Apple App Certification

The following sections summarize the guidelines and requirements from Apple to develop an iOS or tvOS app:

• App Guidelines Checklist and Considerations
• App Requirements Checklist and Considerations

Refer to App Submission Checklist and Considerations when you are ready to submit the app for certification.

App Guidelines Checklist and Considerations

	Guideline
	Development Guidelines have been followed.
	Design Guidelines have been followed.
	Brand and Marketing Guidelines have been followed.

While these are the main guidelines, Apple also outlines some additional tips to consider while developing your application:

• App Extension Programming Guide
• iOS Data Storage Guidelines
• macOS File System Documentation
• iTunes Connect Developer Guide
• tvOS Human Interface Guidelines
• watchOS Human Interface Guidelines
• Apple Pay Identity Guidelines
• Add to Apple Wallet Guidelines
• Guidelines for Using Apple Trademarks and Copyrights

App Requirements Checklist and Considerations

Ensure you complete the requirements in each of the following areas.

	Requirement
	Safety Requirements have been met.
	Performance Requirements have been met.
	Business Requirements have been met.
	Design Requirements have been met.
	Legal Requirements have been met.

App Submission Checklist and Considerations

	Guideline
	You have reviewed App Store Review Guidelines.

Apple also outlines some additional information for consideration after submission:

• Test your app for crashes and bugs.
• Ensure that all app information and metadata is complete and accurate.
• Update your contact information in case App Review needs to reach you.
• Provide an active demo account and login information, plus any other hardware or resources that might be needed to review your app (for example, a sample QR code).
• Enable back-end services so that they’re live and accessible during review.
• Include detailed explanations of non-obvious features and IAPs in the App Review notes, including supporting documentation where appropriate. If they’re not able to access part of your app because it’s geo-locked or otherwise restricted, provide a link to a video of the functionality.
• Check that your app continues to adhere to the requirements and guidelines of an App Store app.

Once you’ve submitted your app and metadata in iTunes Connect and you’re in the review process, here are some things to keep in mind:

• Timing: App Review examines your app as soon as they can. Learn more about App Review.
• Status Updates: The current status of your app is reflected in iTunes Connect, so you can follow your progress from there.
• Expedite Requests: If you have a critical timing issue, you can request an expedited review. Respect your fellow developers by seeking expedited review only when you truly need it.
• Release Date: If your release date is set for the future, the app does not appear on the App Store until that date, even if it is approved by App Review. And remember that it can take up to 24 hours for your app to appear on all selected storefronts.
• Rejections: Their goal is to apply guidelines fairly and consistently, but nobody’s perfect. If your app has been rejected and you have questions or would like to provide additional information, use the Resolution Center to communicate directly with the App Review team. This may help get your app on the store, and it can help Apple improve the App Review process or identify a need for clarity in their policies. If you still disagree with the outcome, submit an appeal.