app is published on the app store, it isn’t live. For an app developer, knowing the app store
guidelines is one of the most important things. Without being clear to the guidelines, it is easy to
make mistakes that can result in the instant rejection of the app. Unfortunately, it is not that easy
to get an app reject approved again.
How do you ensure that your app is accepted into Apple’s iOS store?
Every mobile app submitted to iTunes store is manually reviewed by apple to make sure they
are up to the mark. The regulations set by Apple are quite strict and many times an app is sent
back to the iPhone app development company for refinement.
The Apple app store already has over 1.5 million apps and holds no place for incompetent or
uninteresting apps. There can be several reasons for Apple to reject your app based on content,
incomplete information or not mentioning particular warnings for specific apps. Here are 7 most
important reasons why apps are sent back by Apple. We will discuss how to avoid them too.
1. Incomplete or inaccurate information
14% of all apps are rejected under the statement of "More information needed." It means the
review submission forms that the app developers have to fill out are incomplete or defective. Be
sure to input all the information that is necessary for the review. Also mention the special
features and functions of your app in details. You can include a demo video to improve your
chances of approval
2. Bugs or performance issues
Apps with performance problems will be rejected outright by Apple and such apps form 8% of
the top 10 rejection reasons. Be sure to perform multiple testing rounds of your app on the
devices it is meant to run. For better results, run tests with a professional software that help you
identify the problems effectively. Only submit your app when you are sure of its performance.
3. Uninteresting and common content
Apple does not like apps without any purpose or creativity. If the function of your app can be
carried out by a browser, then Apple will not accept your app. There also needs to be relevant
native features and incentive to users to use and come back to your app. Create and optimize
the current content to make it attract users and engage them.
4. Poor design
Unsatisfactory user interface and designing make 6% of the top 10 reasons why Apple rejects
an app. You should primarily follow the Apple Human Interface Guideline and base it to develop
an app with a logical, simple and refined interface. The design in itself should be intuitive
enough to guide the user through navigation as there are no user manuals for apps. You should
get yourself familiar with the interface guidelines before starting out.
5. Mentioning name of competitors
Apple is quite sensitive when it comes to branding and will not approve your app if you have
mentioned any third party applications or platforms in your app name, icon or metadata. Any
reference to direct competitors should be wiped out from the content. When dealing with
screenshots, stick to iPhone device captures as showing other devices will result in rejection.
6. Duplicating Apple and other app designs
Apple hates duplicity and will not entertain a mobile app that looks like stock iOS apps. You
should focus on creating original and unique design elements which are different from Apple’s
trademark elements. For that you have to first get aware of Apple’s designing trends by studying
official Apple apps like iTunes, iMessage, etc. Avoid plagiarism and try to stay original as much
as possible.
7. Incomplete or beta apps
Apple only accepts apps that are fully finalized and have passed through all the testing rounds.
If you mention terms like “demo”, “test” or “beta” anywhere in the app or metadata, be sure your
app will get dumped. An iPhone app development company should avoid using any such word
when submitting to Apple. The app should also be complete with proper performance.