How to Submit Your Mobile App to the Apple App Store and Google Play

Launching a mobile app is a milestone. However, ensuring your app reaches users on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store involves a structured submission process. Below is a comprehensive step-by-step guide for preparing and submitting your app, along with common reasons apps get rejected and how to avoid them.

If you're still in the development phase or need professional help, explore our mobile app development services for expert support from start to launch.

Pre-Submission Checklist

• Fully tested and debugged mobile application (Android/iOS)
• App screenshots in required resolutions
• App description, title, keywords, and promotional content
• Privacy policy and terms of use (hosted online)
• App icon (1024x1024 pixels, no transparency for iOS)
• Demo or test account login credentials (if required)
• Backend server stability and production-ready APIs
• Developer accounts on Apple Developer Program and Google Play Console

How to Submit an App to the Apple App Store

1. Enroll in the Apple Developer Program
   Join the program at developer.apple.com/programs. This is required for accessing App Store Connect and distributing apps. Annual fee: $99.
2. Configure Your App in App Store Connect
   Log in to App Store Connect and create a new app record:
   • App name, bundle ID, and SKU
   • Primary language and category
   • Privacy policy URL
3. Prepare and Archive Your App Using Xcode
   Ensure your app uses the latest SDK and passes all build validations. Then archive and upload the build using Xcode.
4. Fill in App Information
   Provide the app’s description, keywords, support URL, marketing URL, version info, and upload screenshots for all targeted device sizes (iPhone SE, iPhone 14 Pro Max, iPad, etc.).
5. Set Pricing and Availability
   Choose your app’s price tier and the countries where it will be available.
6. Submit for Review
   After selecting the uploaded build, submit your app for Apple’s review. This process may take 1–3 days. You’ll receive updates via email.

Common Apple App Store Rejection Reasons

• Incomplete app functionality or broken features
• Violation of Apple’s Human Interface Guidelines
• Use of private APIs or deprecated SDKs
• Unclear data usage disclosures or missing privacy policy
• Apps requiring login with no demo credentials provided
• Inaccurate metadata or promotional content

How to Submit an App to Google Play Store

1. Create a Developer Account
   Visit Google Play Console and register for a developer account. One-time fee: $25.
2. Create a New App
   Choose your app's name, default language, and specify whether it's an app or a game. Set whether it's free or paid.
3. Prepare Store Listing
   Add the app title, short and full description, app category, content rating questionnaire, and contact details. Upload app screenshots, a high-resolution icon (512x512), and a feature graphic (1024x500).
4. Upload the App Bundle
   Use Android Studio to generate a signed release APK or AAB file, then upload it to the "Release" section of the Play Console.
5. Set Up App Content
   Fill out data safety declarations, permissions used, target audience, and provide a link to your privacy policy.
6. Publish the Release
   Once everything is filled out correctly, you can submit your app to Google for review. Review time is usually between 1–7 days.

Common Google Play Store Rejection Reasons

• Misleading app title or keywords (keyword stuffing)
• Use of copyrighted material without permission
• Non-compliance with data safety requirements
• Permissions not justified (e.g., requesting SMS access without clear use case)
• Low-quality or misleading screenshots
• App crashing or freezing during review

Tips for a Smooth App Submission

• Test thoroughly on physical devices
• Prepare accurate, helpful documentation
• Avoid using placeholder text or dummy content
• Ensure backend services are stable and publicly accessible
• Write honest, clear app descriptions and disclosures

Submitting an app is a crucial step in your mobile journey. To avoid delays and rejections, ensure everything is well-prepared and reviewed before pressing "submit." If you need expert help developing or submitting your app, our team at Superior Web Solutions is here to support your launch strategy.