How to install a separate test version of the application?

Question

Android

How to set up the app's build gradle file so that when run on a real device, a separate test version is installed?
It is assumed that the phone already has a stable version downloaded from google play and it is necessary that the test application be placed side by side, and not try to update the existing application.

Answer 1

Using flavor. It's also a good reason to give kicks to anyone who has hardcoded the package name.

productFlavors {
        flavorDimensions "build"
        product {
            dimension "build"
        }

        develop {
            dimension "build"
            applicationIdSuffix ".dev"
            versionNameSuffix "-dev"
        }
}

Answer 2

installation is guided by the package name and digital signature of the creator.
to create an alternative application - it must be renamed and re-signed.