Xamarin Google Play Store and Apple App Store Submission

Making an app is just half the job done, as the mobile app marketplaces are crowded with millions of apps. Developers must submit their Xamarin apps to the respective app stores to make it available to their target audience. Let's discuss the Xamarin Google Play Store and Apple App Store Submission process.

Submission Process

Google Play Store

1. Google Play Console Account: Firstly, create a Google Play Console developer account and provide details like the developer name and payment details.

2. APK File: Create an APK (Android Package Kit) file of the Xamarin app. An APK package contains all the necessary files for an Android app's installation.

3. Pricing and Distribution: Decide on pricing, distribution, and other settings, such as countries where the app should be available.

4. Listing: Provide information such as the app name, description, screenshots, and feature graphics to showcase the app in-detail before submitting.

5. Content Rating: Google provides a content rating questionnaire that needs to be filled up before submission to ensure the app is suitable for all audiences.

6. Release: Once the listing is complete, choose to release the app to beta or production channels.

7. Submit for Review: After meeting all guidelines and making sure there are no policy violations, submit the app in the Google Play Console. On approval, it will be available to download from the Google Play Store.

Apple App Store

1. Apple Developer Account: Firstly, create an Apple Developer Account using an Apple ID and paying the yearly fee.

2. Xcode Project: Create an Xcode project of the Xamarin app. The app must be configured as per Apple's specific requirements.

3. App Distribution and Pricing: Choose the type of distribution, pricing, and territories where the app will be available.

4. App Information: Provide details such as app name, description, screenshots, and keywords to optimize the app's visibility.

5. App Review: Before submission, the app must undergo detailed app review to meet Apple's guidelines. It's essential to check all design elements, features, and functional aspects of the app before submitting.

6. Submit for Review: After meeting all guidelines, the app can be submitted to the app store. The app must pass the review process to be available for download from the Apple App Store.

Important Points

• It's vital to ensure compliance with Google and Apple's guidelines regarding content, functionality, and other policies.

• The app's name, description, and screenshots should be appropriately optimized to increase visibility.

• Before submitting, thoroughly testing the app on a variety of devices and platforms is necessary to ensure that it functions correctly.

• Keep in mind that both Google Play Store and Apple App Store take a percentage of each app purchase. The percentage may vary based on factors such as subscription model, distribution method, and region.

Summary

Submitting a Xamarin app to the app stores involves creating a developer account, creating an Xcode project, configuring the app per the platform's guidelines, optimizing app details, undergoing app review, and submitting the app for approval and publication. Developers must follow the guidelines provided by the respective store and focus on optimizing all the aspects of the app to ensure maximum visibility.