So, I tried to build an Android app
14 hours ago
- Setting up a Google Play developer account involves submitting government ID, a utility bill, and a $25 fee, but new accounts risk automated suspension even after payment.
- New Google accounts can be suspended unexpectedly, forcing developers to use personal accounts with more history to avoid instant rejection.
- Google's closed beta testing requires joining a Google Group, clicking a separate link to become a tester, and waiting 1–48 hours for the app to appear, unlike Apple's simpler TestFlight system.
- Google Groups used for testing can be suspended without content or posts, further complicating the testing process.
- Since November 2023, new Play Store accounts must have at least 12 closed beta testers, wait 14 days, pass a quiz, and maintain testers throughout; older accounts are grandfathered in.
- The 12-tester requirement penalizes indie developers and encourages fake testers or buying accounts, rather than improving app quality.
- Complex installation steps cause users to abandon testing after initial attempts, leading to low engagement and frustration.
- The author's app was available on the App Store in 2–3 weeks but still not public on Google Play, discouraging future Android development.