Creating a Keystore and Signing the AAB
Generate a release keystore with keytool, configure gradle.properties and build.gradle with the signing config, and build a signed Android App Bundle with EAS Build.
Why Android Signing Matters
Every Android app must be digitally signed with a private key before it can be installed or distributed. The signature is embedded in the APK or AAB file and verifies that all future updates to the app come from the same developer. If you lose your keystore, you can never issue an update to that app — you would have to publish an entirely new app with a different package name. Back up your keystore file securely.
What Is a Keystore File
A keystore is a binary file (typically .jks or .keystore) that stores one or more cryptographic key pairs. It is protected by two passwords: a store password (protects the file) and a key password (protects the individual key alias inside). Think of it like a password-protected vault containing your signing identity. Android uses a key inside this vault to sign your APK or AAB.
All lessons in this course
- Creating a Keystore and Signing the AAB
- Setting Up the Play Console Listing
- Content Ratings, Policies, and Privacy
- Internal Testing, Staged Rollout, and Production