Are you preparing your app to publish it on Google Play and You need to create screenshots that really sell your product.You're not alone. Screenshots in your app listing aren't just a visual flourish; they're a decisive factor that can increase downloads by up to 30% if well-designed.
In this article, we'll show you how to create professional screenshots for Google Play that meet the platform's technical requirements, yet also create a visual impact and convert visitors into new users. We'll go over every relevant aspect, from dimensions, formats, and technical specifications to design tips, tools for creating them, and even how to strategically organize them within your store listing.
Why screenshots are essential on Google Play
Screenshots are one of the most visible and influential visual elements within your profile. application on the Google Play Store. Its purpose is Immediately communicate what your app looks like and what it does, conveying its features, aesthetics, and key benefits before the user accesses more information or clicks the download button.
In some cases, depending on the listing's configuration, the user can view screenshots directly from search results or featured sections. Therefore, having eye-catching, clean, and well-structured images can make all the difference.
Various studies, including one by PickASO, estimate that proper visual optimization of screenshots can increase downloads by up to 30%, making it a key lever within ASO (App Store Optimization) strategies.
Technical requirements for creating screenshots on Google Play
Before designing your screenshots, it's essential to understand the technical requirements imposed by Google Play. Failure to follow them could result in your app not being published or its visual assets not displaying correctly.
- Minimum quantity: You must upload at least 2 screenshots.
- Format: JPEG or PNG without transparency (24 bits).
- Resolution: Minimum 320 pixels and maximum 3840 pixels per side.
- Recommended aspect ratio: 16:9 for horizontal captures and 9:16 for vertical.
- Maximum dimensions: The largest dimension cannot exceed twice the smallest dimension.
- File weight: Up to 8 MB per image.
Google recommends using at least four screenshots of 1080p or higher resolution to be included in the store's featured selections. Additionally, if you plan to distribute your app across different types of devices (tablets, Chromebooks, Android TV, Wear OS), you'll need to upload specific screenshots for each one.
Screenshots for specific devices
Google Play allows you to upload screenshots specific to multiple device types, giving you the ability to visually customize your app for each experience.
Android phones and tablets
- Up to 8 captures per device type
- For tablets: minimum 4 screenshots
- Resolution between 1080 and 7680 pixels
Wear OS (smartwatches)
- At least 1 capture is essential
- Minimum size: 384×384 px
- Aspect ratio: 1: 1
- They should not have frames, external elements, or extra text
Android TV and banners
- Mandatory at least 1 capture
- It must also include a banner image (1280×720 px in JPEG or PNG without transparency)
Best practices and tips for creating stunning screenshots
A good screenshot isn't just a static image of your app: it should tell a story, show value, and visually guide the user as to why they should download your product.
Put the most important thing at the beginning
The first three images are the ones that have the most impact, as they're usually visible directly from search results or featured sections. Make sure they're the most compelling, communicate the app's main benefit, and showcase its most powerful features.
Use titles and text within screenshots
Add short phrases that reinforce the message of each screen, explaining what the displayed functionality does or what advantage it offers. Just don't overuse the text. Google recommends that text occupy no more than 20% of the image and that it be localized for each language or target market.
Choose a design line consistent with your brand
Use a color palette, typography, and visual styles consistent with your brand identity. This makes it easier for the user to recognize your app even before reading its name.
Mockups and visual presentation
A mockup is a simulation of the device on which your app image is displayed. These are useful for providing context to your screenshot. You can use frames that represent a smartphone, tablet, or watch, but avoid including unnecessary elements like buttons or generic frames if they aren't part of the actual design.
Visual style: linear or disruptive
Linear designs feature the device's image and an explanatory phrase above or below. They are simple and clean. Disruptive mockups, on the other hand, allow for more play: you can rotate the mockup, layer elements, or divide the design into several more artistic parts. The key is to keep it legible.
Tools to create professional screenshots
Having the right tools can make the screenshot process more professional and efficient. Here are some we recommend:
- Adobe Illustrator: Ideal for creating multiple screens in a single vector-resolution file. Useful if you work with logos or high-quality graphic elements.
- Adobe Photoshop: Excellent for working with backgrounds, realistic mockups and effects.
- Specific tools such as SCAR or Screenshot Easy: Perfect for quickly capturing screenshots, adding annotations, cropping, compressing, and editing images without leaving the capture environment.
How to organize screenshots within the Google Play listing
The order of captures influences more than you think. The first three receive the most visibility. Therefore, you should prioritize:
- 1st capture: main message that summarizes the purpose of the app.
- 2nd and 3rd capture: key or differentiating features compared to the competition.
- Following screenshots: secondary sections, additional benefits or attractive visual aspects.
Common mistakes to avoid when creating screenshots
Google is very strict about certain practices. Ignoring them could result in your app being rejected or content being removed from the listing.
- Including slogans such as “Free,” “Best,” “Millions of downloads”… is prohibited.
- Using emojis, symbols, or excessive or poorly readable fonts.
- Blurry, pixelated, or manipulated-looking screenshots.
- Display devices or frames that do not match the actual captured content.
- Images not directly related to the functionality of the app.
What about preview videos?
Videos are optional, but recommended, especially in games. They are displayed before screenshots and can play automatically for up to 30 seconds with the sound muted.
To add a video you need to upload it to YouTube and share the link without additional parameters. (e.g., no start time). You should disable monetization and ensure it doesn't have age restrictions or copyrighted content.
Design screenshots for different platforms and sizes
Some tools, like webtoapp.design, allow you to automatically generate screenshots from a simulated preview of your app on different devices. This is very useful if you don't have all the required models, such as tablets, Android TV, or Wear OS.
Also, if you decide to do it manually, be sure to follow the device-specific sizes for both Android and Apple if you're distributing your app on both stores.
Having specific screenshots tailored to each screen, rather than simple generic cutouts, improves the viewing experience and can increase downloads.
Designing good screenshots for Google Play is not only a technical task, but also a strategic one. It's not just about meeting the requirements, but also about making a great first impression. Share this guide and learn how to take screenshots from your Android phone..
