The basic difference is that the release version of the app (live app) is the one that is uploaded to the app stores. A trial version of an app (preview app) has the full functionality (including push) of a live app except for the possibility of in-app purchase (IAP) and whenever the app is started app.
Furthermore, there are differences in the required certificates:
Test / Preview app
- Android: no certificates required
- iOS: no certificates required except for testing of individual push notifications or analytics settings
- free
Release app
- Android: certificates required
- iOS: certificates required
Moreover, the Android and iOS developer accounts have both been linked to the Purple DS Manager account.
The creation and building of Purple DS is free for you .