How to Get an App in the App Store : A Concise Guide

If you are building an app, publishing it on the App Store is the logical next step.

This enables iPhone and iPad users to download your app, allowing you to monetize your app or help popularize your brand.

But, the publishing process can be painful and frustrating, especially if you're new to app development.

You must follow the rules of the App Store to approve your submission and publish your app listing. One false move, and you may be back to square one.

Other app developers like yourself face these challenges. Fortunately for you, there is a way for you to increase the chances of your app's approval in the App Store.

This concise guide will show you how to get your app into the App Store successfully. Following the steps in this post will allow you to achieve your app goals with little to no problem.

This article in 30 seconds (TL;DR):#

• The easiest way to get your app in the appstore? Use AppMachine!

• Know what the App Store Review Guidelines contain. Following its standards helps the App Store review team to approve your listing.

• Submit your app by signing up for an App Developer account and creating its listing page.

• Optimize your listing and maximize downloads with a well-written description, eye-catching visuals and screenshots, and the inclusion of your target keywords in the page's content.

• Troubleshoot your app submission if it gets rejected by re-reviewing the guidelines to see if you missed anything.

The ease of AppMachine#

Before reading this entire guide, you should know there is an easier way of getting your app onto the Apple App Store. Create an app with AppMachine’s app builder! 

AppMachine implemented a tool which allows for automated app publishing onto the App Store. Whenever you are ready to publish your app, the tool will check if your app is in line with the Apple App Store guidelines. Your app won’t get uploaded if not all the requirements are met. The tool will then show you what you need to change and how.

The chance that your app gets approved on the first try has never been higher!

Understanding App Store Guidelines#

App Store Submission Process#

Familiarity with the Apple App Store submission process and a strong understanding of the app archive-associated guidelines will help ensure a smooth and successful app launch.

Creating an App Developer Account#

Now, let's start with the Apple developer program and submit your app.

First, you'll need to create an App Developer Account. Visit the Apple Developer site and register as a developer. This will require an Apple ID and an annual fee of $99.

In comparison, the Google Play Store requires you to create a Google Developer Account for $25. It's much more affordable than Apple. But if your target audience consists of Apple users, focus on getting your app published on the App Store first.

Once completed, you'll have access to the development tools, resources, and documentation necessary for app submission.

Preparing the App for Submission#

Before submitting your app, there are several aspects to prepare. You'll need to:

• Download and install the latest version of Xcode on your Mac, which is the official development environment for iOS apps.

• Want to save yourself a lot of trouble? Use AppMachine! There is no need to download Xcode because AppMachine's no code app builder takes care of all the programming!

• Ensure your app meets all the App Store Review Guidelines.

• Test your app thoroughly for any bugs, crashes, or other issues.

• Prepare your app's product page with required details such as the app name, icon, description, screenshots, app previews, and keywords.

Submitting the App for Review#

After preparing your app, follow these steps to submit it for review:

1. Sign in to App Store Connect using your Apple Developer account.

2. Click on "My Apps" and then the "+" button to create a new app listing.

3. Fill out all the required app information on the App Store Connect portal. Need help? Watch AppMachine's guide or browse through their Academy for clear and detailed instructions.

4. Upload your app's build using Xcode's "Prepare for Submission" section. Choose "Generic iOS Device" as the deployment target.

5. Once uploaded, fill out any remaining submission forms in App Store Connect dashboard and click "Submit for Review."

Getting the App Approved#

Apple's review team usually takes a few days to process your submission. They may ask for clarification or suggest changes if your app does not meet their guidelines.

Once your app is approved, it will become available on the App Store for users to download.

Remember to maintain and update a high-quality product regularly. Apple may remove apps that do not meet their ongoing quality standards. If you use AppMachine to build your iOS app we make sure your app is always up to date and complient.

Optimizing App Store Presence#

For users, downloading an app from the App Store is straightforward. Browsing through the store listing all the available apps or utilizing the search function can help them find desired apps to download or purchase.

Understanding the basics of getting an app on the App Store will benefit developers and users in their quest to create and enjoy mobile applications.

Perform ASO (App Store Optimization) Keyword Research#

Identify the keywords that potential users will likely use when searching for similar apps. Use online tools like KeywordTool.io to find relevant keywords.

Enter your topic keyword to find suggestions for optimizing your App Store listing. Consider the search volume and trends to help you decide which keywords to include.

Once you have a list, mention the keywords in different parts of your App Store listing.

Optimize the Title and Subtitle of Your App Page#

Include your brand and priority target keyword in the app name. This helps increase the chances of your App Store listing ranking high in search results.

Use a clear, concise, informative title and subtitle to convey your app's main value proposition. You have a maximum of 30 characters for iOS and 50 for Android.

Craft a Compelling App Description#

The description should clearly explain your app's features and benefits. The first few lines must effectively communicate what your app does. This is because users will see these in the search result preview.

Furthermore, use simple language and bullet points. This makes understanding your app's functionality much easier for users.

Do not mention in the description that your app is also available on Android or that the app is listed on the Google Play Store, as this may lead to your app being rejected. Why? The Google Play Store is a direct competitor and, logically, Apple doesn't like it when you use their platform to advertise apps which are available on a competitor's platform.

Finally, include your target keywords in the description. It helps the App Store know what your app is about. The App Store will then show your app listing on searches containing its keyword.

Do you know you can use AI to write your app description and help with ASO? In this guide about building your app with ChatGPT and DALL-E you'll find everything you need to know.

Feature Captivating Visuals#

Use high-quality images, screenshots, and videos to showcase your app's interface and features.

Maximize your app Store screenshots' appearance by uploading the image sizes shown on specific devices. For devices with a 5.5' screen size (iPhone 6s Plus, 7 Plus, and 8 Plus), the image must be 2208 x 1242 pixels.

Engaging visuals make your app stand out and enhance users' understanding of its default language and functionality. For instance, a well-designed app icon can make a strong first impression and increase downloads.

Generate Positive Reviews#

Positive reviews improve your app's credibility and influence your app store rankings.

Encourage users to review your iOS app store by providing a great user experience. Also, incorporating in-app prompts for ratings and reviews. Respond to feedback and address concerns to maintain a positive relationship with users.

Monitor Results#

Keep track of your app store listing's performance using analytics from the App Store Connect.

Metrics include downloads, user engagement, and conversions, among others.

Monitor changes in search rankings and adjust your ASO strategies accordingly. Continuously test and optimize your app store presence to maintain high visibility and attract more users.

Troubleshooting Common Issues#

A few common issues can delay your app's approval process in the App Store.

This section will cover some of these problems and offer solutions to help get your app into the App Store. Follow the steps for each issue and resubmit your application.

App Functionality and Performance#

Customers expect all the features mentioned in the app's marketing text and release notes to work as described. If not all the buttons and menu items within the application are fully functional, there's a chance Apple won't approve your app.

Another aspect affecting app functionality and performance is ensuring compatibility with the latest technologies. Apple may reject apps that fail to comply with such technological requirements.

App performance is also crucial for acceptance on the App Store. An app that doesn't function smoothly is an outright rejection from the App Store review team.

Incomplete Information#

Apple's review team expects clarity and precision regarding information about your app. These help them understand its purpose and functionality.

Here are some key aspects to consider ensuring your app's information is complete:

• Contact details – Include a valid email address, phone number, and website to enable the review team to reach out with any concerns or questions.

• Title – Choose a concise and meaningful name for your app that reflects its core purpose.

• Description – Craft a clear and informative description that outlines the app's features, benefits, and how it adds value to users.

• Specifications – Highlight any technical requirements or supported devices necessary for the app to work correctly.

• Support materials – Provide any additional documentation, video demonstrations, or user guides necessary to understand how your app works properly.

Paying close attention to these details will increase your chances of a successful submission.

Privacy Violations#

Apple holds high standards for protecting user data and believes privacy is a fundamental right, contributing to users' preference for the App Store.

In 2020, the App Review team rejected over 215,000 apps due to privacy violations. Reasons for such rejections vary, but some common ones include the following:

• Requesting more user data than necessary.

• Mishandling collected data.

• Sharing user data with unauthorized third parties.

• Not having a clear and accessible privacy policy.

To avoid getting your app rejected for privacy violations. Carefully consider how your app stores, and processes user data. Ensure that your app complies with Apple's guidelines on data handling and privacy policies.

Finally, provide a Privacy Policy link in your app's settings menu that users can easily access. Ensure that this link is functional and points to an up-to-date privacy policy. Doing so helps avoid potential rejections due to broken links or missing information.

Content Issues#

These issues can arise for various reasons, such as incomplete content, improper use of user-generated content, and failure to follow Apple's content guidelines.

Apps with incomplete content or placeholder elements are often perceived as developer neglect or insufficient effort. Apple expects apps to be complete and polished before submission, ensuring a seamless user experience.

User-generated content apps can be tricky to handle, as Apple is stringent about maintaining a safe environment for its users.

If you have an app like this, set up policies against objectionable content and proper content moderation mechanisms. Inform users about the policies regarding user-generated content upon registration to reduce the chances of App Store rejection.

Moreover, Apple has strict guidelines on content types prohibited or restricted in the App Store. Apps that include offensive or explicit material, gambling, and content encouraging illegal activities are more likely to face rejections.

And as mentioned before, do not bring up the fact that your app is also available on android or the Google Play Store. This will most likely lead to your app being rejected.

Resolving these issues should help increase your app's chances of App Store review team approval.

Technical Requirements#

One final major cause of app rejection is its inability to comply with App Store standards.

An app with bugs or crashes is a sign of poor developer skills. The App Store team will automatically reject the app if it encounters any issues or instability via rigorous testing.

Investing time in personally debugging and testing your app thoroughly helps you ensure a smooth user experience.

Additionally, follow the guidelines laid out by Apple regarding the safety and security aspects of the software. Any app without appropriate safety measures or poses a user risk will be rejected.

Please consider its various usability and functionality expectations to meet the App Store's technical requirements. Providing an official description and contact information is an example. Others include maintaining compatibility for different devices and offering proper access to all app features.

Conclusion#

Publishing an app on the App Store requires you to jump through multiple hoops before approval.

At this point, there's nothing more to do but follow the steps to a tee.

Upon submission, make the necessary changes if the App Store rejects it.

If approved, monitor your listing's performance. Analyze the data and find ways to get more users to download your app.

As you can see, things don't end after submitting your app to the App Store. The process requires you to work on your app to generate more downloads continuously.

Nonetheless, the rewards of more downloads and higher revenue should outweigh all the effort you put into it. And this can only happen by getting your app approved first.

Publishing your app and keeping it up to date with the guidelines may seem daunting. However, when you use AppMachine to build your app, there is no need for concern. By using AppMachine you gain access to an immense source of knowledge, consisting of video's, detailed instructions, guides and so much more!

Require more assistance? Get in touch with our support team. They have been assisting customers throughout the entire publishing process for over a decade!

Set a new standard when creating an app, together with AppMachine!

Additional Resources#

• App Store Connect app status overview

• How to use an iPhone app builder to build your iOS app | A step-by-step guide