Developing a mobile app can be an uphill task, from ideation to design, development, testing, and deployment. Making it stand out in the crowd requires innovative ideas, attractive user interfaces and functionalities, intuitive navigation, and engaging content.
However, these steps are only half the work, because if you want Android users to be able to find it, you’re going to need to make sure it’s listed on the Google Play Store, and getting your app approved by the Google Play Store is a challenge unto itself.
The Google Play Store had over 3.55 million apps listed on the platform during the third quarter of 2022, up by 1.3% compared to the previous quarter. The number continues to grow as almost every business realizes the need for a thriving mobile presence.
Considering the growth of mobile apps, it might seem like obtaining approval is easy. However, you may encounter several hurdles along the way. Copyright infringement concerns, compliance with functionality policies, and potential security vulnerabilities could stand in the way.
In this article, we will share a few best practices to mitigate these challenges and make the Google Play Store approval process a breeze for your app.
Steer Clear of Copyright Infringement
Copyright infringement is a widespread issue in the business world, and it can apply to mobile apps as well. Since a mobile app is a work of authorship, they are covered by intellectual property rights. However, avoiding a lawsuit isn’t the only reason to steer clear of copyright infringement. Your app may face rejection on the Google Play Store if it has copied content.
You can avoid this by ensuring that all content, including text, images, and multimedia, is original or properly licensed. Thoroughly research and seek permission for any third-party content you plan to include. Additionally, it might be a good idea to speak with an expert to obtain detailed guidelines on avoiding copyright infringement issues. Following them could save your app from being rejected for copyright violations.
Comply With the Broken Functionality Policy
Another best practice to get your app through to the Google Play Store is ensuring compliance with the broken functionality policy. Play Store has strict policies regarding functionality, specifically when it comes to crashing, freezing, and force-closing. Also, expect rejection if your app has broken features, such as non-functional buttons or links.
Remember to double-check for such features by thoroughly testing your app across different devices and Android versions. Additionally, address any issues on the fly to ensure that your app is flawless before submitting it for review and Google Play Store approval. A little extra effort here will significantly increase the likelihood of approval.
Get the Metadata Right
A great app is not just about offering an excellent user experience. Metadata plays a crucial role in its discoverability on the Google Play Store. It includes key elements such as the app title, description, keywords, and screenshots. Each of these metadata elements should accurately reflect the features and functionality of your app.
Create clear and concise descriptions highlighting your app’s unique selling points. Similarly, relevant keywords make the app easy to discover in the crowded app landscape. However, avoid keyword stuffing and making bombastic, inaccurate claims in your copy, because it can lead to rejection. Additionally, ensure that your screenshots depict its user interface and features.
Watch Out for Malware in the App Code
One recent study found that 81% of mobile apps are vulnerable to cyberattacks, including those that can involve injecting malicious code. That’s why Google Play requires that all apps adhere to stringent security standards. Before submitting your app, scan its code thoroughly to ensure it is clear of any potential malware or security vulnerabilities.
Google’s support pages provide actionable guidelines for developers to help with detecting and removing malware from apps during the development stages. You can also make sure to only use reliable development tools and libraries to curb the risk of inadvertently including malware in your app’s code.
Don’t Forget to Include a Privacy Policy
Privacy is a significant concern for app users, considering the growing threat of data theft. It is also paramount for the Google Play Store, which is why the platform requires that all apps publish a privacy policy. Essentially, this policy outlines how your app collects, stores, and uses user data. Not including it can lead to rejection or removal.
Also, ensure your privacy policy is easily accessible to users within the app or through a link in the Play Store’s listing. Practice transparency about the data types your app collects and how it is used. Prioritize compliance with relevant privacy laws and regulations.
Maximize Your Chances
In conclusion, obtaining approval for your app from the Google Play Store is not just about developing a compelling product. You must pay attention to detail and adhere to the policies and guidelines of the platform to get it through. These best practices give your app a head start and increase its chances of a successful launch.
