Where do alpha testers download Google Play Android apps?

Question

I have developed my app and have published it through Google Play for alpha testing. As one of the testers I get an opt-in link, where I signed in as a tester. After that I

Answer 1

Under APK/ALPHA TESTING/MANAGE TESTERS you find:

Choose the method you want. Then you need to first upload your Apk. Before it can be published you need to go to the usual steps in publishing which means: you need icons, the FSK ratings, screenshots etc.

After you added it you click on publish.

You find the link for your testers at:

Answer 2

Another issue of that page if you use multiple playstore accounts:

In some cases you still get a 404, even if you are currently logged in with the right account, the one you joined the beta community with. As a workaround, you can clear the browser cache, use another browser for the beta signup, or just use the incognito mode of your browser.

Answer 3

You need to publish the app before it becomes available for testing.

if you publish the app and the apk is only in "alpha testing" section then it is NOT available to general public, only for activated testers in the alpha section.

EDIT: One additional note: "normal" users will not find your app on Google Play, but also the activated tester can not find the application by using the search box.

Only the direct link to the application package will work. (only for the activated testers).