Building a mobile app is just the beginning. Once you’ve finished your iOS app, getting it onto the Apple App Store is a crucial step to reach your users. But Apple has tough rules and a thorough review process, so you need to be well-prepared.
This article will guide you through how to get your app ready for App Store submission—covering technical needs and smart approaches. Whether it’s your first app or your fifth, this guide will help you prepare for approval.
Why Getting Ready for App Store Submission Is Important
The App Store has strict quality standards. Apple aims to ensure each app provides a safe, stable, and smooth experience. If your app fails to meet the requirements, it might face rejection, which could delay your launch or damage your brand’s image.
At Arobit, a reliable mobile app development company, we’ve helped companies of various sizes release their apps on iOS by handling both development and submission processes.
Step-by-Step Guide: Getting Your iOS App Ready for Submission
1. Check Apple’s App Store Guidelines
Start by reading the App Store Review Guidelines. This document outlines Apple’s rules and expectations for content, functionality, user privacy, and user interface.
Key Focus Areas:
- Stay away from misleading info.
- Make sure the app runs
- Keep user data private
- Steer clear of copycat or spammy apps.
2. Put Your App Through Its Paces
It’s essential to test your app on several real iOS devices. Check that the app:
- Doesn’t break down or hang
- Functions on various screen sizes (iPhones, iPads)
- Runs well even with poor internet
- Follows Apple’s Human Interface Guidelines
Use TestFlight, Apple’s beta testing tool, to share your app with testers and get their input.
3. Get Your App Details Ready
Your app’s App Store listing should explain what it does and why people should download it.
You’ll need:
- App Name: Keep it brief, clear, and descriptive.
- Subtitle: A short phrase that backs up the name
- App Description: Break down your app’s features and perks in a friendly way.
- Keywords: Boost your app’s visibility in App Store searches.
- Screenshots: High-quality images showing your app at work
- App Preview Video (optional): A quick demo video to grab more attention
- App Icon: Stick to Apple’s size and format rules for icons.
4. Make Sure Your App Works Well and Has Good Features
Your app should have useful features and not be a copy of another app. Apple wants apps that are one of a kind and valuable—not copies or apps that lack real use.
Remember to:
- Get rid of placeholder content.
- Turn on all main functions.
- Give users a smooth experience
5. Get Your App Store Connect Account Ready
To send in an app, you need an Apple Developer account and an App Store Connect account.
Steps:
- Sign up for the Apple Developer Program ($99/year).
- Make your app record in App Store Connect
- Add metadata and app details
- Send your app build using Xcode or Transporter.
6. Set Up App Privacy Options
Apple puts user privacy first. You need to tell users:
- What info your app gathers
- How you use this info
- If you share this info with others
Fill in the privacy part in App Store Connect with correct details. You’ll also need a privacy policy link.
7. Create In-App Buys (If Needed)
If your app sells things inside it (like subscriptions or special content), set these up in App Store Connect before you send in your app. Make sure your prices and how people buy things follow Apple’s rules.
8. Make Your App Work in Different Languages
If your app targets users in different countries, think about making it local-friendly, along with its details. This can boost your worldwide reach and make users happier.
9. Use Xcode to Upload Your App Build
Xcode is Apple’s main tool for iOS app development. It’s what you’ll use to package and send your build to App Store Connect.
Before you upload:
- Bump up your version and build number.
- Do one last round of testing.
- Check your app in Xcode to spot any possible issues.
10. Send It for Review
When you’ve got everything ready:
- Pick how you want to release (by hand or )
- Choose which devices work with your app.
- Send your app off for review.
The time it takes to review an app falls between 24 and 72 hours.
Tips to Make Your Submission Go Smoothly
- Check everything twice: a tiny mistake can cause your app to be turned down.
- Keep yourself in the loop: Apple changes its rules often.
- Talk to Apple if needed: If they say no to your app, Apple tells you why. Fix what’s wrong and try again.
Questions People Often Ask About Sending Apps to the Apple Store
Q1: How long does Apple take to look at my app? Most apps get checked in 24 to 72 hours, but some might take more time if they’re complex or if it’s a busy holiday time.
Q2: What happens if my app is rejected? You’ll get a message that explains why. Fix the problem and send the build again for another look.
Q3: Can I update my app after submission? Yes. You can send new versions or updates when you need to. Each version goes through a separate check.
Q4: Do I need a Mac to submit an app to the App Store? Yes. You need macOS and Xcode on your computer to build and send iOS apps.
Q5: Is an Apple Developer account required for submission? Yes. You must have one, and it costs $99 each year.
How Arobit Can Help
Putting an iOS app on the App Store can be daunting for newcomers or business owners. At Arobit, we make this task easier for you.
As a mobile app development company with plenty of know-how, we:
- Create and build top-notch iOS apps
- Make sure everything follows Apple’s rules.
- Take care of TestFlight beta testing and app fine-tuning.
- Deal with the whole submission process, from uploading to Xcode to getting the metadata ready.
- Give support and updates after the launch.
If you need a trustworthy team for iOS app development, we’re ready to turn your idea into an App Store reality with skill and care.
Final Thoughts
Getting your app ready for the Apple App Store isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s a smart move. Every little thing matters, from how users interact with your app to how you handle their data. If you prep well and team up with a good developer, your app can shine and sail through approval.