How to Set Up a Google Play Closed Testing Track (Step by Step)

A click-by-click walkthrough for setting up your first Google Play closed testing track. Assumes you already have a verified Play Console account and a signed AAB.

1. Create the app shell

Play Console → Create app → pick name, language, free/paid, declarations. You don't need every detail filled in to start a closed track.

2. Open the closed testing track

Left nav → Testing → Closed testing → Create track. Name it something obvious like “alpha”. Default settings are fine.

3. Upload your bundle

Track page → Releases → Create new release → upload AAB. Add release notes (testers see these). Save → Review release.

4. Add testers

Easiest option: Email list. Paste a comma-separated list of Google emails. Alternative: Google Group if you want self-service join, or opt-in URL for sharing publicly.

5. Get the testing URL

Manage testers → copy the opt-in URL. Share with your testers. They click, accept, install via Play.

6. Submit for review

Roll out to closed testing. Google reviews the first release on any new track. Usually a few hours, occasionally up to 3 days. Until review completes, testers see “not available”.