New Testing Requirements for Google Play Developer (Nov.2023)

Key Information

• Effective Date: November 13, 2023
• Target Audience: Developers with personal accounts on Google Play
• Personal accounts must meet specific testing requirements before publishing apps

In a bid to enhance app quality and user experience, Google Play is implementing updated requirements for developers with newly created personal accounts post-November 13, 2023. These changes mandate rigorous testing before App Publication, ensuring a refined user-ready product.

>>> Google Play: App testing requirements for new personal developer accounts

Mandatory Testing

Developers must conduct comprehensive tests before app release, fostering higher-quality experiences on Google Play. Certain features in Play Console will be disabled until these new requirements are met.

Newly created personal developer accounts must conduct a closed test with a minimum of 20 testers opted in for at least 14 consecutive days. Upon meeting these criteria, developers can apply for production access on Play Console's Dashboard, facilitating the app's distribution on Google Play.

Different Testing Tracks and Requirements

 

Internal Testing

• Quick distribution to trusted testers for early feedback.
• Recommended for initial app setup.

Closed Testing

• Distribution to a controlled user group for issue identification.
• Mandatory before applying for production access.

Open Testing

• Visibility on Google Play for user feedback.
• Available with production access.

Production

• App available to billions of users on Google Play.
• Requires a prior closed test meeting specified criteria.

Closed Testing Guidelines

• Recruiting Testers: Diverse recruitment strategies for effective bug identification.
• Engaging with Testers: Providing clear instructions and feedback channels.
• Gathering and Viewing Feedback: Accessing user feedback within Play Console.
• Acting on User Feedback: Addressing bugs promptly for enhanced user experience.

Advanced Testing:

• Exploring advanced testing techniques for optimal app quality.
• Leveraging Play Console features for proactive issue identification.

>>> How to Improve User Experience and Conversion with Usablity Testing?

Google's move is aimed at ensuring that every app in the app store has undergone thorough testing to ensure a positive user experience.

However, the mandatory testing requirement of "20 people + 14 days" implies a significant increase in the onboarding cost for new developers compared to experienced developers.

Since old accounts are non-renewable resources, their value has correspondingly increased.