Preconditions for Test & Submit of an Android App
There are various assets required to submit or update an Android App. In this article, we will briefly describe the files and accounts required to submit your Purple App to the Google Play Store.
Google Account Have a Google Account to access the Google Play Console, the developer platform for publishing Android apps. Learn more on the external website
Google Play Developer Console Account Use your Google Play Developer Console account to manage your apps, track performance metrics, and publish updates. You'll need to sign up for a Google Play Developer Account, which requires a one-time registration fee. Learn more on the external website
Google Wallet Merchant Account (Payment Account) If you want to sell your app or offer in-app purchases, you'll need to set up a Google Wallet Merchant Account to receive payments. This involves providing banking and tax information. Learn more on the external website
A release version of an Android app must be signed with a keystore file. This is mandatory for all apps on Google Play; to be published there, each app must be signed with a keystore file. Android uses this certificate to identify the creator of an app.
Learn how to Create the keystore file, alias and passwords
When creating the keystore file, you will be asked for a number of parameters that we strongly recommend you write down or save separately, as you will need to enter them later in Purple Manager.
In particular you will need the following information: Keystore file A keystore file is like a secure container for your Android app's digital signature. It's like a virtual lockbox that holds the cryptographic keys needed to verify that your app is really yours. When you're ready to publish your app to the Google Play Store, you'll use your keystore file to sign your app, ensuring its authenticity and integrity. It's essential for updating your app and proving ownership.
Keep your keystore file safe and secure; if you lose it, you may have trouble updating your app in the future.
Alias An alias is like a nickname for your keystore. It's a way of referring to the specific set of cryptographic keys stored in your keystore file. Think of it as a shortcut name that you can use instead of the long, complex details of your keystore. When you sign your app, you'll specify which alias to use, allowing the system to find and use the correct keys from your keystore. It helps streamline the process and keeps your actual keystore details hidden. Just like your keystore file, keep your alias secure and well documented to ensure smooth app updates and maintenance.
Storepass The storepass, short for "store password", is like the key to your keystore lockbox. It's a password you set when you create your keystore file to protect it from unauthorised access. Just as you need a physical key to unlock a real lockbox, you need the storepass to unlock your keystore and access its cryptographic keys. When you sign your app or perform other actions with your keystore, you'll be prompted for this password. Keep your storepass strong and memorable, but also secure, because it's critical for managing your app's integrity and updates.
Keypass The keypass, or "key password", is like an extra layer of security specifically for the cryptographic keys in your keystore. While the storepass is the master key for the entire keystore, the keypass is like a secondary key that protects the individual keys (aliases) stored within it. When creating or managing keys within your keystore, you can set a separate password for each key for added security. This means that even if someone were to gain access to your keystore with the storepass, they would still need the keypass to use the individual keys stored within. It's another important aspect of protecting the authenticity of your app and ensuring that only authorised parties can sign and update your app.
Learn how to Create the keystore file, alias and passwords