google-play-servicesdeveloper-console

How to unpublish an app in Google Play Developer Console


I've seen other posts asking the same question with answers that all refer to a giant button that says "Unpublish" on it, which is no longer there (at least as of 2016).

How do you really unpublish an app that is uploaded to the Google Play Developer Console?


Solution

  • TL;DR: (As of September 2020) Open the Play Console. Select an app. Select Release > Setup >Advanced settings. On the App Availability tab, select Unpublish.

    Setup - Advanced settings Unpublish app dialog Verify app unpublished

    From https://support.google.com/googleplay/android-developer/answer/9859350?hl=en&ref_topic=9872026:

    When you unpublish an app, existing users can still use your app and receive app updates. Your app won’t be available for new users to find and download on Google Play.

    Prerequisites

    • You have accepted the latest Developer Distribution Agreement.
    • Your app has no errors that need to be addressed, such as failing to fill in the content rating questionnaire or provide details about your app's target audience and content.
    • Managed publishing is not active for the app you want to unpublish.

    To unpublish your app:

    Open the Play Console. Select an app. Select Release > Setup > Advanced settings. On the App Availability tab, select Unpublish.

    How to Disable Managed publishing

    Managed publishing overview Managed publishing toggle dialog