Is it mandatory to upload aab(Android App Bundle) instead of APK file

Question

In the recent try for uploading a new version of apk for existing application to PlayStore, threw an warning message as mentioned below

1. So the question is, is it mandatory to upload only aab files to PlayStore or normal apk file can also be updated.

2. If aab file has to be uploaded, then how to sign the aab file before uploading.

I referred this Link for Goolge App signing. Is this also required ?

Note:

The application developed is a cordova application. So if the above mentioned things are mandatory is the procedure different to build for cordova application ?

Thanks in advance !

Answer 1

"Important: In the second half of 2021, new apps will be required to publish with the Android App Bundle on Google Play. New apps larger than 150 MB must use either Play Feature Delivery or Play Asset Delivery".

Taken from

https://developer.android.com/guide/app-bundle

Answer 2

1. So the question is, is it mandatory to upload only aab files to PlayStore or normal apk file can also be updated

Normal APK can also be uploaded / updated. This is just a warning and not an error message. Google Play will still allow you to continue

2. If aab file has to be uploaded, then how to sign the aab file before uploading.

In Android Studio, when building signed APK / AAB, it will ask you to export an encrypted key. Take note of the location because you will use this exported key when you upload your AAB. See highlighted in yellow

I referred this Link for Goolge App signing. Is this also required ?

Nope, it's optional. Quoting Google Play Support: Using app signing by Google Play is optional. You can still upload an APK and manage your own keys instead of using an app bundle. However, if you lose your keystore or it becomes compromised, you won’t be able to update your app without publishing a new app with a new package name. https://support.google.com/googleplay/android-developer/answer/7384423