On November 13, Google Play announced a significant update to its policy, titled "App Testing Requirements for New Individual Developer Accounts." This change is a strategic move by Google to enhance the quality of apps on its platform. Newly registered individual developer accounts are now required to engage in a mandatory closed beta testing phase, which involves a minimum of 20 testers actively participating for at least 14 days before their apps are eligible for public release.
The new policy delineates a structured approach to app testing:
Internal testing: Before you've finished setting up your app, you can quickly distribute builds to a small group of your own trusted testers. This can help you to identify issues and get early feedback. Builds are normally available to testers within seconds of being added in Play Console. Internal testing is optional, but we recommend that you start here.
Closed testing: With closed testing, you can share your app with a wide group of users that you control. This allows you to fix issues and ensure that your app complies with Google Play policy before you launch. You must run a closed test before you can apply to publish your app to production. At least 20 testers must be opted-in to your closed test when you apply for production access. They must have been opted-in for the last 14 days continuously. You can start a closed test once you're finished setting up your app.
Open testing: Allows you to surface your app's test version on Google Play. If you run an open test, anyone can join your testing program and submit private feedback to you. Before choosing this option, make sure your app and store listing is ready to be visible on Google Play. Open testing is available when you have production access.
Production: Where you make your app available to billions of users on Google Play. Before you can apply to publish your app to production, you need to run a closed test which meets our criteria. When you apply, you'll also need to answer some questions about your closed test. When you apply for production access, at least 20 testers must be opted-in to your closed test. They must have been opted-in for the last 14 days continuously.
Google Play provides extensive guidance to facilitate effective closed beta testing:
Recruitment of Testers: Developers are encouraged to harness their personal and professional networks, including social media and community groups, to recruit a diverse pool of testers.
Engagement with Testers: Clear communication is key. Developers should provide testers with detailed instructions for app usage, bug reporting, and feedback mechanisms.
Developers who have fulfilled the closed beta testing criteria can proceed to request official release access. This involves a review process where developers must provide insights into their closed testing practices and demonstrate their app's readiness for public distribution.
Google's policy is designed to elevate the user experience by ensuring apps are thoroughly vetted before release. While this may increase the initial efforts and costs for new developers, it also adds value to existing developer accounts by upholding a standard of quality.
This policy underscores the criticality of comprehensive app testing and has the potential to reshape the landscape for new developers on Google Play. It signals a move away from more lenient practices and underscores the necessity for developers to meticulously adhere to the new requirements to achieve compliance and to successfully debut their apps on the global stage.
In summary, Google's revised policy is a testament to their commitment to quality and user satisfaction. It presents both a challenge and an opportunity for new developers to prove their dedication to creating exceptional apps that stand the test of rigorous evaluation.
Reference: App testing requirements for new personal developer accounts
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