Frequently asked questions about getting your apps into Google and Apple stores

Building an app is exciting, but getting it into the hands of real customers is where the real work begins. For most developers and companies, that means publishing on either the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store. These two platforms are where billions of users go to discover, download, and use apps every day. If you are a digital lender in Nigeria or anywhere across Africa, this step is even more important because your customers live on their smartphones.

Still, the process is rarely straightforward. With regulations, documentation, design requirements, and ongoing compliance to think about, it is normal to have plenty of questions. Below, we have answered some of the most common questions developers and lenders ask when preparing to publish their apps.

Why should I prioritize Play Store and App Store for my app?

In Africa, Android is the dominant operating system, with nearly 85% of market share in 2023. This makes the Google Play Store the natural first choice for anyone hoping to reach a large audience. On the other hand, Apple’s iOS holds a smaller share, but the users tend to be high-value, engaged, and more willing to spend on apps and services. Publishing on both platforms allows you to cover the widest possible market, ensuring that you do not miss out on any segment of potential users.

Do I need a developer account to publish my app?

Yes. Both Google and Apple require developers to set up an account before they can publish apps. For Google, this means opening a Google Play Developer account, which comes with a one-time registration fee. For Apple, you need to join the Apple Developer Program, which has an annual fee. If you are running a company, you should set up a company account rather than a personal one. This requires more documentation, but it also makes your app appear professional and credible. For Nigerian lenders, regulatory documents like an FCCPC license and a DUNS number are mandatory before you can even open the door to publishing.

What documents are required for Nigerian lending apps?

For Google Play, lenders must show that they are licensed by the FCCPC and that the license carries the name of the loan app. You also need a DUNS number and proof of company registration. If you are not a money lender but still fall under FCCPC regulation, you will need your Corporate Affairs Commission registration and a Central Bank of Nigeria license. Apple has similar requirements. To create a company developer account, you must be licensed, hold a DUNS number, and provide the FCCPC license tied to your app’s name. These requirements are not optional. They are part of a broader crackdown on unethical lending practices, and without them your app will be blocked from publishing.

What should I consider when choosing my app’s name?

Your app’s name is more than a label. It is the first thing users see when searching, and it influences whether they click to learn more. On Google Play, you are limited to 30 characters, while Apple allows up to 50. You should use this space wisely by including relevant keywords so that your app shows up when people search for lending services. A name like “QuickMoni Loans” will perform better than a vague one-word title. Just ensure the name matches your FCCPC license if you are a lender.

How important is the app description?

Very. You are competing with thousands of apps, so your description must do the heavy lifting of explaining why yours is worth downloading. Google gives you two slots: a short description of 80 characters and a full description of up to 4000 characters. Apple allows a description of up to 4000 characters as well. The short description should be clear and direct, while the full description should explain features, benefits, and credibility. Including keywords naturally in both increases your app’s visibility in search results.

What are the design requirements for icons and graphics?

Both platforms have strict requirements. For Google Play, your app icon must be a 512 by 512 pixel PNG, and your featured graphic should be 1024 by 500 pixels. Screenshots must be high-quality and properly cropped to show the app’s interface without clutter. For Apple, the icon needs to be 1024 by 1024 pixels and screenshots must match different iPhone and iPad screen sizes. These visuals are not just technical necessities. They act as marketing tools. Users often make decisions based on how professional and inviting the graphics look, so it is worth investing in strong design.

Do I need to provide a privacy policy?

Yes. Both Google and Apple require a clear privacy policy, especially if your app collects personal data, which lending apps almost always do. Your privacy policy must explain what information is collected, how it is used, and how users can control their data. For Google Play, you must also provide an attestation about the nature of your app. Without a valid privacy policy link, your app will be rejected.

What about interest rates and pricing for loan apps?

This is where it gets tricky for lenders. Google Play enforces a cap of 3% per month on interest rates for loan apps. Nigerian lenders know that the prime lending rate is much higher, which creates a difficult environment. To stay profitable, many lenders add service fees and other charges while staying within the stated rules. Apple has not specified such a cap, but apps must still comply with local financial regulations. If you plan to publish in Nigeria, your rates and fees must align with FCCPC standards, or you risk removal.

How long does the review process take?

Neither store approves apps instantly. Google’s review process can take a few days to a week, depending on the complexity of your app and whether any issues arise. Apple’s process tends to be stricter and may take longer, sometimes up to two weeks. If your app is flagged for further review, expect delays. This is why it is important to prepare all documentation and ensure your app meets every guideline before submission.

What happens if my app is rejected?

Rejection is not the end of the road, but it is frustrating. Both stores provide a reason for rejection, which may relate to technical errors, missing documentation, misleading information, or violations of policy. Once you fix the identified issues, you can resubmit your app. The key is to carefully review the rejection notes, because repeated violations can result in your developer account being suspended. For lenders, non-compliance with interest rate rules or FCCPC licensing requirements is one of the most common reasons for rejection.

Can I limit where my app is available?

Yes, but it is usually not advisable. Both Google and Apple let you decide which countries can access your app. By default, your app is available worldwide, but you can restrict it if you want to target only specific markets. For lenders, however, limiting access might cut you off from potential users who travel or live abroad. A broader approach usually makes more sense unless regulations force you to stay local.

Should I include a promotional video?

It is optional, but highly recommended. Google Play allows you to embed a YouTube link, and Apple lets you upload a 15 to 30 second preview video. These videos act as trailers for your app, showing off its interface, speed, and features. For a loan app, a video can explain how to apply, how fast disbursements happen, and what repayment options look like. This visual guide often convinces users more effectively than text descriptions.

What fees are involved in publishing?

For Google Play, you pay a one-time registration fee of $25 to open a developer account. After that, there are no annual charges, although Google takes a percentage of any in-app purchases or revenue generated. Apple, on the other hand, charges $99 annually for its Developer Program. This means you will need to renew your membership every year to keep your app active on the App Store.

Once my app is live, am I done?

Not quite. Publishing your app is only the beginning. Both stores expect developers to maintain and update their apps regularly. Bugs must be fixed quickly, new operating system requirements must be met, and compliance rules must be updated. Users also leave reviews, and those reviews influence your app’s ranking and credibility. Staying responsive to feedback and continuously improving your app is what keeps it visible and attractive.

Related read: Boosting your lending app rating on Google and Apple app stores

Bringing it all together

Getting your app into Google Play Store or Apple App Store takes effort, documentation, and patience. For lenders in Nigeria, it comes with even more layers of regulation, but the payoff is worth it. These stores are where your future users are. Meeting the requirements, investing in strong presentation, and staying compliant will give your app the best chance of being approved and thriving once it is live. For more information, send us a message at [email protected].