testing analytics SDK based app without actually deploying it on App Store

Question

1. I want to integrate user reward referral functionality in my app. To achieve the same with the help of Firebase, I generated a unique link (by formatting link parameter) with the help of dynamic builder API. This link is working fine (No error found in Debug Dynamic Links doc). Now, I send this dynamic link to my friend, he is redirected to app store, he downloaded the app but current version of app present on app store, does not have the Firebase SDK integrated. I want to track events like successful installation through my unique dynamic link, then to reward referrer and referee with some amount . Will I able to track this? or is it necessary that my app being downloaded from app store should also have Firebase SDK integrated?

2. If it is necessary then in that scenario, how would i test that the analytics of events(install, first_open etc.) are working fine or not, without actually releasing my app on app store?

Answer 1

The Firebase SDK must be integrated in order for the referral to be tracked.

This is because the SDK is used to verify whether that user came from a Firebase link, without the SDK that user will simply look like a direct install, not a referral. You're best option is to have two test devices. Send the referral link from one device to the other, then tap the link on the device that received the link. After the tap, install the Firebase version on that same device from your computer and open it. (you might have to delete the app off of the referred app first if it was already installed). This should trigger a referral count.

I also recommend checking our Branch as they have a much more out of the box referral system with their deep links.

Answer 2

As Clay says, the SDK is needed for tracking via Google Analytics. For the second point: first_open will trigger even if you install just on your test device locally.

You can use the GA DebugView in the Firebase console to see the events come in live, which makes testing pretty straightforward!