Where Your Converted App Can Be Distributed

Once your web application is converted into native mobile app binaries, the next question is: *Where can you distribute your app so target users can install and use it?*

Because Craft2Native focuses on standard, store-compliant build formats on day one, you have multiple distribution pathways across public app stores, direct web downloads, and private enterprise networks.

This guide outlines where your converted app can be distributed and what each distribution channel entails.

1. Primary Store Channel: The Google Play Store

The Google Play Store is the world's largest mobile software marketplace, reaching over 3 billion active Android devices globally.

[ Your Converted Web App ]
         |
         v
[ Craft2Native Compiler ] ---> Generates Signed .AAB File
         |
         v
[ Google Play Console ]   ---> Automated Review ---> Published on Google Play Store

Key Requirements for Play Store Distribution: - **Binary Format:** Google Play requires the **Android App Bundle (.aab)** format, which Craft2Native compiles automatically. - **Developer Account:** You must publish under your own Google Play Developer Account ($25 one-time registration fee). - **Store Listing Assets:** High-res app icons (512x512), feature graphics (1024x500), phone screenshots, and a valid privacy policy link.

Publishing on Google Play gives your app global search indexing, automatic background updates, and instant brand credibility.

2. Direct Web APK Downloads & Side-Loading

Unlike restrictive closed mobile ecosystems, Android supports direct installation of APK (Android Package) files from websites, emails, or internal servers.

When Direct APK Distribution Makes Sense: - **Beta Testing & QA:** Send test APK binaries to team members or select beta users before publishing to the Play Store. - **Private Enterprise / Internal Staff Apps:** Distribute employee portals, sales tools, or field management apps directly via your company intranet. - **Regional Marketplaces & Alternative Stores:** Upload your APK to alternative app stores (such as Samsung Galaxy Store, Amazon Appstore, or Huawei AppGallery).

3. Future Scope: iOS App Store Distribution

At day-one launch, Craft2Native specializes strictly in Android-first compilation (.apk and .aab output).

• Why Android First? Android accounts for over 70% of global mobile OS market share, allows rapid developer key signing, and offers seamless side-loading for testing.
• Future iOS Expansion: Dedicated iOS compilation (.ipa files for the Apple App Store) is currently in development for a follow-up platform update.

To Be Confirmed at Launch: Specific availability dates for iOS packaging will be announced to early registrants as development progresses.

Distribution Channel Comparison

Summary & Next Steps

With Craft2Native, your converted app can be published on the Google Play Store or shared directly with users via APK downloads.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I distribute my compiled APK directly on my website? Yes. You can host your signed APK file on your web server for direct download and sideloading by internal users or beta testers.

What is the difference between an APK and an AAB file? APK files are directly installable Android packages used for testing, while AAB (Android App Bundle) is Google Play's required format that optimizes installation sizes for specific user devices.

Can I publish my converted app to alternative Android app stores? Yes. Your signed APK binary can be submitted to alternative Android app marketplaces such as Amazon Appstore and Samsung Galaxy Store.

Want to learn how Craft2Native positioning compares to traditional wrappers? Read our breakdown on where Craft2Native fits compared to other app builders, or register your interest on our landing page.