Essential 33-Point Checklist for Seamless App Store Submission to Achieve Application Approval

Essential 33-Point Checklist for Seamless App Store Submission to Achieve Application Approval

Ready to tackle the App Store and get your app approved on the first go? Here's the lowdown on what it takes to make it happen, straight from the trenches of our veteran iOS app development agency.

First off, remember that Apple has been cracking down on apps that don't adhere to their guidelines, rejecting nearly one-third of the submissions between 2017 and 2019. So, if you're not up-to-date on their rules, your app could be in big trouble.

To guarantee a smooth sail, follow these core principles:

1. Nail the Basics

Kick things off by ensuring your app is complete with all the bells and whistles to publish. Here's what you'll need:

• A captivating app icon and name that screams your brand
• A check of the country guidelines you want to publish in
• Rights to use third-party content and permissions
• A solid privacy policy that sets customers' minds at ease (and don't forget to update it regularly)
• Age Ratings Matter

Apps under this age rating contain no objectionable material.

Apple will assign a rating to your app based on your answers to their age rating questions. This rating may change when you submit updates to your app.

Apps in the category may contain cartoons, fantasy, mild nature, and realistic violence content that are mild or have infrequent occurrences.

The age rating you receive isn't determined by who will use your app or your target audience. Instead, it's based on the content of your app and whether it's suitable for that age category.

Content in this age rating app will contain infrequent mild language, frequent cartoons, fantasy, realistic violence, mature suggestive themes, and simulated gambling, which might not be suitable for children below age 12.

| Age | Category | Examples ||-----|--------------------------------|------------|| 4 | No objectionable material | HighBrow Unlimited, PayPal || 9 | Mild cartoons, fantasy, and violence | Duolingo || 12 | Infrequent mild language, violence, and suggestive themes | Netflix || 17 | Intense violence and offensive language | Evernote, Tinder |

Apps in this category may contain intense violence or offensive language. Apart from intense fantasy, these apps may contain sexual content, nudity, alcohol, dating, tobacco, and drugs suitable for only the 17+ age group.

Be careful when choosing categories like "Prolonged Graphic/Sadistic Realistic Violence" or "Graphic Sexual Content/Nudity," as selecting either of these would prevent your app from being published in the App Store.

1. Find the Perfect Category

For example, HighBrow Unlimited and PayPal

Once you've tackled the age rating, it's time to list your app under a primary category. Apple offers around 25 categories to choose from. Select the one that best describe's your app's purpose and where users are most likely to find it.

For example, Duolingo

If you have an app for kids under 11, be sure to select the "Made for Kids" checkbox in the App Store Connect and pick an appropriate age band (5 and under, 6-8, or 9-11). Your app should also comply with the rules and guidelines for kid-focused apps.

For example, Netflix

1. Get Your Screenshots and Promotional Text in Order

For example, Evernote and Tinder

After you've chosen your category, take a close look at the version information. Here's where you'll need your app screenshots and promotional text that describe your app. Make sure your screenshots meet Apple's specifications for app screenshots.

1. Don't Forget the Bloody Details

The app review team will need your app sign-in information and contact details to complete the review. Provide any bonus information that can help them test the app effectively. Also, have at least one contact person from your organization on standby for any questions from the App Store review team.

Looking to create and publish your app in the Apple App Store? Our talented team of iOS developers is ready to lend a hand.

With this checklist, you've learned the essential details for submitting your app to the Apple App Store. Remember, their review team is quite thorough, so prepare accordingly!

If you're considering converting your iOS app to Android in the future, check out our detailed guide for more insights.

Enrichment Data:

While specific guidelines from an iOS app development agency are absent, key points for a successful App Store submission can be inferred from general guidelines and recent updates:

Tips for Successful App Store Submission

1. Comply with Review Guidelines
2. Make sure your app adheres to Apple's updated App Review Guidelines, including new requirements related to data privacy, API usage, and technical specifications.[1][2]
3. Nail the Design and User Experience
4. Create a user-friendly app that Apple values, focusing on an intuitive and seamless user experience.[2]
5. Stay on Top of Privacy Rules
6. Ensure your app respects user privacy; violations can lead to rejection, with over 400,000 apps being rejected in 2024 for this reason alone.[3]
7. Implement proper data handling practices as per the updated Apple Developer Program License Agreement.[1]
8. No Hidden Features
9. Avoid undocumented features and be transparent about your app's functionality and features to avoid rejection.[3]
10. Avoid Scams and Manipulation
11. Refrain from deceiving users or manipulating app rankings; Apple actively monitors and removes apps involved in these activities.[3]
12. Stay Compliant with Marketing Guidelines
13. Ensure your marketing materials fit within Apple's guidelines, avoiding misleading users or using false promotional claims.[3]
14. Understand Payment and In-App Purchase Implications
15. Recognize the impact of EU DMA rules on in-app purchases and customer communication. Although Apple hasn't fully implemented changes, it's essential to stay informed on future regulations affecting payment processes.[5]
16. Follow the Correct Submission Process
17. Adhere to the submission process outlined by Apple, including using TestFlight for beta testing and following the guidelines for digital purchases and tester invitations.[1][4]

By focusing on these points, developers can enhance their chances of a successful submission to the App Store.

1. To ensure the smooth publication and approval of your app in the Apple App Store, it's crucial to comprehend the updated App Review Guidelines and adhere to them, including requirements related to data privacy, API usage, and technical specifications.
2. In addition, the design and user experience of your app should be user-friendly, focusing on an intuitive and seamless experience. Furthermore, it's essential to respect user privacy in your app to avoid rejection, as over 400,000 apps were rejected in 2024 due to privacy-related violations.

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