How to publish Electron app to the app store?

Step 1: Preparation

Before publishing your Electron application to the app store, ensure it is fully developed and has passed internal testing, including functional, performance, and security testing. Additionally, the application must comply with the policies and requirements of the target app store.

Step 2: Choosing the Publishing Platform

Electron applications can be published to multiple platforms, including Windows Store, Mac App Store, and Linux distribution platforms. Selecting the appropriate platform based on the target user base is crucial.

Step 3: Packaging the Application

Packaging the application varies depending on the app store. For example:

• Mac App Store: Package the application as a .app using electron-packager or electron-builder, then sign it with electron-osx-sign. Additionally, use electron-notarize for Apple's official notarization.
• Windows Store: Use electron-windows-store to convert the application into a format supported by Windows Store (e.g., .appx).
• Linux: Package as .deb or .rpm depending on the target distribution. Use electron-installer-debian or electron-installer-redhat.

Step 4: Application Signing

Each app store requires the application to be signed by the developer to verify the publisher's identity and ensure the downloaded application has not been tampered with.

Step 5: Submitting for Review

Submitting the application to the app store typically involves filling out necessary information such as the app description, category, keywords, and uploading the application package along with multimedia assets like screenshots. After submission, the application enters the store's review process, awaiting inspection to ensure compliance with store standards.

Step 6: Monitoring Review Status and Addressing Feedback

After submission, monitor the review status. If the application is not approved, the app store will provide reasons, and developers must revise the application based on feedback and resubmit for review.

Step 7: Release and Promotion

Once the application is approved and listed, developers should promote it through various channels to attract users. Additionally, monitor user feedback to continuously improve the application.

Example

Suppose I developed an Electron application named "Accounting Treasure" and wish to publish it to the Mac App Store. First, I ensure it meets Apple's latest security and performance standards. Then, I package it as a .app using electron-packager and sign it with electron-osx-sign. To comply with Apple's requirements, I use electron-notarize for notarization. After packaging and signing, I upload the application to my Apple Developer account, fill out necessary information, and wait for review. If the review is not approved, I revise the application based on feedback.