Who this is for
You want a simple, useful app (timers, habits, wellness, utilities) in the stores fast. You’re okay using a template and focusing on branding, setup, and launch—not custom features.
What you’ll need (before Day 1)
- Apple Developer account (Individual or Company).
- Google Play Console account.
- Brand basics: app name ideas (2–3), color, a rough icon concept.
- Payment choice: subscription, one-time IAP, or ads.
- 1–2 hours per day for a week (or 1–2 long sessions).
Day 1 — Pick a template & define scope
- Choose a template that matches an outcome (e.g., Timer & Focus, Habit & Streaks, Water Minder). See Templates.
- Write a one-sentence promise: “Track water intake with reminders and daily goals.”
- Decide platform(s): iOS, Android, or both.
Day 2 — Brand it
- Pick a final name (check App Store / Play duplicates and obvious trademarks).
- Create an icon (1024×1024) and a simple color palette.
- Draft app short description (80–100 chars) and long description (400–700 words) with 3–5 keyword phrases.
Day 3 — Configure the app
- Set bundle IDs, app version, display name.
- Update in-app copy (labels, empty-state text, menu items).
- Turn on basic features you’ll ship in v1; defer the rest.
Day 4 — Monetization & analytics
- Choose monetization:
- Subscription (recommended for ongoing value).
- One-time IAP (simple unlock).
- Ads (for free utility/wellness apps).
- Create products/price in App Store Connect and Google Play.
- Add analytics (events for first open, paywall view, purchase).
Day 5 — Store assets & ASO
- Make 6–8 screenshots (portrait) showing outcome → feature → social proof.
- Write subtitle/keywords (iOS) and short/long descriptions (Android).
- Prepare a simple privacy policy & support email address.
Day 6 — Test builds
- Build to TestFlight (iOS) and Internal testing (Android).
- Test: onboarding, reminders/notifications, purchases, restore purchases, offline behavior.
- Fix copy/typos and obvious bugs only (no new features).
Day 7 — Submit
- Fill store listings, upload screenshots and icon.
- Attach privacy policy URL, age rating, review notes.
- Submit for review on both stores.
Days 8–14 — Review & go-live
- Typical review: 1–3 days (can be longer). Respond quickly to reviewer questions.
- After approval: release in limited countries first (optional), monitor crashes and reviews.
- Ship a small v1.0.1 update within a week (bug fixes, better screenshots/copy).
Launch checklist (quick copy/paste)
- Apple & Google dev accounts active
- Template chosen and branded
- Icon 1024×1024 + color palette
- Short & long descriptions with keywords
- Monetization configured (IAP/subs/ads)
- Privacy policy URL + support email
- 6–8 screenshots (portrait)
- TestFlight + Internal test passed
- Submitted to both stores
What to ship next (weeks 2–4)
- One small feature that increases retention (e.g., streaks, themes, reminders).
- Better paywall copy and a yearly plan test.
- Support page with simple FAQs and contact form.
Next step: Pick your template or browse all Playbooks. Questions? See the FAQ.