Setup Google Play Developer API for APKs publishing from continuous integration server

Sometimes you need to publish a whole bunch of apps, which makes you think about automation through Google Play Publishing API. The access to API can be setup only by the account owner, and you may end up with the following screen.

Here is the detailed step by step instruction on how to setup the Developer API access fo your boss, IT support, offshore client, you name it - the person that actually owns the account.

(all screenshots are clickable)

1. Go to "Settings"

2. Open "API access" and click "Create New Project"

3. Click "Create Service Account"

4. Navigate to "Google API Console" in a new tab (right-click => "open in a new tab")

5. Click "Create Service Account"

6. Fill in the form as described here. Add "Service Accounts" => "Service Account User" role.

7. Additionally, add "Service Accounts" => "Service Account Token Creator" role.

8. Check the checkbox to furnish a new private key in JSON format.

9. Make sure the private key (JSON) is downloaded. It should be securely stored.

10. Return back to the previous tab and finish the service account creation.

11. Check if the newly created service account is listed and click "Grant Access"

12. Make sure "Release manager" role is selected and click "Add user".

Now you can proceed with builds and publishing automation on continuous integration server using open source helper tool Fastlane!