How to test expansion file without publishing the application on android market

Question

I need to test expansion file without publishing application on android market. I tried to google but didn't find any way to do this.

Is this possible?

Answer 1

Update for those reading this post, you now have to publish your apk in alpha or beta mode before the expansion files will work and you can test your app. I have also included some info that may come in handy to.

NOTE 1

You can't use draft anymore as the link to get the expansion file won't be active yet. You have to upload a version to Alpha or Beta first with expansion file. (adding an expansion file is only possible from the second apk you upload and up) So make sure you see the apk expansion file listed when you click the details in the developer publish section under APK.

NOTE 2

If you are using android studio and want to make use of the downloader library don't just copy the package name and java files into your own app src directory. Import the downloader library in eclipse and choose export => gradle build files. Afterwards you can import the library as a module in android studio.

NOTE 3

Not sure of this but I also think it's neccesary to download the app atleast once through the play store and have access to it with the account on your test device. So if you are working with alpha create a google+ test group and add yourself or other test devices to it.