| name | ios-app-store-publishing |
| description | Publish iOS apps to the App Store successfully. Use when preparing app submission, optimizing App Store listing (ASO), handling review guidelines, managing certificates/provisioning, creating screenshots, writing descriptions, or resolving rejection issues. Covers the complete publishing workflow from Xcode to App Store Connect. |
iOS App Store Publishing
Complete guide to successfully publish your iOS app to the App Store.
Pre-Submission Checklist
App Requirements
Technical Requirements
Content Requirements
App Store Connect Setup
App Information
App Name: [Unique, max 30 characters]
Subtitle: [Max 30 characters, keyword-rich]
Bundle ID: com.yourcompany.appname
SKU: [Unique identifier, any format]
Primary Language: [Your main market]
Version Information
Version: 1.0.0 (semantic versioning)
Build: Auto-incremented integer
What's New: [Release notes for updates]
App Store Optimization (ASO)
Title & Subtitle
- Use primary keyword in title
- Subtitle for secondary keywords
- Avoid keyword stuffing
Keywords Field (100 chars)
Format: keyword1,keyword2,keyword3 (no spaces after commas)
Tips:
- Use singular forms (app searches both)
- Avoid duplicating title/subtitle words
- Include common misspellings
- Research competitor keywords
Description
First Paragraph (Above the fold):
- Hook with main value proposition
- Include primary keywords naturally
Features Section:
• Feature 1 - Benefit explanation
• Feature 2 - Benefit explanation
• Feature 3 - Benefit explanation
Social Proof:
"Quote from user/press" - Source
Call to Action:
Download now and experience [benefit]!
Screenshots
| Device | Size | Slots |
|---|
| iPhone 6.7" | 1290 x 2796 | Up to 10 |
| iPhone 6.5" | 1284 x 2778 | Up to 10 |
| iPhone 5.5" | 1242 x 2208 | Up to 10 |
| iPad Pro 12.9" | 2048 x 2732 | Up to 10 |
Best Practices:
- First 3 screenshots most important
- Show key features, not onboarding
- Add captions/callouts
- Use device frames (optional)
- Localize for major markets
App Preview Videos
- 15-30 seconds optimal
- No hands/devices in frame
- Start with impact moment
- Include captions (often muted)
Common Rejection Reasons
Guideline 2.1 - App Completeness
Issue: Crashes, placeholder content, incomplete features
Fix: Thorough testing, remove "Coming Soon" features
Guideline 2.3 - Accurate Metadata
Issue: Screenshots don't match app, misleading description
Fix: Update screenshots, honest descriptions
Guideline 4.2 - Minimum Functionality
Issue: App is too simple, web wrapper, template
Fix: Add unique features, native functionality
Guideline 5.1.1 - Data Collection
Issue: Missing privacy disclosures
Fix: Complete App Privacy section accurately
Guideline 3.1.1 - In-App Purchase
Issue: Linking to external payment
Fix: Use StoreKit for digital goods
Privacy Requirements
App Privacy Labels
Must disclose in App Store Connect:
- Data collected (contact, location, etc.)
- How data is used (analytics, advertising, etc.)
- Whether data is linked to user
- Whether data is used for tracking
Required Privacy Descriptions (Info.plist)
<key>NSCameraUsageDescription</key>
<string>Take photos for your profile</string>
<key>NSPhotoLibraryUsageDescription</key>
<string>Select photos from your library</string>
<key>NSLocationWhenInUseUsageDescription</key>
<string>Find nearby locations</string>
<key>NSUserTrackingUsageDescription</key>
<string>To provide personalized ads</string>
Xcode Archive & Upload
Build Settings
PRODUCT_BUNDLE_IDENTIFIER = com.company.app
MARKETING_VERSION = 1.0.0
CURRENT_PROJECT_VERSION = 1
CODE_SIGN_STYLE = Automatic
DEVELOPMENT_TEAM = [Your Team ID]
Archive Process
- Select "Any iOS Device" as destination
- Product → Archive
- Window → Organizer
- Distribute App → App Store Connect
- Upload
Common Upload Errors
| Error | Solution |
|---|
| Invalid binary | Check architectures, no simulator code |
| Missing icon | Add 1024x1024 icon to asset catalog |
| Invalid provisioning | Regenerate profiles |
| Entitlements mismatch | Match App ID capabilities |
Review Process
Timeline
- Standard: 24-48 hours (usually)
- Expedited: Request via Contact Us (emergencies only)
Responding to Rejections
- Read rejection message carefully
- Check specific guideline cited
- Reply in Resolution Center
- Be professional, provide context
- Attach screenshots if helpful
Appeal Process
- App Review Board appeal (last resort)
- Provide detailed justification
- Include competitor examples if relevant
Post-Launch
Monitor
- Crash reports (Xcode Organizer)
- User reviews (respond promptly)
- Ratings trends
- Download metrics
Iterate
- Regular updates (every 4-6 weeks ideal)
- Respond to feedback
- A/B test screenshots (Search Ads)
- Localize for new markets
Resources
See references/review-guidelines.md for complete guidelines.
See references/aso-checklist.md for optimization checklist.
External Links
