Setup a native app

Preview Apps and Release Apps

4min

Summary

In Purple Manager, you have the option to build your Purple App as a preview version and as a release version. This article explains the difference and what each version is used for.

Build App dialogue in Purple Manager
Build App Dialogue in Purple Manager


Explanation

Use case

  • Release App: The main difference is that the release version of the app (live app) is the one you upload to the Apple and Google App Stores.
  • Preview App: A preview app offers the full functionality of a live app, including push notifications. A popup is shown indicating that this is a preview app every time you open the app. Preview Apps can be downloaded via the Purple Manager to your device.

Certifications

There are also differences in certification requirements:

  • Test/Preview App Android: No certificates required. iOS: You need Test certificates for iOS. Also, the mobile Provisioning needs to have all test devices UDIDS included (also from testers in the newsroom). Otherwise, it is not downloadable, and you can't test the iOS Apps for testing individual push notifications or analytics settings.
  • Release App Android: Certificates required. iOS: Certificates required.

Please note: Both Android and iOS developer accounts must be linked to the Purple Manager account, if you want to enable/test in-app purchases, regardless of whether you want to use them in a Preview App or a Release App.