Tips to Keep in Mind to Avoid App Store Rejection

As the number of Mobile Apps grows, so do the associated security concerns and the users' apprehension. And that is why app approval processes are now stricter than ever, especially for the App Store.  

For the sake of users' privacy and security, apps are reviewed against stringent protocols and standards before they make it to the App Store for public use. It is a great way to maintain a healthy app ecosystem. 

Even though this is a boon for users, it can become a bane for businesses that aren't as vigilant while developing an app. That is why keeping up with the protocols and standards is vital- to avoid rejection and the unnecessary delays, added costs, and anxiety attached to it.  

Here are 10 Tips to Keep in Mind to Avoid App Store Rejection: 

Monitor Content: Apple has zero tolerance for inappropriate content and disapproves of any app that doesn't abide by its policies and guidelines. Ensure that your in-app content is not discriminatory or offensive. Additionally, use content filtering or reporting mechanisms to tackle inappropriate user-generated content to stay off App Store's radar. 

Keep it Unique: Apps that are revamps or copies of already existing apps are discouraged and disapproved by the App Store. Your app should be unique and have features that distinguish it from its contemporaries. Use new ideas, distinctive features, original UI and icon designs to stay unique.  

Consistency across Devices: Opt for an adaptive layout to ensure your App runs smoothly across Apple devices like iPhone and iPad. The functionality, look and feel, performance and experience should be consistent. Also, optimize the images so that there is no pixelation. Not only does this allow your App to get approved, but also ensures it delivers a good user experience. 

Privacy Policy: Delineate a Privacy Policy. Stay transparent and share all the information on how your App collects and uses personal data. Even if your App doesn't collect data, you need to have a Privacy Policy, and it should be in compliance with the laws. The Privacy Policy should be accessible within the App and App Page. It goes a long way to reassure users that their privacy is protected and in safe hands.  

More Emphasis on Privacy: Apple has always been vocal about its stringent privacy rules. It is what has allowed Apple to set itself apart and build a loyal user base. That is why how your App tracks, stores and shares data with third-party entities is of utmost importance. Breaching Privacy rules is a major no. Be transparent; seek users' permission before sharing data and disclosing its use.  

Resolve Bugs and Crash Issues: Test before the big test- App Store's review process. Conduct thorough performance and stress testing before ever submitting your App for review. Test across devices, scenarios, and standards. Identify bugs and possibilities of crashes and tackle them with due diligence. In any case, do not submit your App unless you're sure of its performance.  

Minimize the Load Time: Not only is a longer load time unacceptable by users, but also App Store. Apps with longer than bearable load times get rejected on the basis of bad user experience. Simplify your UI, optimize your code, enhance your images and speed up the load time up to 2 seconds. Even if your App is worth the wait, it won't make the cut if it isn't fast enough.  

Update your App's Metadata: Before submitting your App for review, update all the information, including App Description, Privacy Policy, Ratings, Reviews, etc. Missing, inaccurate or misleading Metadata will not get you anywhere, especially not in the App Store. Keep everything as updated and transparent as you can.  

Nail the UI: Apple is home to Apps with the most evolved and well-designed UI, and if you want to be on the list, you need to keep up with its standards. A user-friendly UI will give you an edge and increase the chances of your App's approval by the App Store. Read More on this here.  

It all comes down to the UX: But will the user find your Mobile App valuable? If the answer is yes, you have nothing to worry about (except all the guidelines of course). Make sure your App is easy to use and navigate, interactive and engaging. Read More on this here.  

In addition to these tips, we also recommend you to read through App Store's guidelines and abide by them!  

 Want to know more about App Stores' approval process to evade your fear of rejection? Consult our team! 

At Hashbrown, we have experience building custom mobile apps that fall in line with the protocols and standards required to get approved by the App Store. We have worked for clients from diverse industries in the most cost and time-efficient way, and you can be the next.  

View Our Extensive Portfolio of Mobile Apps and explore more about Our Mobile Development Capabilities!