Beta testing (TestFlight and closed testing)
Giving a pre-release build to a limited group of testers, through TestFlight on iPhone or a closed track on Google Play, before the public sees it.
Updated October 2026 · with examples from our own builds
What does beta testing mean in practice?
Both stores let you ship builds to testers ahead of release. On iOS that is TestFlight; on Android it is the internal, closed or open testing tracks in the Play Console. Signed builds can also be handed out directly.
A beta answers the questions emulators can't: real phones, real networks and real people who don't follow the happy path. It is also where payments, signing and store setup get exercised before they matter.
Keep the release stage honest. An app on TestFlight is not on the App Store, and describing it as launched causes confusion with investors and customers.
Beta testing at a glance
- iOS route
- TestFlight
- Android route
- Internal, closed or open testing tracks
- Not the same as
- A public store listing
Where has beta testing come up in our builds?
Android versions 1.0 to 1.0.2 went to closed testing, and 1.0.3 was the first production build, with live Stripe keys. The iOS build is on TestFlight, not the App Store.
The Android app is published on Google Play, while iOS builds go to testers through TestFlight; there is no App Store release.
We chose to hand out test builds directly and set up the Play Console account later. A signed production Android build has been installed and signed in against production; the app is not in any store yet.
Common questions about beta testing
Can I charge real money during a beta?
You can, but most teams test payments in the provider's test mode first and switch to live keys with the first production release. Trainr's first production build, 1.0.3, was also its first with live Stripe keys.
Is an app on TestFlight launched?
No. TestFlight distributes builds to invited testers; the app isn't on the App Store until a release has been approved and published there.
Related terms
Sources
Planning a product and not sure where beta testing fits? Ask us, or browse all 116 terms in the glossary.