Getting your iOS app live is an exciting milestone, but many developers feel overwhelmed by the steps involved in publishing. Apple has strict guidelines, detailed requirements, and a structured review process, which makes it important to know exactly how to publish your app on the App Store without facing delays or rejections.
This guide will walk you through everything from preparing your app build to setting up App Store Connect, uploading screenshots, adding metadata, and submitting your app for review.
Whether you are launching your first product or updating an existing one, understanding the correct process ensures a smooth submission. With clear steps and best practices, you’ll learn how to upload an app to App Store confidently and get your app ready for millions of iOS users.
After completing the mobile app development process your app is ready to publish on App Store. But before that you must prepare several accounts, files, certificates, and documents. Apple follows strict rules to maintain quality and security, so being prepared helps you avoid delays, errors, or rejections.
If you want to publish an app on App Store for the first time or upload your app on App Store after updates, the requirements stay the same. Here’s everything you need in detail.
To upload an app to App Store, you need an active Apple Developer Program account.
Cost: $99/year
Required for: Certificates, provisioning profiles, App Store Connect access, app review submission, TestFlight, and distribution.
Without this account, you cannot submit an app to App Store, even if your app is ready. If your app is being launched under a company or startup, you must create an Organization account instead of an individual one.
This is one of the most technical parts of preparing to publish an iOS app on Apple Store. Apple requires all iOS apps to be securely signed before uploading. You must configure:
App ID: A unique identifier for your app (e.g., com.companyname.appname).
Distribution Certificate: Used to sign your app and verify that it comes from a trusted developer.
Provisioning Profile (App Store Distribution): Links your App ID and certificate, allowing you to upload the app.
Incorrect or expired certificates will prevent you from uploading or updating your build. If you’re learning how to publish an iOS app on App Store for the first time, this step may feel complicated but it’s necessary for security and trust.
App Store Connect is your main dashboard for managing your iOS app. Before you publish an app on App Store, you must:
Create an app listing
Enter the name, subtitle, and description
Add keywords for App Store search ranking
Choose categories (primary & secondary)
Set your app’s price (free or paid)
Enter age rating details
Add app version information
Upload screenshots and preview videos
Assign your uploaded build to the version
App Store Connect is where you actually start the process to submit an app to App Store for review. A complete, error-free listing speeds up the approval process.
Apple requires several documents and assets before you can upload an iOS app to Apple Store:
Privacy Policy URL: You must host it on a public webpage. Even simple apps must have one.
App Icon (1024×1024 px): Must follow Apple’s design rules: no transparency, no rounded corners, high resolution.
Screenshots for All Devices: iPhone 6.7", 6.5", 5.5", and iPad screenshots depending on your app. All screenshots must show real app screens, not mockups or fake designs.
App Preview Video: A short 15–30 second video increases downloads but is not mandatory.
Support URL & Marketing URL: Apple rejects apps with low-quality or misleading visuals, so follow guidelines carefully.
Before you upload your app to App Store, ensure your app follows Apple’s rules:
No bugs or crashes
Smooth and tested UI
Only necessary permissions (camera, location, microphone, etc.)
No copyrighted content without permission
No misleading information
Clear login or account deletion process
Accurate data usage explanation
No harmful or inappropriate content
Apple’s review process is strict, so meeting compliance guidelines is essential. If your listing or app violates rules, Apple will reject it instantly, even if you're trying to publish a free or paid app to App Store.
Before submitting your app for review, upload a beta build to TestFlight. This allows you and your testers to check:
Performance
Bugs
UI issues
Onboarding flow
Real device behavior
Although TestFlight is optional, most apps tested by a skilled iOS app development company have a much higher chance of passing Apple’s review on the first submission.
With all these requirements ready, you can confidently publish an iOS app on Apple Store with fewer delays, errors, or approval issues.
Publishing your iOS app becomes much easier when you follow the right steps in the right order. Below are the first three steps you must complete before you can publish your app on App Store successfully.
To submit an app to App Store, you must have an active Apple Developer Program account.
This membership is required for:
Managing certificates & provisioning profiles
Using App Store Connect
Uploading builds via Xcode
Submitting your app for review
Accessing TestFlight for beta testing
Cost: $99/year
You can enroll as:
Individual - for personal apps
Organization – for company-owned apps (requires D-U-N-S number)
Once enrolled, you gain access to all the tools needed to prepare and submit your app. Without this step, it’s impossible to start the publishing process.
Every iOS app needs a unique App ID before it can be published or tested.
This App ID ties together your app build, certificates, and App Store Connect listing.
An App ID has two parts:
Prefix (Team ID): Automatically assigned
Suffix (Bundle ID): Created by you (example: com.companyname.appname)
When creating the App ID, you must also enable the required capabilities such as:
Push Notifications
Sign In with Apple
Background Modes
Keychain Access
In-App Purchases
Selecting the right capabilities is important because incorrect settings can prevent you from uploading your build or using certain features inside the app.
This is one of the most technical steps when preparing to publish an app on App Store. Apple uses certificates to verify the identity of the developer and ensure the app is secure.
You must create:
iOS Distribution Certificate: Allows you to sign the app for release
App Store Provisioning Profile:Connects your certificate + App ID
The provisioning profile tells Apple that:
You are the authorized developer
Your app is signed properly
The app belongs to the App ID you created
If your certificate expires or is invalid, Xcode will not allow you to upload the build. This step must be completed carefully, or the publishing process will fail later.
Before you can upload an iOS app to App Store, your app must be fully ready in Xcode. This includes final testing, cleaning the code, checking the UI, and ensuring there are no crashes. Apple’s review team tests your app carefully, so the smoother it works, the faster your approval.
Set your app version and build number
Choose “Any iOS Device” or the correct target device
Disable debug logs
Ensure all API keys and third-party services are properly configured
Run final tests on different iPhone/iPad models
Fix performance issues, layout issues, and broken links
Once testing is complete, you need to Archive your app in Xcode. This creates a release build that you can upload to App Store Connect. If your app fails archives, it means your certificates or build settings need fixing.
After archiving, you must upload your IPA/AAB file to App Store Connect. Xcode provides a built-in method to do this.
Using Xcode:
Go to Window – Organizer
Select your archived build
Click Distribute App\
Choose App Store Connect
Select Upload
Follow the prompts
Xcode will validate your build and check for:
Missing icons
Provisioning issues
Invalid certificates
App Store compliance errors
If all checks pass, your build is uploaded successfully.
Using Transporter (Mac App)
Transporter is helpful if you want a simpler upload process.
Drag and drop your IPA file
Click Deliver
Done.
Once uploaded, your build will appear under
App Store Connect
TestFlight or App Version
Build Section.
This completes the most crucial step required to publish an iOS app on Apple Store.
Now that your build is uploaded, you must create your app’s public listing, the page users will see on the App Store. This step is essential for both free and paid apps.
You must add:
App Name
Subtitle
Description
Keywords (for ASO ranking)
Support URL
Marketing URL (optional)
Category (Primary & Secondary)
Age Rating Questionnaire
Copyright info
Add Required Assets:
App icon (1024×1024 px)
Screenshots for all required device sizes
App preview video (optional but powerful)
Make sure the information is clear, correct, and non-misleading. Apple rejects apps for inaccurate metadata, so take time filling this correctly. Once your listing is complete, you can attach your uploaded build and move to the final steps.
This is one of the most important steps before you publish your app on App Store because your app’s metadata affects both search ranking and approval chances. Apple is strict about misleading text, so everything must be accurate and honest.
App Name
Your app’s official title (max 30 characters).
It should be unique and easy to search.
Subtitle
A short line that highlights your app’s core function.
Description
Explain your app’s features, benefits, and use cases in simple language.
Avoid promotional or exaggerated claims, Apple rejects misleading descriptions.
Keywords
These help users find your app in App Store search.
Add relevant terms, separated by commas.
Category
Choose a primary and secondary category (e.g., Productivity, Health, Finance).
Age Rating
Answer Apple’s questionnaire honestly. Incorrect ratings can lead to rejection.
Accurate app information makes it easier to submit an app to App Store without delays.
Your screenshots and videos represent your app in the App Store. Apple requires separate screenshots for different device sizes.
Required screenshot sizes:
iPhone 6.7"
iPhone 6.5"
iPhone 5.5"
iPad sizes (if you support iPad)
Screenshots must:
Show real app screens (not mockups)
Highlight core features
Use high-resolution images
Follow Apple’s design rules
A 15–30 second preview video increases installs and helps users understand how your app works.
Poor-quality or deceptive visuals can cause rejection, so ensure the assets match your actual app interface.
Apple requires full transparency about how your app collects, stores, and uses data. This is mandatory when you publish an app on App Store, regardless of whether your app is free or paid.
You must:
Complete the “App Privacy” Questionnaire
Declare all data collected:
Contact info
Location
Device ID
Usage data
Financial data
Health data
Must be publicly accessible and clearly written.
Declare Required Permissions
Explain why your app uses:
Camera
Microphone
Location
Photos
Bluetooth
Tracking
Apple rejects apps that use permissions without a valid purpose.
Once all details are complete, your build is attached, and your metadata is correct, you can finally submit your app to App Store for review.
To submit:
Go to App Store Connect → My Apps
Open your app
Select the version you created
Attach the uploaded build
Answer export compliance questions
Hit Submit for Review
Review Timeline:
Most apps: 24–48 hours
Apps with sensitive content or permissions: 3–7 days
New developer accounts: Longer review time
Apple may approve your app, reject it, or request changes. Fix issues and resubmit until approved.
Submitting your iOS app is only half the journey, the real challenge is ensuring Apple approves it. Since Apple focuses heavily on quality, safety, and user experience, understanding the review process helps you avoid delays and improves your chances of approval on the first try.
These guidelines are essential for anyone preparing to publish your app on App Store.
Once you submit your app, it doesn’t go live instantly. Apple’s team manually reviews every app to ensure it meets their quality and safety standards. Knowing the usual review timelines helps you plan your launch better and avoid last-minute surprises.
Most apps fall into this category. If your app is stable, uses basic permissions, and follows Apple’s guidelines, approval usually happens within one to two days.
Apps dealing with money, location tracking, health records, or identity verification require deeper manual review. Apple checks every feature for safety and accuracy before allowing you to upload an app to App Store successfully.
If you’re publishing your first app, Apple often takes additional time to verify authenticity and ensure your app follows all policies. This is normal and doesn’t indicate any issue.
During peak times, such as major iOS releases or holidays, review queues get longer. Planning your release timeline helps avoid unexpected delays in your App Store launch.
Apple may place your app under extended review if it finds unclear functionality, complex features, or security-related concerns. This allows them to test more thoroughly before approval.
A lot of rejections happen due to small, avoidable mistakes. Understanding the most common reasons why Apple rejects apps helps you fix issues before submitting and increases your chances of getting approved on the first try.
If your app crashes or freezes at any point during review, it will be rejected immediately. Apple expects production-level stability even in the first version.
Incorrect screenshots, exaggerated descriptions, or inaccurate features lead to rejection. Apple ensures that what users see in the listing matches what they experience inside the app.
Apple requires full transparency about data usage. Missing or incorrect privacy information often results in instant rejection until the section is updated correctly.
If your app asks for access to the camera, location, microphone, or contacts without a valid reason, Apple will block the submission for violating privacy standards.
Poor design, unresponsive buttons, slow loading speeds, or unfinished screens signal that your app isn’t ready for public use. Apple rejects anything that doesn’t meet basic usability standards.
Every app must have a valid, accessible Privacy Policy URL. Without one, Apple automatically rejects the submission because user data transparency is mandatory.
Using unlicensed images, music, brand names, or logos leads to immediate rejection. Apple strictly prohibits copyrighted or trademarked content without proof of permission.
Apps containing inappropriate, offensive, or unverified content violate Apple’s policies and cannot be approved until compliant.
Getting rejected can feel frustrating, but it’s completely normal and often easy to fix. Instead of resubmitting blindly, you should use Apple’s feedback to make targeted improvements.
Apple explains the exact reason for rejection. Reading the message thoroughly helps you understand what the reviewer found problematic.
Correct the bug, modify the UI, update descriptions, or adjust permissions depending on what Apple mentioned in its feedback.
If the issue is inside the app, build a new version and submit again. For metadata issues, you can fix them directly in App Store Connect without uploading a new build.
After addressing the issue, resubmit your app for Apple’s review. Most second submissions get approved quickly if fixes are accurate.
If you believe the reviewer misunderstood your app’s functionality, you can reply directly in the Resolution Center for clarification.
If your app works correctly but Apple flagged it incorrectly, upload a video showing the expected behavior. This often helps resolve misunderstandings.
Getting your app approved the first time is achievable if you prepare properly. Apple values stability, clarity, and user safety above everything else.
When you follow best practices and optimize your app before submission, the chances of rejection drop significantly. These tips help ensure a smooth, faster approval process when you publish an iOS app on Apple Store.
Apple tests apps on real devices, so issues you miss may be caught during their review. Test on different iPhone and iPad models, screen sizes, and iOS versions. This helps identify crashes, layout shifts, slow loading, or touch responsiveness issues that might cause rejection.
Request permissions like camera, microphone, location, or contacts only when absolutely necessary. If Apple feels your app is collecting unnecessary data, it may reject your submission. Always explain the purpose of each permission clearly inside your app and in the App Privacy section.
Your screenshot gallery should reflect the actual UI of your app, not concept art or mockups. The description should highlight real features without exaggeration. Apple rejects apps with misleading content because it affects user trust and App Store transparency.
Apple reviews your privacy responses closely. If your app collects, stores, shares, or analyzes data, you must disclose every detail. Inaccurate privacy information is a top reason for rejection, so always fill this section carefully and honestly.
A public, accessible Privacy Policy is required for all apps, free or paid. The policy must explain data usage, permissions, and security practices. Apps without a valid Privacy Policy URL are instantly rejected during App Store review.
Apple rejects apps that contain unfinished screens, dummy text, sample data, or temporary content. Ensure every part of the app is functional and ready for public use before submitting it to the App Store.
Your app should follow Apple’s Human Interface Guidelines. A clear layout, smooth navigation, readable fonts, and consistent spacing improve user experience and reduce the risk of UI-based rejection.
Before you can publish your app on App Store, Apple requires a complete set of high-quality visual and written assets. These assets help users understand your app, evaluate its features, and decide whether to download it.
Apple is very strict about design quality, accuracy, and formatting, so preparing them correctly is a major step before you upload your iOS app to App Store.
Here’s everything you must include:
Your app icon is the first thing users see, so Apple has strict rules to maintain consistency and visual clarity across the App Store.
The icon must be:
1024 × 1024 px
No transparency
No rounded corners (Apple applies rounding automatically)
Clear, simple, and recognizable
Free from copyrighted or brand elements you don’t own
A poorly designed or low-resolution icon can lead to rejection, even if your app is perfect.
Screenshots are essential for communicating your app’s real interface and features. Apple does not allow fake mockups or misleading visuals.
You must upload screenshots for all device sizes your app supports:
iPhone 6.7"
iPhone 6.5"
iPhone 5.5"
iPad Pro sizes (if compatible
Mac screenshots (for Catalyst or Mac apps)
Screenshots must show actual app screens, be high-resolution, and follow Apple’s clean, professional style.
An App Preview video is optional, but it can significantly increase conversions. Apple requires:
Duration: 15–30 seconds
Must show real app functionality
No promotional text, unrelated footage, or animation-heavy intros
Must use device frame formats approved by Apple
The video should be informative, simple, and true to your UI
Videos that are overly dramatic, animated, or misleading will be rejected.
Your app listing must accurately describe what your app does. Apple checks every word to ensure users are not misled.
Metadata includes:
App Name
Subtitle
Short & long description
Keywords
Support URL
Copyright
Category
Descriptions should be clear, honest, and written in simple language. Avoid exaggerated claims like “best in the world” or misleading comparisons.
Apple requires detailed transparency regarding data collection.
You must provide:
A complete App Privacy Questionnaire
A Privacy Policy URL
Clear explanations for each permission (camera, location, microphone, etc.)
Inaccurate disclosures are one of the biggest reasons apps fail approval.
Updating your app is just as important as the first time you publish your app on App Store. Regular updates improve performance, fix bugs, enhance user experience, and keep your app compatible with new iOS versions.
If you are releasing new features or doing routine maintenance, Apple requires you to follow a structured process when uploading a new version. Here’s a clear and complete guide on how to update your app smoothly.
To submit an update, you must upload a new build through Xcode or Apple’s Transporter app.In Xcode:
Open your project
Update the version and build number
Archive the app
Validate and upload
Xcode automatically checks for certificate issues, missing assets, and errors. Once uploaded, the build appears under the “Activity” or “TestFlight” tab in App Store Connect.
Apple requires clear and correct version numbers.For example:
Version 1.0: Version 1.1 (minor update)
Version 1.0: Version 2.0 (major changes or redesigns)
Each new version must include release notes describing what’s new bug fixes, improvements, or new features. Avoid vague phrases like “updated app.” Apple prefers clear, meaningful information.
App Store Connect provides multiple release options:
Internal Testing (Up to 100 users): Test privately within your team before public release. Good for quick bug checks.
TestFlight Public Beta: Allows up to 10,000 users to test your app. Ideal for major updates or feature testing.
Production Release: The final step where your update becomes live for all App Store users.
Choosing the right track reduces risks and ensures stability before users receive the update.
If your new build changes features, UI, or permissions, you may need to update:
Description
Sceenshots
App preview video
Permission explanations
App Privacy details
Apple will reject updates if metadata doesn’t match the actual app behavior.
After attaching the new build to your version, click Submit for Review. Apple reviews updates faster than first-time submissions, usually within 24 hours, unless the update contains new permissions or major structural changes.
Updating your app the right way keeps users satisfied and ensures your app remains compliant with Apple’s guidelines every time you upload an app to App Store.
Even experienced developers make avoidable mistakes when trying to publish your app on App Store. Apple’s guidelines are strict, and even the smallest issue can lead to delays or rejection.
Understanding these common mistakes helps you avoid unnecessary back-and-forth with Apple’s review team and ensures a smoother launch. Here are the most frequent publishing errors and how to prevent them:
Many developers rely solely on simulators, but Apple tests apps on real devices. If your app crashes, freezes, loads slowly, or has broken navigation, it will be rejected instantly.
It’s important to test your app on multiple iPhone and iPad models, different screen sizes, and different iOS versions to ensure smooth performance.
Apple closely checks whether your screenshots reflect the actual UI. Fake mockups, incomplete screens, or features that don’t exist inside the app can lead to immediate rejection.
Screenshots must be high-quality, device-accurate, and show the real user experience that people will see after downloading.
Metadata includes your app name, subtitle, description, keywords, and category. Developers often rush this part, leaving typos, missing keywords, or incorrect descriptions.
Apple rejects listings that contain exaggerated claims, promotional phrases, or unclear information. All metadata must match what your app actually does and how it behaves.
One of the biggest reasons apps get rejected is incomplete or inaccurate privacy details. Apple asks detailed questions about data collection, tracking, permissions, analytics, and third-party SDKs.
If the information does not match your app’s behavior, Apple will reject your submission. You must also provide a valid Privacy Policy URL, even for simple apps.
Requesting access to the camera, microphone, location, or contacts without a valid purpose is a red flag. Apple treats privacy very seriously.
If your app asks for permissions that it does not clearly use, your submission will be blocked. Make sure your app requests only what it needs.
Developers sometimes upload icons with transparency, low resolution, or rounded corners. Apple does not allow this.
Your icon must follow strict requirements: 1024×1024 px, no transparency, no borders, no rounded edges. A poorly designed icon can cause rejection even if the app works perfectly.
Any unfinished content, such as “Coming Soon,” empty screens, lorem ipsum, test data, or links that do not work, leads to rejection.
Apple expects a fully complete, production-ready app. Make sure every feature is fully functional before you submit your iOS app to App Store.
Apple has very clear UI rules concerning spacing, buttons, gestures, layout, and visual clarity.
If your design feels cluttered, hard to navigate, or inconsistent with iOS standards, your app may not be approved. Clean, minimal, easy-to-use UI always performs better in review.
Some developers mistakenly submit the wrong build or forget to increment the version number in Xcode.
Apple will reject the submission if the version does not match the App Store Connect listing. Always update both the build number and version before archiving.
It’s easy to feel excited and rushed, but publishing without proper testing and polish increases rejection risk.
Using TestFlight to gather feedback before launch greatly boosts approval chances and reduces post-launch issues.
Even experienced developers make avoidable mistakes when trying to publish your app on App Store. Apple’s guidelines are strict, and even the smallest issue can lead to delays or rejection.
Understanding these common mistakes helps you avoid unnecessary back-and-forth with Apple’s review team and ensures a smoother launch.
Here are the most frequent publishing errors and how to prevent them:
Many developers rely solely on simulators, but Apple tests apps on real devices. If your app crashes, freezes, loads slowly, or has broken navigation, it will be rejected instantly.
It’s important to test your app on multiple iPhone and iPad models, different screen sizes, and different iOS versions to ensure smooth performance.
Apple closely checks whether your screenshots reflect the actual UI. Fake mockups, incomplete screens, or features that don’t exist inside the app can lead to immediate rejection.
Screenshots must be high-quality, device-accurate, and show the real user experience that people will see after downloading.
Metadata includes your app name, subtitle, description, keywords, and category. Developers often rush this part, leaving typos, missing keywords, or incorrect descriptions.
Apple rejects listings that contain exaggerated claims, promotional phrases, or unclear information. All metadata must match what your app actually does and how it behaves.
One of the biggest reasons apps get rejected is incomplete or inaccurate privacy details.
Apple asks detailed questions about data collection, tracking, permissions, analytics, and third-party SDKs. If the information does not match your app’s behavior, Apple will reject your submission. You must also provide a valid Privacy Policy URL, even for simple apps.
Requesting access to the camera, microphone, location, or contacts without a valid purpose is a red flag.
Apple treats privacy very seriously. If your app asks for permissions that it does not clearly use, your submission will be blocked. Make sure your app requests only what it needs.
Developers sometimes upload icons with transparency, low resolution, or rounded corners. Apple does not allow this.
Your icon must follow strict requirements: 1024×1024 px, no transparency, no borders, no rounded edges. A poorly designed icon can cause rejection even if the app works perfectly.
Any unfinished content, such as “Coming Soon,” empty screens, lorem ipsum, test data, or links that do not work, leads to rejection. Apple expects a fully complete, production-ready app. Make sure every feature is fully functional before you upload an app to App Store.
Apple has very clear UI rules concerning spacing, buttons, gestures, layout, and visual clarity. If your design feels cluttered, hard to navigate, or inconsistent with iOS standards, your app may not be approved. Clean, minimal, easy-to-use UI always performs better in review.
Some developers mistakenly submit the wrong build or forget to increment the version number in Xcode. Apple will reject the submission if the version does not match the App Store Connect listing. Always update both the build number and version before archiving.
It’s easy to feel excited and rushed, but publishing without proper testing and polish increases rejection risk. Using TestFlight to gather feedback before launch greatly boosts approval chances and reduces post-launch issues.
Once you publish your app on App Store, getting discovered by users becomes the next big challenge. With millions of apps available, your app needs strong App Store Optimization (ASO) to stand out.
ASO helps improve your app’s visibility, increase downloads, and boost overall ranking. Think of it as SEO, but specifically for the App Store. Here are some effective ASO strategies to help your app gain more traction.
Your app title is one of the strongest ranking signals. Use a short, clear name that includes your brand and one primary keyword. For example: “FitTrack – Step Counter.” Avoid using too many keywords or unnecessary words.
The subtitle appears right below your app name and should highlight your main value. Keep it crisp and benefit-focused. The short description influences users when they quickly view your listing, so make it simple, direct, and persuasive.
This is your chance to explain your app’s features, how it works, and why users should download it. Use short paragraphs, bullet points, and simple language. Add relevant keywords naturally, but avoid overusing them, Apple dislikes keyword stuffing.
Screenshots play a huge role in convincing users to download your app. Use real app screens, clean visuals, and short captions describing key features. Highlight benefits such as “Track your steps,” “Monitor your goals,” or “Organize your tasks easily.”
A short 15–30 second video can increase conversion rates by showing users exactly how your app works. Keep the video simple, honest, and focused on actual app functionality
Positive reviews improve credibility and ranking. Add an in-app prompt asking users to share feedback after a positive experience. Respond to reviews regularly to maintain trust.
Selecting the right primary and secondary category ensures your app appears in the most relevant searches. Choose tags that match your core features, not just what’s trending.
Apps that update frequently rank higher and attract more downloads. Each update is also a chance to improve your description, screenshots, or keywords.
Strong ASO ensures that after you publish an iSO app to Apple Store, users can easily find it, and that leads to more visibility, more downloads, and better long-term growth.
The cost to publish your app on App Store is fairly straightforward, but many new developers underestimate the additional expenses involved.
The primary cost is the Apple Developer Program membership, which is required for every developer or company that wants to upload an app to App Store. This membership costs $99 per year, and it must stay active for your app to remain available on the App Store.
Beyond this fee, your overall investment also depends on your mobile app development cost. Depending on the complexity, design quality, and features, mobile app development can range from $8,000 to $80,000 or more. If your app requires advanced features like real-time chat, payments, GPS, or AI, the development cost increases accordingly.
Additional optional expenses may include:
App preview video creation
ASO optimization
Marketing and launch campaigns
Third-party APIs (maps, notifications, analytics)
If you hire a professional team to handle publishing, there may be service fees as well.
Overall, the actual cost to publish is $99/year, but the total cost of releasing your app depends heavily on development, design, testing, and post-launch improvements.
Navigating Apple’s strict publishing process can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time trying to publish your app on App Store. At Techanic Infotech, we simplify the entire journey.
As an experienced mobile app development company, we handle everything, from building your iOS app to preparing App Store assets, configuring certificates, generating builds, completing App Store Connect setup, and submitting your app for review.
Our team ensures your app meets Apple’s UI, security, and performance guidelines so you can avoid rejection and launch faster. Whether you need help with development, optimization, or end-to-end publishing support, Techanic Infotech makes the process seamless, reliable, and stress-free.
Ready to go live? We’re here to help you launch with confidence.
Publishing an iOS app may seem complex at first, but once you understand each step, preparing your assets, setting up certificates, uploading your build, and submitting for review, the process becomes much smoother.
Apple’s strict guidelines ensure only high-quality apps go live, so careful preparation is the key to fast approval. Whether you want to update your app or publish your app on App Store for the first time, following the right approach helps you avoid delays and rejections.
With proper testing, accurate metadata, and strong ASO, you can confidently launch your app and reach millions of iOS users.
How long does it take to publish an app on the App Store?
Most iOS apps are reviewed within 24–48 hours. Apps with sensitive features (payments, health data, location tracking) may take 3–7 days. New developers may experience slightly longer review times.
Do I need to pay to publish an iOS app?
Yes. To publish your app on App Store, you must join the Apple Developer Program, which costs $99 per year. This fee is required for both free and paid apps.
Can I publish my app for free on the App Store?
You cannot publish completely free because the Apple Developer Program requires annual payment. However, you can offer your app free to download once it's published.
Why does Apple reject apps during review?
Common reasons include crashes, misleading screenshots, metadata issues, privacy violations, unnecessary permissions, missing Privacy Policy, or UI that does not follow Apple’s guidelines.
How many screenshots do I need for App Store submission?
You must upload screenshots for all supported devices, usually iPhone 6.7”, 6.5”, and 5.5”. If your app supports iPad, additional screenshots are required for iPad screen sizes.
Bharat Sharma is the CTO of Techanic Infotech, bringing deep technical expertise in software architecture, mobile app development, and scalable system design. He leads the engineering team with a strong focus on innovation, performance, and security.
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