App Review

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App review is the process of evaluating apps and app updates submitted to the App Store to ensure they are reliable, perform as expected, and follow Apple guidelines.

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Individual to organization account migration - how long does it take?
Hello, I submitted a request to migrate my developer membership from individual to organization over 6 days ago. Before submitting this request I was told it was a "quick process". When I ask for updates, all I get is "we have confirmed that the team is continuing to review your case and we will contact you again once they have provided an update." I never get any said updates. Not only can I not submit my app, I've been locked out of TestFlight, meaning I haven't been able to send the app to beta testers. I'm curious, has anyone done this migration and how long did it take?
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Flutter macOS app getting warnings related to privacy manifest
We are developing a Flutter application targeted for MacOS and Windows . We are using the FlutterMacOS and connectivity_plus packages in our app But whenever we are releasing a version to App Store we are getting the privacy manifest file missing for above 2 packages We tried to add xcPrivacy file inside the Runner Xcode project. But that doesn't solve the issue Adding the relevant lines from the warning email getting from App Store below "ITMS-91061: Missing privacy manifest - Your app includes “Contents/Frameworks/FlutterMacOS.framework/Versions/A/FlutterMacOS”, which includes Flutter, an SDK that was identified in the documentation as a commonly used third-party SDK. Starting February 12, 2025, if a new app includes a commonly used third-party SDK, or an app update adds a new commonly used third-party SDK, the SDK must include a privacy manifest file or you won’t be able to submit the app for review in App Store Connect. Please contact the provider of the SDK that includes this file to get an updated SDK version with a privacy manifest. For more details about this policy, including a list of SDKs that are required to include signatures and manifests, visit: https://developer.apple.com/support/third-party-SDK-requirements. ITMS-91061: Missing privacy manifest - Your app includes “Contents/Frameworks/connectivity_plus.framework/Versions/A/connectivity_plus”, which includes connectivity_plus, an SDK that was identified in the documentation as a commonly used third-party SDK. Starting February 12, 2025, if a new app includes a commonly used third-party SDK, or an app update adds a new commonly used third-party SDK, the SDK must include a privacy manifest file or you won’t be able to submit the app for review in App Store Connect. Please contact the provider of the SDK that includes this file to get an updated SDK version with a privacy manifest. For more details about this policy, including a list of SDKs that are required to include signatures and manifests, visit: https://developer.apple.com/support/third-party-SDK-requirements." Please suggest a solution to solve this issue as early as possible , because February 12th onwards we will get blocked to release new versions
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Appstore Rejection - Your app's binary includes the following call-to-action and/or URL that directs users to external mechanisms for purchases or subscriptions to be used in the app.
Recently we've faced an issue when submitting the new build for reviewal. It was rejected with following reasoning: Your app's binary includes the following call-to-action and/or URL that directs users to external mechanisms for purchases or subscriptions to be used in the app. Complain was related to phrase To discover our products please visit our website We're going to to rephrase it as Our website can help you to learn more about our products Will it solve the issue? According to ChatGPT following phrasing should not be considered a call-to-action. What's your opinions?
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App Rejected After Fixes – No Response from App Review Team
Hi all, Our app was initially rejected for 5 minor issues, which we promptly fixed and resubmitted within 24 hours. However, it was rejected again for 4 of the same issues, even though we 100% know they've been addressed. We submitted two follow-up messages to the App Review team via App Store Connect over 5 days ago but haven't received any acknowledgment or response. Does anyone know if we need to resubmit a new build with notes, or how long it typically takes to get a reply from App Review through App Store Connect? Thanks in advance!
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Rejected by Apple Under Guideline 5.0 (Legal) – Need Urgent Assistance for Approval
Hello Developers & Apple Team, Our app was recently rejected by Apple under Guideline 5.0 (Legal) due to concerns that it "enables mass texting, calling, and other spamming activities." However, our app strictly follows Apple’s guidelines and does not support mass messaging in any form. Key Features Ensuring Compliance: ✅ No Mass Messaging: Users must manually select contacts, preventing bulk messaging. ✅ Explicit User Consent: A pop-up confirmation appears every time a message is sent, ensuring user awareness. ✅ Regulatory Compliance: We are a Meta Business Partner, RCS Messaging Partner, and a registered Telemarketer, operating within legal frameworks. ✅ No Promotional Content: The app is strictly for communication and informational messages only—never for spam. 📢 Apple Review Team, please review our case and assist us in resolving this misunderstanding so we can move forward with our app approval as soon as possible. Has anyone else faced a similar rejection? Any suggestions on how we can best clarify our compliance to Apple? We appreciate any guidance from the community and Apple. 🚀
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Title: App Rejection Due to Guideline 5.1.2 – Ranking & Reward System Clarification Question:
Hello, My app was recently rejected under Guideline 5.1.2 (Legal - Privacy - Data Use and Sharing) for two reasons: App Tracking Transparency (ATT) Requirement: The app collects user interaction data but does not request tracking permission via ATT. If my app does not track users for advertising purposes, can I simply update the App Privacy information in App Store Connect, or do I still need to implement ATT? Primary Purpose of the App - Rewards System: My app is similar to TikTok, where users can post videos and receive points based on likes from other users. These points cannot be converted into real money but are used for gamification purposes like rankings and unlocking features. I want to clarify: Is a ranking and rewards system based on user engagement (likes, comments, activity) considered a violation of Guideline 5.1.2(i)? If the points cannot be exchanged for real-world value, would Apple still see this as a marketing-oriented incentive system? If the app allows users to earn points from watching ads, would that be an issue even if ads are optional and not the primary way to earn points? I’d appreciate any guidance on how to adjust the app to comply with App Store policies. Thank you!
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Checking if iOS application is being debugged
While I found a solution to check if debugger is attached to a process following this Q&A. My query is mostly with regards to distribution aspect to it. My use-case is to have this check as an SDK that is shipped as XCFramework. I have verified no submission error being generated if app including this code is submitted to TestFlight. However, I am unsure what will happen if app having this check is submitted to appstore. Will this submission be rejected? Or having this check in an appstore submitted app doesn't impact anything?
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Feb ’25
Rejected because of 4.3 (a) spam
Hello. I've been struggling to get through the app review. It's been 3 months of constantly improving and adding new features to the app and getting rejected. A week ago i got a call from apple review team, and they said that my app shares the similar binary with other apps. They don't tell the specififcs or details. My app is a vpn app that is written by me in flutter. The only native code i have is a library that i use to work with vpn. I changed the entirity of the library, but still can't get pass. Although, the only think left is the xray-core (https://github.com/XTLS/Xray-core) framework that implemented as .xcframework to use vless protocol. Does apple check .xcramework for similarity? i can't rewrite the framework, because it written in a go language.
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Feb ’25
IAP setup for Multiplatform: Free trial and lite version with sub and non sub
Hi, how would we setup our IAP for our usecase: Our product is to be Multiplatform: iOS, Android, Windows, Website. Our users are world over so our website will have multi-payment methods. We want to offer, by default, a 100% free Full version of our app to all users when they signup (on any platform and it should port over to any other platform with the same plans/duration too. Not that they signup on our website today and get 6 moths free then after 1 month login to iOS app with same email and have to re-start a new 6 month trial. Expect on iOS now it shows 5 months left, or vise versa too). After 6 months we revert their account to a lite version which has limited features (ex: In full version send unlimited messages, and in lite send messages to 10 people per week). If they choose they want the full features again, then they can subscribe to yearly plans or buy a long 5 year 1 time plan then again revert to lite after 5 years. Otherwise they can continue using the lite version forever. And again, if they subscribe to a sub or non sub plan on any platform, it should all port over to iOS too, or any plan changes made on iOS should port to the web/windows and android too. So: What is the setup required app store connect side/iOS app side to pass the IAP app store review for my use case?
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Jan ’25
App Store Rejection (4.3 – Design Spam) | Plinco - Unique Entertainment App Blocked Without Clear Reason
My app, Plinco, was rejected under App Review Guideline 4.3 – Design Spam, stating that it shares similarities with other apps available on the App Store. However, Plinco is a completely unique entertainment experience, designed with original assets, mechanics, and features. It allows users to customize various elements, including risk levels and configurations, ensuring a personalized and engaging experience. Special features like triple elements and the legendary golden mode introduce an extra layer of excitement and strategy. The app also offers high-quality visuals, immersive sound, and dynamic interactions, making each session feel fresh and unique. I conducted extensive research on the App Store and found no similar apps in the Entertainment category that match Plinco's concept and functionality. My app is built from scratch, without using pre-existing templates or duplicated content. Despite implementing multiple updates to address potential concerns, I have not received specific feedback clarifying the exact issue. I am fully committed to delivering a high-quality and original app and kindly request a more detailed explanation of the rejection, as well as a fair review of my submission. I appreciate your time and consideration.
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Jan ’25
Request for Assistance with App Icon Issue for USA Region Release
We have developed an application that we sell to clients, and with their accounts, we have successfully published the build on the App Store. We have all the legal rights, including trademarks for the app icon and other assets, which are fully documented and verifiable. The application was initially sold to a client with the agreement that it would be published exclusively in the Asia region, and the client is currently doing so. Now, the main issue arises: We wish to publish the same application for the USA region, using our organization’s account to serve U.S. users. However, our app submission is continually being rejected by the App Store review team, citing that the app icon is already in use and requesting a change. We are not in a position to change the app icon, as it is integral to the branding and trademark rights we hold. If anyone has experience with this issue or can provide guidance on how to proceed, your support would be greatly appreciated !!
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Jan ’25
Clarification on App Tracking Transparency (ATT) and Cookie Banner Integration
We are currently using Single Sign-On (SSO) for user authentication within our app, which is presented through a web view. This web view includes a cookie banner that allows users to either accept, reject all, or manage cookies. In some reviews, Apple suggests implementing App Tracking Transparency (ATT) if cookies are used. In other reviews, Apple may refer to guideline 5.1.2, which states: “Revise the app so that users are not required to enable tracking in order to access the app's content and functionality.” I have a few questions regarding the interaction between ATT and the cookie banner: 1 Is App Tracking Transparency required for the cookie banner?
If yes, iOS developers have no direct control over the cookies used on the webpage when the user selects "Ask App Not to Track" or "Allow". Despite this selection, the cookie banner still appears, prompting the user to accept or reject cookies. 2 How should App Tracking Transparency be implemented when a cookie banner is presented on a web page within an iOS app?
Since iOS developers do not have control over the cookies stored in the web view, is there a way to manage this interaction so that users aren't repeatedly prompted by the cookie banner after selecting their tracking preference in ATT? I would appreciate any guidance you can provide on how to properly implement ATT in this scenario, particularly when a web page within the app displays a cookie consent banner.
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Jan ’25
Unjustified rejection of my mobile application - Request for urgent reassessment
To the attention of the Apple team, I'm contacting you about the rejection of the « AGIR » application. I filled in an appeal form on 14 January, but received no response. I have reiterated this today. I would like to point out that your decision is based on a misinterpretation of our application. You say that AGIR violates Directive 1.7 on reporting criminal activity, but our application in no way allows you to report crimes. It simply provides a place for citizens to help each other. To make your reassessment easier, here is our account information: Team ID: C624G6U2P4 Developer ID: 6e7ed795-4584-4135-b1a2-d5c6afe7d498 Application submission identifier: 3f884c96-6961-4e7e-994d-2aafcdd18b71 It is essential that this error is corrected quickly, as our application fully complies with your guidelines, including guideline 1.7 on reporting criminal activity. The AGIR application is not designed to report criminal activity and therefore does not contravene this directive. As stated in guideline 1.7: « Applications for reporting suspected criminal activity must involve local law enforcement and may only be offered in countries or regions where such involvement is active. » The AGIR application neither allows nor encourages the reporting of criminal activities. On the contrary, it expressly informs its users that the management of crimes or offences is the exclusive responsibility of law enforcement agencies. This is clearly and transparently stated in several clauses of its General Terms and Conditions of Use (GTCU) and in the messages displayed when using it. For example: « [AGIR] can in no way replace emergency and rescue programmes (police, fire brigade, medical emergencies) » ; « Under no circumstances should the Application be considered as an alternative to professional rescue services (police, fire brigade, emergency medical services, etc.). Users are strongly encouraged to contact these services as a matter of priority in the event of a dangerous situation » ; « The AGIR application is a complementary tool designed to reinforce collective vigilance, but should never be used as the sole means of managing an emergency situation, even less so if the integrity or life of a person is at stake. For this reason, Users are reminded that they must always remain vigilant when using the application » ; The AGIR application is a citizen's self-help tool, aimed solely at reinforcing mutual aid and collective vigilance in everyday situations. It does not propose to report criminal acts such as assassinations, hold-ups or any other crime. These situations are expressly excluded from the scope of use of the application. Users are reminded that in the event of immediate danger or a serious emergency, they should contact the relevant services directly, and not use the application as a response to such situations. As a concrete example, AGIR can be used in a situation where a young girl, feeling annoyed by the whistling of strangers in the street, activates an alert on the application. This alert would enable people nearby to accompany her to make her feel more at ease. The aim is to foster a sense of solidarity and mutual assistance in situations where professional help is neither required nor appropriate. The data associated with alerts (in particular the time and place at which they are triggered) is processed securely and, if necessary, can be passed on to the relevant authorities in compliance with the applicable laws. Applications similar to AGIR, such as « App-Elles » (available on your platform), which offer support functionalities in these contexts, are currently accessible and, like our application, comply with your guidelines. Our self-help solutions co-exist with your policies. AGIR is simply a technological formalisation of a self-help mechanism that would naturally exist between citizens in such situations. I would therefore ask you to reconsider your decision and confirm that the AGIR application complies with the Apple Store guidelines, in particular guideline 1.7, as the application does not contravene your rules. I look forward to hearing from you and remain at your disposal should you require any further information or clarification. Thank you in advance. Yours faithfully, Nathan B. Creator of the AGIR application Ps: Here are a few screenshots of the terms of use for the AGIR application in French I
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Jan ’25
Rejected for Guideline 4.3a - Spam
Hello, I posted this on one of the other forums, but I think it fits better here. One of our apps has been rejected under Guideline 4.3 for spam. Our studio has been on the App Store for 10+ years and this particular app has been available for over two years without previous issue. We have submitted a couple responses to the original rejection outlining why we think our app is unique and not spam and unfortunately we have been rejected. I have also submitted an appeal and requested a phone call. This is compounded by a live issue happening in our app right now that requires a build to unblock. I added that to our review notes for submission but was rejected. We believe we have been flagged as spam in error and would like to release builds to our active players ASAP to get them unblocked and provide further value to them. Beyond submitting an appeal and requesting a call is there anything else I can do?
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Jan ’25
Rejected for Guideline 4.3 - Spam
Hello, One of our apps has been rejected under Guideline 4.3 for spam. Our studio has been on the App Store for 10+ years and this particular app has been available for over two years without previous issue. We have submitted a couple responses to the original rejection outlining why we think our app is unique and not spam and unfortunately we have been rejected. I have also submitted an appeal and requested a phone call. This is compounded by a live issue happening in our app right now that requires a build to unblock. I added that to our review notes for submission but was rejected. We believe we have been flagged as spam in error and would like to release builds to our active players ASAP to get them unblocked and provide further value to them. Beyond submitting an appeal and requesting a call is there anything else I can do?
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Jan ’25
A functional link to the Terms of Use (EULA). If you are using the standard Apple Terms of Use (EULA), include a link to the Terms of Use in the App Description
For all the people who have the issue of 'A functional link to the Terms of Use (EULA). If you are using the standard Apple Terms of Use (EULA), include a link to the Terms of Use in the App Description': If the app mentions binary, they must include a link to the Terms and Conditions within the app (source code). If it mentions metadata, they need to go to Apple Store Connect, in the version they are going to submit for review, and at the end of the review field, add the link to the standard Terms of Use, if they are using them This worked for me
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Jan ’25
App moderation process problem
Hello, My app was rejected because of App Review Guideline 4.3 – Design Spam. The response I received states: “We noticed your app shares similar features, interface design, and functionality with other apps available on the App Store. Apps that duplicate content or functionality from other apps without adding significant value or unique user experiences are considered spam and will not be approved for distribution.” I developed Plinking Platform Rise, a reaction and accuracy game where players control a platform to balance a ball while avoiding obstacles. The game becomes more challenging with each level, and a dark mode adds an exciting element by reducing visibility and requiring greater precision. I’ve tried multiple times to understand the exact reasons for this rejection and made several updates to address potential issues, but all my efforts have been ignored by App Review. None of the changes I implemented led to a resolution. This is the first app I’ve submitted to the App Store, and I developed it independently. I haven’t copied any design, functionality, or gameplay from existing apps. While my app uses Unity, which might result in some similarities, I’ve worked hard to create a unique experience with original gameplay, visuals, and mechanics. I can’t identify any apps that closely resemble mine, but the rejection suggests otherwise. I would appreciate any advice on how to resolve this issue and demonstrate the originality of my app. Kind regards, Ihor Koval
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Jan ’25
Notice of Termination. How to contact Apple and restore my account and apps?
Received email from Apple with title "notification of apple Developer Program License Agreement (“DPLA”) violation." We're writing to inform you that your company isn't in compliance with the Apple Developer Program License Agreement (DPLA). Section 11.2 (Termination) states: (g) if You engage, or encourage others to engage, in any misleading, fraudulent, improper, unlawful or dishonest act relating to this Agreement, including, but not limited to, misrepresenting the nature of Your Application (e.g., hiding or trying to hide functionality from Apple’s review, falsifying consumer reviews for Your Application, engaging in payment fraud, etc.). Be aware that manipulating App Store chart rankings, user reviews or search index may result in the loss of your developer program membership. Please address this issue promptly. Same day i response that do not did any actions from this list or similar to them, describing every point. Next day i received response Thank you for your reply. As noted in the original notification, manipulating App Store chart rankings, user reviews, or search index is a violation of the Apple Developer Program License Agreement (DPLA) and may result in the loss of your Developer program membership. We suggest you conduct internal investigations to ensure you and any third-parties you may work with are in compliance with the DPLA and App Store Review Guidelines. We also encourage you to closely monitor your app activities. If you notice any unusual activity in the future, please follow these steps: Sign in to App Store Connect > Contact Us > Report a Concern > Report a Fraud Concern. We are unable to provide additional information at this time. Thank you for your efforts to make the App Store a safe and enjoyable experience for users and a great opportunity for all developers to be successful. I made response, that i checked everything, only one problem was in backend functionality working badly, but already fixed it (it was not about Apple license rules, it is just one of app functionalities returns error instead of answer. And it was fixed) Also i asked if current problem is solved and write emails if something else needs to be fixed. But no any responses was, and in 20 days i received email "Notice of Termination" Pursuant to Section 3.2(f) of the ADP Agreement, you agreed that you would not “commit any act intended to interfere with any of the Apple Software or Services, the intent of this Agreement, or Apple’s business practices including, but not limited to, taking actions that may hinder the performance or intended use of the App Store, Custom App Distribution, TestFlight, Xcode Cloud, Ad Hoc distribution, or the Program…” Apple has good reason to believe that you violated this Section due to documented indications of fraudulent conduct associated with your account. ... "AppStoreConnect -> Contact Us" page not working, because i cannot log in for it. Please help to resolve this problem: How to contact with apple in a fast way to describe that i did not do any actions that are not in compliance and find a way to fix and restore account and app. App used Auto-renewable subscriptions, so we have maximum 1 week to restore app before subscriptions automatically canceling At least, how to get payments for subscriptions that was already collected by app. Apple wrote "If applicable, no further payments will be made to you pursuant to Section 7.1 of the Paid Applications agreement (Schedules 2 and 3 to the ADP Agreement)." But i ready to prove and discuss that I am not at fault, and if there is fault in the third-party companies promoting my app - the promotion will be stoped
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Jan ’25
Problem with Guideline 4.3(a) - Design - Spam
Hello, My app was rejected because of App Review Guideline 4.3 – Design Spam. The response I received states: “We noticed your app shares similar features, interface design, and functionality with other apps available on the App Store. Apps that duplicate content or functionality from other apps without adding significant value or unique user experiences are considered spam and will not be approved for distribution.” I developed Plinking Platform Rise, a reaction and accuracy game where players control a platform to balance a ball while avoiding obstacles. The game becomes more challenging with each level, and a dark mode adds an exciting element by reducing visibility and requiring greater precision. I’ve tried multiple times to understand the exact reasons for this rejection and made several updates to address potential issues, but all my efforts have been ignored by App Review. None of the changes I implemented led to a resolution. This is the first app I’ve submitted to the App Store, and I developed it independently. I haven’t copied any design, functionality, or gameplay from existing apps. While my app uses Unity, which might result in some similarities, I’ve worked hard to create a unique experience with original gameplay, visuals, and mechanics. I can’t identify any apps that closely resemble mine, but the rejection suggests otherwise. I would appreciate any advice on how to resolve this issue and demonstrate the originality of my app. Kind regards, Ihor Koval
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Jan ’25
Problem with App Review
Hello, My app was rejected because of App Review Guideline 4.3 – Design Spam. I developed Dynasty of Sic Bo, an exciting game that combines elements of roulette and dice rolling. Players can bet on different dice combinations, testing their luck and strategy to win virtual riches. The game is designed to be simple and enjoyable for beginners while still engaging for experienced players. I’ve tried multiple times to understand the exact reasons for this rejection, but all my efforts have been ignored by App Review. None of the changes I implemented resolved the issue, and I still don’t know what specifically needs to be addressed. The app’s concept, gameplay, and design are entirely original, and I haven’t copied or reused content from other apps. While the game shares a general theme of dice-based gambling, I worked hard to create a unique experience with polished visuals, engaging mechanics, and a dynamic atmosphere. I don’t understand how to proceed or demonstrate the originality of my app, as I can’t identify any apps that are identical to mine. I would really appreciate any advice or insights on how to resolve this issue. Kind regards, Nick Bohdan Malashina
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Jan ’25