Submitting an app to Apple’s App Store is an important milestone, but many apps face rejection during the review process. Apple enforces strict guidelines to ensure quality, security, and a seamless user experience. This guide provides a merchant-friendly overview of the most common reasons for rejection, what’s often overlooked, and how to fix them.
Apps that crash or contain serious bugs are immediately rejected.
Fix: Test your app extensively on multiple devices and iOS versions. Fix all crashes and major bugs before submission.
Slow loading times, laggy navigation, or unresponsive screens can result in rejection.
Fix: Optimize performance, reduce heavy main-thread operations, and test for responsiveness.
All links including support, privacy policy, and Terms & Conditions must work.
Fix: Verify every link inside the app and in the App Store listing. Replace placeholders or incorrect URLs.
Apps must function properly across Apple’s latest devices and iOS versions without draining resources.
Fix: Test on multiple iPhone and iPad models to ensure smooth performance and prevent overheating.
Missing metadata, contact info, or setup instructions can delay or stop review.
Fix: Fill in every field accurately in App Store Connect, including contact and demo credentials if needed.
Apps with “coming soon” pages or dummy data are marked incomplete.
Fix: Replace placeholders with live, working content.
All digital goods must use Apple’s in-app purchase system.
Fix: For digital products, integrate Apple’s in-app purchases. Do not redirect users to external payments.
Enabling Apple Pay incorrectly can cause rejections.
Fix: If you require Apple Pay, contact the Superfans Support Team to enable and configure it properly before submission.
Demo or limited-feature apps are not accepted.
Fix: Submit a complete, production-ready app with full functionality.
Apps over 4 GB or that drain battery or memory excessively may be rejected.
Fix: Optimize performance and reduce file sizes. Test real-world usage on multiple devices.
Apple does not allow unfinished or test versions on the App Store.
Fix: Use TestFlight for beta testing. Submit only the final production build.
Apps that duplicate others’ functionality or design are rejected.
Fix: Maintain originality and unique branding.
Pure web views or site wrappers without native features are rejected.
Fix: Add meaningful native features beyond web links. Replace category web links with proper in-app navigation.
Descriptions must clearly explain what the app sells and its purpose.
Fix:
Avoid personal stories or company history.
Do not include the app name in the description text.
Remove repetitive keywords or phrases.
Check for grammatical and formatting errors.
Use clear, complete sentences describing your products and app functionality.
Confusing layouts, poor navigation, or inconsistent design can lead to rejection.
Fix: Follow Apple’s Human Interface Guidelines for layout, icons, and interactions.
Apps that mirror websites or contain minimal content are not accepted.
Fix: Offer original, meaningful, and complete content.
Any reference to Android or other platforms is prohibited.
Fix: Remove all references to Android or other OS names from the app and metadata.
Screenshots must reflect the actual app.
Fix: Use only accurate visuals and avoid keyword stuffing or false claims.
Submitting many similar or template-based apps can cause rejection.
Fix: Submit unique apps with distinct branding and features.
Apps containing duplicate or spammy content are flagged.
Fix: Review your app and remove any repeated, placeholder, or junk content.
Overly intrusive or misleading ads cause rejection.
Fix: Limit disruptive ads and comply with Apple’s advertising standards.
Profanity or offensive wording in metadata or descriptions is prohibited.
Fix: Remove all explicit language and adult references from text, titles, and visuals.
Adult material, images, or adult-themed products (including toys) are not allowed.
Fix: Remove all explicit or adult-oriented content from both the app and descriptions.
Apple prohibits apps selling or promoting tobacco and CBD products.
Fix: Remove such products, imagery, or mentions from the app and its metadata.
If your app allows user content, you must have moderation tools.
Fix: Add filtering, blocking, and reporting functionality.
Apps targeting children must meet special standards.
Fix: No tracking, external links, or non-kid-safe ads. Implement parental gates if needed.
Offering incentives for reviews is not allowed.
Fix: Never reward or prompt users in exchange for ratings.
Every app must include an accessible privacy policy in the app and App Store listing.
Fix: Provide a valid privacy policy link that loads properly.
Apps must clearly state what data is collected and how it is used.
Fix: Include transparent disclosures that comply with GDPR/CCPA and Apple’s privacy standards.
Sensitive user data must be encrypted and justified.
Fix: Encrypt data in transit and at rest, and only request necessary permissions.
Tracking users without ATT consent is prohibited.
Fix: Use Apple’s ATT prompt before any form of tracking.
Spammy or unsolicited push notifications are not permitted.
Fix: Send push notifications responsibly and only with user consent.
Private or undocumented APIs cannot be used.
Fix: Use only Apple-approved public APIs.
Apps infringing copyrights, trademarks, or local laws are blocked.
Fix: Secure all necessary rights and licenses before submission.
Incorrect age ratings in App Store Connect can lead to rejection.
Fix: Assign accurate age ratings based on app content.
Apps allowing users to create accounts must also provide an in-app option to delete them.
Fix: Add a clear in-app method for users to delete their accounts and associated data.
If Apple requests changes and you ignore them, repeated rejections will follow.
Fix: Respond promptly to every Apple review note with explanations or updated builds.
Certain content such as gambling, finance, or health requires licensing.
Fix: Obtain proper certifications and provide them to Apple before review.
If the app name or brand does not match your registered Apple Developer account, Apple may reject it.
Fix: Provide an authorization letter on company letterhead, signed by the owner, confirming ownership of the app.
Apps built on Superfans require product availability verification.
Fix: In your Shopify dashboard, ensure that all products are available for Superfans before submission.
Test thoroughly for stability, speed, and usability.
Verify all links, metadata, and screenshots.
Provide unique, high-value, and compliant content.
Follow Apple’s privacy, design, and monetization policies.
Double-check licenses, legal compliance, and age ratings.
Use TestFlight for beta testing, not the App Store.
Remove any placeholder or test material before submission.
Review Timing: Reviews usually take 24-48 hours but may be longer for complex apps.
Track Status: Monitor progress in App Store Connect.
Expedite Requests: You can request an expedited review for critical launches (used sparingly).
Rejections & Communication: Use App Store Connect to communicate directly with Apple reviewers.
Appeals: If you disagree with a decision, file an appeal through the Resolution Center.
Bug Fixes: Post-release bug-fix updates are usually approved quickly unless legal or safety concerns apply.
Apple Developer Support
For issues related to App Store guidelines, review delays, or technical rejections:
https://developer.apple.com/contact/
