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Closed Testing for Android TV and Google TV Apps

Run the 12-tester closed test for an Android TV app: TV manifest requirements, App Bundles, target API 34, TV screenshots and finding testers.

Updated 3 min readBy the TestersZone team

Short answer

TV apps follow the same 12-tester, 14-day rule, but testers need an Android TV or Google TV device (TV, streaming stick or box). Your app must declare TV support in the manifest (leanback launcher, banner, no touchscreen requirement), ship as an App Bundle, and target API 34+.

Technical requirements

  • App Bundle: Google says new and existing TV apps have had to be published as App Bundles since June 2023.
  • Target API: since August 31, 2026, Android TV apps must target API 34 or higher (Google’s target SDK page).
  • Manifest: declare the leanback launcher intent filter, provide a TV banner, and mark touchscreen as not required. Without these, the app may not be eligible for TV.
  • Form factor: add Android TV in Play Console and upload TV screenshots.

Google reviews TV apps against its TV app quality guidelines: D-pad navigation, no dead ends, readable text from the sofa.

Testers need TV hardware

  • Google TV streamers and Android TV boxes are fairly common, so ask around first.
  • Ask testers to say which device and Android TV version they use. Remote controls and performance vary.
  • Recruit 15-20, because TV owners test less often than phone owners.

Tasks for TV testers

  1. Find and open the app from the TV home screen.
  2. Navigate every screen using only the remote (no touch, no mouse).
  3. Play content for 15+ minutes and report stutter or audio sync issues.
  4. Press Back from every screen. Does it ever get stuck?

Installing a TV test build

Testers opt in from a phone or computer with the same Google account as their TV, then install on the TV from its Play Store (search may not show closed apps, so use the “install to device” option on the web listing or look under apps for the account). See why closed apps don’t appear in search.

Related: Wear OS closed testing.

Frequently asked questions

Can I test a TV app on the Android TV emulator?

Yes, during development. Real TV devices show performance, remote and playback issues the emulator hides.

Does my TV app need a phone version?

No. A TV-only app is fine if it meets TV requirements. If you have both, they can share a listing.

What screenshot sizes does TV need?

Google asks for TV screenshots in landscape. Check Play Console’s current asset requirements for TV when you add the form factor.

Sources and how we keep this accurate

Policy facts are checked against Google's own documentation on the date shown above. Google can change requirements at any time, so confirm in your Play Console. Where we give advice or estimates rather than Google's rules, we say so. TestersZone is independent and not affiliated with Google. Drafts are AI-assisted and reviewed by our team.

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