FAQs

1. Do I need to create my own Apple and Google Developer accounts to publish the app?

Yes, both Apple and Google require that apps be submitted through the respective owner’s developer account. You must create:

• An Apple Developer Account for iOS apps

• A Google Play Console Account for Android apps

? Note: If your developer account request is still under review, Shopymate (or your app development partner) can temporarily publish the app under their own developer account. Once your account is approved, the app can be transferred to your developer account.

2. How long does it take for the apps to go live on both platforms?

• Apple App Store: 3–5 business days for app review and approval

• Google Play Store: 5–7 business days for app review and approval

? Note: It may take 24–48 hours after approval for your app to appear in store search results due to indexing delays.

3. How can I create my Apple Developer Account?

You can create your account via the Apple Developer Program portal. We highly recommend registering as an Organization, as Apple does not allow third-party developers to manage app submissions under an Individual account.

▶️ Learn how to create an Apple Developer Organizational Account

4. How can I create my Google Play Console account?

To create a Google Developer account, sign up through the Play Console. You will need a Google account and pay a one-time registration fee of $25.

▶️ Create your Google Play Developer Account

5. Do I need any other accounts for mobile app development?

Yes. To support essential features like Push Notifications, you’ll also need to create a Google Firebase Console account.

• Required for Android push notifications

• Must enable Google Cloud Messaging API

• Once setup is complete, invite your developer with admin access

? Send Firebase console invitation to: mobile@shopymate.com

6. Where do I send invitations after setting up developer accounts?

Please send admin-level invitations to:

? mobile@shopymate.com

This applies to:

• Apple Developer account (via App Store Connect)

• Google Play Console account

• Firebase Console

7. What details are required to publish the app on iOS and Android stores?

To launch your app on the App Store and Play Store, prepare the following:

? App Assets

• App Name – Mandatory

• App Subtitle (iOS) – Mandatory

• App Description – Mandatory

• App Icon – 1024x1024px – Mandatory

• Splash Screen / Launch Screen – 1024x1024px – Mandatory

• Loading Screen Image – 1024x1024px – Mandatory

• Play Store Banner Image – 1024x1024px – Mandatory

• Notification Icon (Android) – 96x96px – Mandatory

? App Store Info

• Primary Category – Mandatory

• Secondary Category – Mandatory

• Search Keywords (iOS) – Mandatory

• Marketing URL – Optional

• Support URL – Optional

• Privacy Policy URL – Optional

? Contact Information

• First Name

• Last Name

• Contact Number

• Email Address – Mandatory

8. Can I test my app before it's published?

Yes, Shopymate provides an app preview option where you can view your app on your mobile device before it goes live.

• iOS: Through TestFlight

• Android: Via internal testing track or using APK builds

This helps you identify design issues, broken links, and missing assets before official submission.

9. Can I update my app after it goes live?

Absolutely. You can:

• Submit design updates

• Add new features

• Push bug fixes

Each update must go through the App Store or Play Store’s review process again. The turnaround time is usually faster for updates than for the initial release.

10. Can I change my developer account later?

Yes. If the app was originally published using a third-party account (e.g., your developer’s), it can later be transferred to your personal or organizational account.

• Apple uses App Transfer in App Store Connect

• Google offers App transfer via Play Console

? Transfers preserve app reviews, ratings, users, and downloads.

11. Do I need a Privacy Policy for my app?

Yes. Both Apple and Google require a publicly accessible Privacy Policy URL even if you’re not collecting user data. The policy should outline:

• What data you collect

• How it's stored and used

• Contact details for privacy inquiries

You can host it on your store’s website.

12. What costs are involved in publishing an app?

? Platform Fees:

• Apple Developer Program: $99/year

• Google Play Console: $25 (one-time)

Additional costs may apply for:

• Custom integrations

• Push notification setup (Firebase)

• Ongoing maintenance or updates

13. Who handles the app submission process?

Your developer or app provider (like Shopymate) typically handles:

• Building and testing the app

• Preparing store listings

• Submitting the app for review

• Responding to store feedback

All you need to do is:

1. Create and share the required accounts

2. Submit app assets and required information

3. Approve the final review

14. Can I use the same developer accounts for multiple apps?

Yes. Both Apple and Google developer accounts allow you to publish multiple apps under the same account — great for managing different stores or product lines under one brand umbrella.

15. Is support available during app submission?

Yes. Shopymate or your development partner typically provides:

• Onboarding support

• Live chat/email assistance

• Dedicated project managers

• Assistance with design, submission, compliance, and troubleshooting

Final Thoughts

Launching a mobile app for your store is a game-changer — but it comes with technical steps that can be confusing at first. This FAQ guide serves as a one-stop resource for everything from developer account creation to submission timelines and app asset preparation.

If you’re stuck at any step or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to your developer support team or email:

? mobile@hulkapps.com