Register the Google Play Developer account
1 hr to sign up, 24-48 hr for ID verification
Initial Closed Testing track submission. Pre-launch report runs ~3-6 hr.
Pre-launch report clean. Promoted to Production. Staged rollout 10%.
Create the app and upload your first AAB
1 hr
Run the 14-day closed test (personal accounts only)
14 days minimum, plan for 18-21
Staged rollout to 50% after no crash spike for 72 hr.
Write the store listing (title, descriptions, graphics)
3-5 hr to draft, 1-2 hr to refine
Fill out the Data Safety form accurately
4-8 hr (most of it auditing what your app + every SDK actually sends)
Hit the Target API level requirement
1-3 hr if you're already current, 1-3 days if you're catching up multiple years
Set up content rating, ads declaration, and target audience
1-2 hr
Configure pricing, billing, and in-app purchases
2-4 hr
Submit for review and ship to production
1 hr to submit, 1-7 days waiting, repeat on rejection
Post-launch: ratings, crashes, vitals, and update cadence
Ongoing, 5-10 hr/week for the first month