Set up a Google Group for your closed test
Use a group when you want one place to manage your testers. Prepare a group link and a test opt-in link. Label them clearly so people know which step they have finished.
Create the group
- Sign in to Google Groups. Select Create group, enter a name and group email, choose settings, then create it.
- Choose who can join. Invited-only groups require an invitation; other settings can allow requests or direct joining.
- Review who can see conversations, members and member email addresses. Work or school administrators may restrict external membership.
These settings are described in Google's group setup guide. Our recommendation: keep the member list private and make the joining instructions easy to follow.
Connect the group to the track
In Play Console, open Test and release > Testing > Closed testing > Manage track > Testers. Select Google Groups. Enter the group's email address, such as yourgroupname@googlegroups.com, add a feedback channel, copy the shareable link and save. Group members must still use that link to opt in. Google's closed-test setup steps.
Use the group email in the tester setting, rather than its web page address. Put the web page address in your invitation for people to open.
Check the invitation before sending it widely
Ask a willing tester to follow your instructions from start to finish. Have them confirm each step instead of replying only that the link works.
- They can reach the intended group and understand how to join.
- The account they use for the test is the one you expect in the group.
- They can reach the app's opt-in page and then install the intended build.
- They know the first task and where to send feedback.
Keep any account details in a private record. If joining fails, check pending invitations and membership settings before changing the app. If installation fails, record the exact message and check your release checklist.