App-ads.txt FAQ

Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about app-ads.txt.

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What is a developer website?

A developer website lets your users learn more about your apps and other content. It’s linked from your store listings in Google Play or the App Store. 

For apps in the App Store, add your developer website in the marketing URL field.

How should I host the app-ads.txt file if I don’t have a developer website?

If you don’t currently have a developer website, you’ll need to create one through a web hosting solution. Review the app-ads.txt guide for more details. 

Where should I host my app-ads.txt file on my developer website?

Review Step 3 in the app-ads.txt guide. 

Where do I add my developer website in my store listing?

To add your developer website in your app store listing:

• For Google Play: Add the website URL in the contact information of your app listing:
  1. Sign in to your Play Console.
  2. Select an app.
  3. On the left menu, click Store presence, then Store listing.
  4. Scroll to Contact Details.
  5. Add your developer website URL.
• For Apple App Store: Add your developer website in the marketing URL field of your store listing. 

If you add or update a developer website within your app listing in Google Play, allow up to 24 hours for AdMob to detect these changes.

How long does it take for AdMob to verify the uploaded app-ads.txt file?

It can take 24 hours for AdMob to crawl and verify your app-ads.txt files. Wait at least 24 hours for the app-ads.txt status to update. 

If you've recently updated your developer website on the Play Store or the App Store, it may take longer to verify your app's app-ads.txt file. Wait one week before seeking additional help.

Why can't I see the status of my app-ads.txt file?

If your approved app has had only limited ad requests over the last 7 days, then the status of the app-ads.txt file might not appear in your account. Unless there is a warning notification in the app-ads.txt status in your account, then you have no app-ads.txt issues.

Why does the crawler keep crawling my app-ads.txt file from the wrong link?

The crawler may be accessing a website's subdomain. Learn more about the different subdomains that the crawlers may be accessing.

You can find the exact URL that is being crawled from the detailed app-ads.txt status in your account. You can set a redirect rule that redirects the crawler from the URL being crawled to the correct location of your app-ads.txt URL.

How do I check my publisher ID?

To find your publisher ID in the "Account information" section, click Settings in the sidebar, then click the Account tab.

Why do I see an app that isn't mine in my AdMob account?

This is a sign that app-ads.txt is working correctly to protect you against ad fraud. Keep in mind, ad sources that have adopted app-ads.txt are only buying inventory on apps that have a verified app-ads.txt file.

Note: The ability to remove apps that aren't yours is coming soon.

Implementing an app-ads.txt file helps ensure your app ad inventory is only sold through channels you’ve identified as authorized. This gives you more control over who’s allowed to sell ads on your app and helps prevent counterfeit inventory from being presented to advertisers.