How NOT To Have Your App Rejected By Apple

We try and make creating and submitting your app as easy as possible, but when it comes to getting your App approved by the Apple AppStore, it’s important to understand their submission process to help fast track your success! Apple can take up to 2 weeks to approve your app, so it’s best to get it right the first time!

Changes in App Store Policies in the EU

As of January 25, 2024, Apple made significant changes to its App Store policies due to a European Commission antitrust investigation. Game streaming apps, like Xbox Cloud Streaming and GeForce Now, are now allowed.

Additionally, iPhone users in the European Union can use third-party app stores and browser engines. These developments may change the app submission process, giving developers fresh opportunities and challenges to explore.

Here are some useful tips about things you can and can’t do if you want your App approved. So if you’re about to submit your App to the Apple AppStore for review for the first time, take a few moments to go over this help guide to avoid any disappointment.

Alternatively, if you prefer, we can submit your iOS App to the App Store for review for you, and we’ll be happy to work with you to guarantee your App is accepted.

Understanding Apple’s Human Interface Guidelines

Apple’s Human Interface Guidelines serve as a foundation for app design, stressing clarity and usability. Ensuring that your app follows these guidelines not only enhances user experience but also aligns with Apple’s evaluation criteria.

Features like intuitive navigation and consistent design elements can improve your app’s chances of approval. Consider these guidelines a checklist for design and functionality that keeps the end-user in mind.

Here are the top 5 tips we recommend that you follow before submitting your App…

1. Make sure that the Publish Page on the CMS is fully and correctly filled in.

If you are submitting an iOS app, you’ll need to tick the Apple AppStore Submission section. You will then be asked to fill in the multiple choice “Content Rating” section below that lets Apple know what kind of content is in your app and whether it’s suitable for kids or not. If your app is made for kids, you need to choose which age range they are.

2. Make sure your app has Native Functionality.

Don’t worry, we’ve already done this part for you! Apple just wants to make sure that apps have a purpose and are using the iPhones and iPad’s native functions. These native functions are features that are built into the phone, such as being able to call, email and access location services, etc.

Licensing Requirements for Apps in China

Developers aiming to release apps on China’s App Store must adhere to updated licensing requirements. From September 2023, new apps require a license from the Chinese government.

Older apps need compliance by March 2024. Developers should ensure their apps meet these regulatory standards to avoid rejection or removal from the Chinese App Store.

3. An App with empty modules will be rejected by Apple.

It’s important to include content in all of your app modules. Before sending your app for submission, make sure you’ve not forgotten to fill in any content, so double check and triple check it! Check it all, down to the very last detail.

Ensuring Data Privacy Compliance

Data privacy is a top priority for Apple. Ensure your app complies with regulations by processing user data ethically and transparently.

A clear privacy policy must be in place, detailing data usage and seeking explicit user consent. Apps failing to meet these standards face possible rejection, so it’s wise to regularly review and update your data practices.

4. When submitting to Apple, DON’T mention Android…

Or Google Play, infact, don’t mention anything related to any other app platform or operating system. Look at it this way… it’s kind of like Apple saying “go buy/download this Android product” or McDonald’s telling you to go try this new burger from Burger King. It’s like selling your competitor’s product. You just wouldn’t do it.

5. All content must not display anything related to Apple.

Apps that infer that Apple is the developer or source, or that Apple endorses the quality or functionality of an App will be rejected. Similarly, Apps that appear confusingly similar to an existing Apple product, interface, or advertising theme will be rejected. So make sure your content is all your own and reflects YOUR brand/business, not Apple’s.

Incorporating Accessibility Features

Accessibility is key for apps to cater to people with varied needs. Supporting features like VoiceOver and text that adapts can make a significant difference.

Implementing Apple’s accessibility guidelines can lead to a smoother approval process and broaden your app’s user base. Regular checks and updates help ensure continuous compliance with accessibility standards.

Although these are only a few of the guidelines, it’s a good idea to read up on Apple’s App Store Review Guidelines so that you know for future App submissions.