This guide explains how to remove your branded app from both Google Play and Apple App Store. Remember, you can't truly "delete" an app once published, but you can make it unavailable to new users.
Before You Begin:
- Ensure you have access to the developer accounts associated with both app stores.
- Removing the app won't affect existing users who already downloaded it. They can still access and use the app, and will receive updates if you release them.
Google Play:
- Log in to your Google Play Console: https://play.google.com/console/developers
- Select the app you want to remove from the "All Apps" list.
- Click on "Release" in the left menu.
- Under "Setup", choose "Advanced settings".
- Find "App Availability" and select "Unpublished".
- Click "Save" to confirm.
Apple App Store:
- Log in to App Store Connect: https://appstoreconnect.apple.com
- Go to "My Apps" and select the app you want to remove.
- Click on "Pricing and Availability" in the left menu.
- Under "Availability", choose "Remove from Sale".
- Click "Save" to confirm.
- Once removed from sale, go back to "My Apps".
- Select the app again and scroll down to "App Information".
- Click "Remove App" under "Additional Information" and confirm.
Remember:
- Unpublishing on Google Play only prevents new downloads. Existing users can still keep the app. To fully delete the app, contact Google Play developer support. They may be able to help you delete the app listing entirely, but this process is usually more complex and requires specific reasons.
- On Apple App Store, you need to "Remove from Sale" before fully deleting.
- Removing the app won't delete user data associated with it.
Additional Notes:
- Unpublishing/removing from sale might take some time to reflect on the stores.
- Consider notifying users about the app's removal beforehand.
- If you encounter issues, contact Google Play or Apple App Store support for assistance.