Android Question Local install convert to PlayStore install

[Rusty]

I have deployed many copies of software "manually" on hundreds of 10" tablets.
The "manual" part was by inserting an SDcard and running an install program.
This process copies files, databases etc. onto the internal storage and then installs the appropriate APKs

These tablets are now spread all over the USA so it is not feasible to update them manually.
I have access to them via TCP/IP and can update them over it but would like to change the installations to where it can be managed by Google play services.

Is there a way to send a new APK (via TCP) to these tablets; install the APK and have it re-direct future updates to the Play Store?
Thanks,
Rusty

 

[udg]

Hi Rusty,
I don't know about the official PlayStore system, but I hope for you that you have not to uninstall current apk and then download a new (identical) one from the PS in order to activate the updating cycle.

An alternative (and independent) approach could be that of using my lib AppUpdating to make available on a server of yours (or Dropbox) an upgrade for your app.

udg

 

[Ed Brown]

Hi @Rusty,

I've been in the same situation and have uploaded the app to PlayStore. I have found that the devices that have been manually installed are able to receive updates from the PlayStore.

Note: this has been the case for my situation.

 

[Rusty]

Thanks Ed. I'll give it a try.
Do you have to do anything to make it "look at Playstore"? or does it do that automatically?
(my app is on the playstore "Private Channel" and it doesn't update the way I'm doing things right now.)
Rusty

 

[Ed Brown]

I did not have to do anything for the app to pick up the updates. It just worked - which was a relief for me and a nice surprise.
My app is not using a private channel - in hind sight I probably should have used one.