App Store Review Guidelines: Avoiding Common Rejections

App Store's review mechanism is known for being strict. Many developers have experienced the pain of rejection. Understanding the guidelines and avoiding common pitfalls can significantly shorten the review process.

TOP 5 Common Rejection Reasons

1. Guideline 2.1 - Performance: App Completeness

Reason: App crashes, fails to load, or contains obvious placeholder content (like "Lorem Ipsum"). Solution: Conduct comprehensive TestFlight testing before submission; ensure all buttons and links work.

2. Guideline 2.3 - Performance: Accurate Metadata

Reason: Screenshots do not match actual functionality, or description uses exaggerated terms (like "Best", "No.1"). Solution: Screenshots must reflect actual in-app UI; description should be objective and avoid unverifiable absolute terms.

3. Guideline 3.1.1 - Business: In-App Purchase

Reason: Attempting to bypass the IAP system to unlock features, or hiding purchase options for digital content. Solution: Any unlocking of in-app features or virtual items must use IAP; Restore Purchase button must be clearly visible.

4. Guideline 4.0 - Design

Reason: App design is too simple, or just a simple web wrapper (Web View). Solution: Follow Human Interface Guidelines; ensure the app has a native interactive experience.

5. Guideline 5.1.1 - Legal: Data Collection and Storage

Reason: Failing to clearly explain tracking purpose in App Tracking Transparency (ATT) prompt, or collecting data before obtaining consent. Solution: Request only necessary permissions; explain permission usage in detail in Info.plist.

Pre-submission Checklist

• [ ] All metadata (title, description, keywords) is localized and typo-free.
• [ ] Test account provided (if login required).
• [ ] Privacy policy link is valid and up-to-date.
• [ ] IAP items are submitted and in "Ready to Submit" state.
• [ ] iPad screenshots uploaded (if iPad supported).

Conclusion

The review is not to make things difficult for developers, but to maintain the quality of the App Store ecosystem. Put yourself in their shoes, ensure your app is safe, useful, and compliant, and approval will follow naturally.