iOS App Store Publishing
Complete guide to successfully publish your iOS app to the App Store.
Pre-Submission Checklist
App Requirements
- • App icon (1024x1024, no alpha)
- • Launch screen configured
- • All required device sizes supported
- • Privacy policy URL
- • Support URL
- • App category selected
Technical Requirements
- • No private APIs used
- • No crash on launch
- • No placeholder content
- • Minimum iOS version set
- • Required capabilities declared in Info.plist
- • All entitlements properly configured
Content Requirements
- • No copyrighted content without permission
- • Age rating completed accurately
- • No misleading app metadata
- • Screenshots reflect actual app
App Store Connect Setup
App Information
App Name: [Unique, max 30 characters] Subtitle: [Max 30 characters, keyword-rich] Bundle ID: com.yourcompany.appname SKU: [Unique identifier, any format] Primary Language: [Your main market]
Version Information
Version: 1.0.0 (semantic versioning) Build: Auto-incremented integer What's New: [Release notes for updates]
App Store Optimization (ASO)
Title & Subtitle
- •Use primary keyword in title
- •Subtitle for secondary keywords
- •Avoid keyword stuffing
Keywords Field (100 chars)
Format: keyword1,keyword2,keyword3 (no spaces after commas) Tips: - Use singular forms (app searches both) - Avoid duplicating title/subtitle words - Include common misspellings - Research competitor keywords
Description
First Paragraph (Above the fold): - Hook with main value proposition - Include primary keywords naturally Features Section: • Feature 1 - Benefit explanation • Feature 2 - Benefit explanation • Feature 3 - Benefit explanation Social Proof: "Quote from user/press" - Source Call to Action: Download now and experience [benefit]!
Screenshots
| Device | Size | Slots |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 6.7" | 1290 x 2796 | Up to 10 |
| iPhone 6.5" | 1284 x 2778 | Up to 10 |
| iPhone 5.5" | 1242 x 2208 | Up to 10 |
| iPad Pro 12.9" | 2048 x 2732 | Up to 10 |
Best Practices:
- •First 3 screenshots most important
- •Show key features, not onboarding
- •Add captions/callouts
- •Use device frames (optional)
- •Localize for major markets
App Preview Videos
- •15-30 seconds optimal
- •No hands/devices in frame
- •Start with impact moment
- •Include captions (often muted)
Common Rejection Reasons
Guideline 2.1 - App Completeness
Issue: Crashes, placeholder content, incomplete features Fix: Thorough testing, remove "Coming Soon" features
Guideline 2.3 - Accurate Metadata
Issue: Screenshots don't match app, misleading description Fix: Update screenshots, honest descriptions
Guideline 4.2 - Minimum Functionality
Issue: App is too simple, web wrapper, template Fix: Add unique features, native functionality
Guideline 5.1.1 - Data Collection
Issue: Missing privacy disclosures Fix: Complete App Privacy section accurately
Guideline 3.1.1 - In-App Purchase
Issue: Linking to external payment Fix: Use StoreKit for digital goods
Privacy Requirements
App Privacy Labels
Must disclose in App Store Connect:
- •Data collected (contact, location, etc.)
- •How data is used (analytics, advertising, etc.)
- •Whether data is linked to user
- •Whether data is used for tracking
Required Privacy Descriptions (Info.plist)
<key>NSCameraUsageDescription</key> <string>Take photos for your profile</string> <key>NSPhotoLibraryUsageDescription</key> <string>Select photos from your library</string> <key>NSLocationWhenInUseUsageDescription</key> <string>Find nearby locations</string> <key>NSUserTrackingUsageDescription</key> <string>To provide personalized ads</string>
Xcode Archive & Upload
Build Settings
PRODUCT_BUNDLE_IDENTIFIER = com.company.app MARKETING_VERSION = 1.0.0 CURRENT_PROJECT_VERSION = 1 CODE_SIGN_STYLE = Automatic DEVELOPMENT_TEAM = [Your Team ID]
Archive Process
- •Select "Any iOS Device" as destination
- •Product → Archive
- •Window → Organizer
- •Distribute App → App Store Connect
- •Upload
Common Upload Errors
| Error | Solution |
|---|---|
| Invalid binary | Check architectures, no simulator code |
| Missing icon | Add 1024x1024 icon to asset catalog |
| Invalid provisioning | Regenerate profiles |
| Entitlements mismatch | Match App ID capabilities |
Review Process
Timeline
- •Standard: 24-48 hours (usually)
- •Expedited: Request via Contact Us (emergencies only)
Responding to Rejections
- •Read rejection message carefully
- •Check specific guideline cited
- •Reply in Resolution Center
- •Be professional, provide context
- •Attach screenshots if helpful
Appeal Process
- •App Review Board appeal (last resort)
- •Provide detailed justification
- •Include competitor examples if relevant
Post-Launch
Monitor
- •Crash reports (Xcode Organizer)
- •User reviews (respond promptly)
- •Ratings trends
- •Download metrics
Iterate
- •Regular updates (every 4-6 weeks ideal)
- •Respond to feedback
- •A/B test screenshots (Search Ads)
- •Localize for new markets
Resources
See references/review-guidelines.md for complete guidelines. See references/aso-checklist.md for optimization checklist.