to double-check for compliance yourself. Google provides detailed rejection feedback, explaining why an app was denied and how to fix it. You can track your app's review status in the All Apps Dashboard of the Google Play Console.
One frequent issue is incomplete App Content declarations. Check the "Needs attention" tab in the Play Console regularly to ensure all required sections are complete.
Package Name inconsistencies are another common problem. Your Adalo app's Package Name must exactly match your Firebase project. These names are case-sensitive and cannot be updated once the app listing is created. If you need to change the Package Name later, it will be treated as an entirely new app, disrupting your update cycle.
Metadata and asset issues are also a frequent cause of rejection. Screenshots that fail to meet Google's guidelines - such as low-quality images or irrelevant screens - can lead to delays. Use Adalo's device previewer and screen capture tools like Snipping Tool (Windows) or Mac Screen Capture to create high-quality screenshots of your app's features. For icons and feature graphics, tools like Canva or Adobe Express can help ensure your files meet Google's size and format specifications.
Before moving your app to Production, upload your .AAB file to the Internal Testing track. This lets you identify and address critical warnings in a controlled environment.
Prepare Vibe-Coded Apps for Approval
Once you've addressed compliance and common issues, focus on ensuring your vibe-coded app meets Google's functionality standards. Google will only approve apps that work as intended. Test your app thoroughly on real Android devices to confirm all features perform as expected.
Use the Internal, Closed, and Open testing tracks to identify and resolve issues before releasing your app to the public. Internal testing allows up to 100 testers, while closed testing supports up to 200 lists with a maximum of 2,000 users each.
Enable Google Play App Signing to add an extra layer of security. This feature ensures that all future updates come from you as the verified developer, protecting your app from unauthorized modifications.
Finally, make sure your target audience declarations are accurate. If your app is designed for children, you must comply with Google's Families policy. Incorrect declarations can result in immediate rejection or removal from the Play Store.
| Requirement | Details | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Privacy Policy | Active URL explaining data use/sharing | Required for apps targeting children or using sensitive permissions |
| App Access | Up to 5 test credentials | Allows Google reviewers to access restricted app sections |
| Screenshots | Minimum 3 showing app functionality | Must display real features, not just login or welcome screens |
| App Content Declarations | Complete all policy sections | Incomplete declarations block production release |
Conclusion: Launch Your App and Plan Next Steps
Review of the Publishing Steps
Here's a quick recap of the process to get your app live on Google Play:
- Set up your Google Play Console account: This requires a one-time $25 fee.
- Configure your app in Adalo: Generate your Android App Bundle (.AAB file).
- Upload your build: Add it to the Play Console and complete your store listing with screenshots and descriptions.
- Run internal testing: Identify and fix issues before launching.
- Meet compliance requirements: This includes submitting a privacy policy and making app content declarations to ensure Google approves your app.
Adalo simplifies the technical side of things by handling the creation of production-ready Android builds, even on the Adalo Free Plan. That means you can focus on designing your app's features and delivering a great user experience.
What to Do After Launch
Once your app is live, the real work begins. Managing your app post-launch is just as important as building it. Here are some key steps to keep in mind:
- Monitor your app's performance: Use the Google Play Console to track downloads, user ratings, and crash reports. Keep in mind that updates typically take Google 2–7 days to review, so plan your release schedule accordingly.
- Collect user feedback: Use testing tracks to gather insights. Internal Testing supports up to 100 testers, while Closed Testing allows up to 2,000 users per list. You can also set up a feedback URL in the Play Console to direct users to a survey or support form for reporting bugs or suggesting improvements.
When you're ready to roll out updates, Adalo makes it easy to iterate on your app. Simply specify changes in plain language - like "Add a button to clear completed tasks" - and the platform will handle the updates. Use the device previewer to capture new screenshots that showcase your latest features. Update your store listing through the Play Console and document changes in the Release Notes section so users know what's new.
With Adalo's efficient workflow, you can keep improving your app and delivering value to your users without missing a beat.
FAQs
What are the main requirements for publishing a vibe-coded app on Google Play?
To get your vibe-coded app onto Google Play, you'll first need a Google Developer Account, which requires a one-time $25 fee. Your app should be packaged as an Android App Bundle (.AAB) and signed with the same certificate you used during development. Keep in mind that the package name you choose is permanent once the app is published. Before releasing your app, take advantage of Google Play’s internal, closed, or open testing tracks to catch and fix any technical glitches or user experience problems.
Your store listing needs to follow all compliance rules. This includes providing an app name, short and long descriptions, an app icon, a feature graphic, and at least three high-quality screenshots in the correct format. You'll also need to fill out the App Content sections, which cover details like a privacy policy URL, your target audience, a content rating, and whether your app includes ads or other disclosures. Make sure all visuals and graphics meet Google’s guidelines to avoid any setbacks.
Finally, your app must align with Google Play’s policies. This means avoiding restricted content, adhering to data privacy and security rules, and providing an accurate content rating. Once you've met every requirement and accepted all declarations, you can submit your app for review and get it published.
What is internal testing, and how does it help before submitting an app to Google Play?
Internal testing in the Google Play Console lets you share a pre-release version of your app with up to 100 testers. Once you've created the Android App Bundle (.AAB) in Adalo, you upload it to the Internal testing track. Since .AAB files can't be installed directly, the Play Console generates a private testing link. Testers can use this link to download the app from the Play Store and share their feedback on any issues they encounter.
This testing track is perfect for spotting critical problems, ensuring the app installs properly, and checking its core features on actual devices. After reviewing and addressing the feedback, you can move the app to Closed testing, Open testing, or submit it for Google’s production review.
What should I do if my app gets rejected by Google Play during the review process?
If your app gets rejected by Google Play, the first step is to check the rejection notice in the Release > App releases section of the Play Console. This notice will outline the specific issue, whether it’s a policy violation, a missing privacy policy, or a technical problem like an incorrectly sized app icon or a signing key mismatch.
To fix the problem, make the necessary updates to your Adalo project. This could mean tweaking your app’s content, updating the store listing, replacing assets that don’t meet requirements, or rebuilding the app with the correct package name and signing key. After making the corrections, generate a new build, upload it, and resubmit your app for review. Take a moment to ensure your app adheres to all Google Play policies before submitting again.
If you need more guidance, Adalo provides a Troubleshooting Android Release guide, which covers common issues like package name mismatches or missing declarations. Once your updated build meets all requirements, resubmit it for review. If everything checks out, Google will approve your app for publishing.
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