How do you make a working app store for the companion (includes the same apps from Google play)?

MIT App Inventor Help
1

I'm trying to have like a app store like Google play and app store but am unsure how to do it and don't even know if its possible

2

Your topic title doesn't match your question.

To answer your topic title, no. You would need to install the app from Google Play to use it.

To answer your topic question, Google Play probably has hundreds of developer working on their app store. You can create something simple, with a dynamic website and a data store, it is all the other stuff that gives confidence to potential downloaders that you have to consider. Many on here have tried, and eventually given up due to the complexities and lack of interest from others.

3

Your implying that its possible for a simple data store filled with apps into a companion
But your saying that lots have tried and failed saying that its complex

4

Not saying you can't do it, just advising on what we have seen previously. Once you get past the initial provision of apps, there is a entire rainbow of extra you may need to consider to give confidence to any user of your app store. I rarely, if ever, download and run an apk from an unknown source.

5

There's hardly any unknown source (apps) in the store and what I saw through my past experience. There's are some components that can be used for this project

6

Best you can do is to get on with it.

7

That's the easy part but getting on with the code I will need some assistance

8

This is the AppInventor community, not the right place to get help for developing app stores.

9

You know where I can find such help

10

StackOverflow: html/css/javascript/mysql (or other database) + secure file storage

or look for a website builder

or there is always the new kid on the block...(AI)

11

Don't waste your time, nobody will be going to use your app store...it takes billions to run such things!

12

Sorry but I'm refusing this project

13

Just to fill this out, this is what Gemini said:

Creating an Android app store is a complex project that goes far beyond a simple app. It requires building a complete platform for developers and users, with a secure backend, a robust frontend, and a business model for handling payments and content.

Here are the key steps and considerations for creating your own Android app store:

1. Strategic Planning and Research

Before you write any code, you need a solid plan.

  • Define Your Niche: The market is dominated by Google Play. To compete, you need a unique value proposition. Will your store focus on indie games, educational apps, or a specific region?
  • Business Model: How will you make money? The standard models are:
    • Developer Fees: Charge developers a fee to list their apps.
    • Transaction Fees: Take a percentage of in-app purchases and subscriptions. Google Play, for example, charges a service fee of 15% on the first $1 million in annual revenue, which then increases to 30%.
    • Advertising: Display ads within the app store interface.
  • Legal and Compliance: This is a critical and often overlooked step. You'll need to handle legal requirements for data privacy (like GDPR and CCPA), intellectual property rights for the content you host, and end-user license agreements.

2. Technical Architecture and Development

An app store is a two-sided platform that requires a robust technical foundation.

  • Backend Infrastructure: This is the engine of your store. It needs to handle user accounts, developer submissions, app hosting (APK file storage), a database for app metadata, and a secure payment gateway. You'll need to build APIs to allow the frontend to interact with this data.
  • Developer Portal: This is the interface for app developers. It should allow them to:
    • Upload and manage their app's APK files.
    • Enter app information (descriptions, screenshots, categories).
    • View download statistics and revenue reports.
  • Frontend User App: This is the part users see. It must be a native Android app that can browse, search for, and download apps. Key features include:
    • A sleek and intuitive user interface.
    • Secure user authentication.
    • A robust search and recommendation engine.
    • A secure download manager that handles installation and updates.
  • Security: Since you'll be handling user data and payments, security is paramount. You need to implement measures to prevent malware, protect user information, and ensure the integrity of the apps on your store.

3. Monetization and Payment Systems

Monetization is more than just taking a cut; it requires a complex payment infrastructure.

  • In-App Purchases (IAP): If you plan to allow paid apps or in-app purchases, you'll need to build a system to process payments securely. This requires integrating a payment gateway and handling developer payouts.
  • Subscriptions: For apps with recurring charges, you need to manage subscription lifecycles, including renewals, cancellations, and grace periods.
  • Reporting and Payouts: You must have a system to accurately track revenue and provide developers with detailed reports, and then securely pay them their earnings.

Creating an Android app store is a significant undertaking that requires a team of experts in development, product management, and legal compliance. It's a project that can take years to complete.