Google Play Screenshot Guidelines: Requirements & Best Practices

Technical Requirements

• Minimum 2 screenshots — Required for submission. Maximum 8 per device type
• File format — JPEG or 24-bit PNG (no alpha/transparency)
• File size — Maximum 8 MB per screenshot
• Aspect ratio — 16:9 or 9:16 (landscape or portrait)
• No device frames required — But they can make screenshots look more professional
• No excessive text — Screenshots should primarily show the app, not marketing text

Recommended Dimensions

Design Best Practices

1. Show, Do Not Tell

Screenshots should primarily show your app in action. Marketing text should complement the visuals, not dominate them. Google's policy prohibits screenshots that are primarily promotional banners.

2. First Two Screenshots Are Critical

The first 2-3 screenshots appear in search results. They must instantly communicate your app's core value proposition. Put your strongest screens first.

3. Use Consistent Design

All screenshots should share a consistent color scheme, typography, and layout style. This creates a professional, cohesive impression.

4. Add Brief Captions

Short, benefit-focused captions help users understand each screen quickly. Examples: "Track your progress", "Connect with friends", "Customize your experience".

5. Highlight Unique Features

Show what makes your app different from competitors. If you have a unique dark mode, a special algorithm, or exclusive content, feature it prominently.

Feature Graphic

The feature graphic is a banner displayed at the top of your store listing (1024 x 500 px). It is optional but highly recommended.

• Dimensions: 1024 x 500 pixels
• Format: JPEG or 24-bit PNG
• Design: Should work with and without text overlay (Google may crop it)
• No text in important zones: Keep key elements in the center 70% of the image

Localized Screenshots

If your app targets multiple languages, create separate screenshot sets for each locale. Localized screenshots can increase conversion rates by 25-40% in non-English markets.

• Translate all text captions on screenshots
• Show the app in the target language
• Consider cultural differences in design preferences
• Upload screenshots under the appropriate language tab in Play Console

Our app localization service includes screenshot localization for all target markets.

Common Screenshot Rejections

• Misleading content — Screenshots showing features the app does not actually have
• Excessive promotional text — Screenshots that are mostly text with small app previews
• Competitor references — Mentioning or comparing to competitor apps in screenshots
• Fake reviews — Showing fake review scores or testimonials in screenshots
• Awards or rankings — Claiming "#1 App" or showing unverified awards
• Price claims — Showing prices that do not match the actual listing