How to Transfer an App Between Developer Accounts

This guide will walk you through the process of transferring an app between developer accounts on the App Store and Google Play Store

Transferring an app between developer accounts on the App Store and Google Play Store involves several steps to ensure that the app's data, users, and functionality remain intact. This guide will walk you through the process for both platforms.

Apple App Store (iOS)

Prerequisites:

  1. Both Accounts Active: Ensure both the source and destination Apple Developer Program accounts are active.
  2. App Requirements: The app must meet certain criteria, such as having at least one approved version and no pending agreements or app reviews.

Steps to Transfer an App:

  1. Sign in to App Store Connect: Log in to App Store Connect with the Apple ID associated with the source account.

  2. Select the App: Go to the "My Apps" section and select the app you want to transfer.

  3. Initiate the Transfer:

    • Click on the app’s information page.
    • In the "App Information" section, click the "Transfer App" button.
    • Review the transfer requirements and click "Continue."
    • Enter the new Apple Developer Program Team ID of the destination account and click "Continue."
  4. Agree to Terms:

    • Review the terms and conditions and click "Continue."
    • Confirm the transfer by clicking "Request Transfer."
  5. Accept the Transfer:

    • The recipient will receive an email notification about the transfer.
    • The recipient needs to log in to App Store Connect, go to the "Agreements, Tax, and Banking" section, and accept the transfer.

After the Transfer:

  • The app remains available on the App Store throughout the transfer process.
  • Users retain access to app updates, in-app purchases, and other functionalities.

Google Play Store (Android)

Prerequisites:

  1. Both Accounts Active: Ensure both the source and destination Google Play Developer accounts are active and in good standing.
  2. App Requirements: The app must comply with Google Play policies, and you should have access to the original app signing key.

Steps to Transfer an App:

  1. Sign in to Google Play Console: Log in to the Google Play Console with the account that currently owns the app.

  2. Initiate the Transfer:

    • Go to the "Settings" section and click "Account details."
    • In the "Transfer your app(s)" section, click "Learn more" and follow the instructions.
  3. Fill Out the Transfer Form:

    • Complete the transfer request form, providing details such as the package name of the app, the reason for the transfer, and the new account owner’s email address.
  4. Submit the Transfer Request:

    • Google will review your request and may contact you for additional information.
    • Both the source and destination accounts will receive an email confirmation when the transfer is approved.
  5. Provide Access to the New Owner:

    • Ensure the new owner has access to any necessary resources, such as API keys, databases, and app signing keys.

After the Transfer:

  • The app remains available on Google Play throughout the transfer process.
  • Users retain access to app updates, in-app purchases, and other functionalities.

Following these steps will help ensure a smooth transfer of your app between developer accounts on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. If you encounter any issues, consult the official Apple and Google documentation.