Avoiding Apple RejectionLiz Tupper – March 21, 2013@etupper#mobilemarch2013

History of the Approval Process

• July 2008, launch of the App Store• Dec 2009, detailed feedback added

• July 2009, weeks for app approval• Today, 5 days for app approval

• Sept 9, 2010 App Store Review Guidelines published

Checklist for iOS submission• Application Name• Application Description• Categories• Application URL• Support URL• EULA• Copyright• SKU Number• Rating• Keywords• Artwork• Screenshots• Icons

Rejection a definitionre·ject [v. ri-jekt; n. ree-jekt] verb (used with object)1. To refuse to have, take, recognize, etc.: to reject the offer of a

better job.2. To refuse to grant (a request, demand, etc.).3. To refuse to accept (someone or something); rebuff: The other

children rejected him. The publisher rejected the author's latest novel.

4. You ain’t gettin in da App Store!!!!!

How to Handle Apple Rejection

1. Acknowledge that anyone can be rejected2. Allow yourself to feel bad initially3. Understand that ongoing feelings of sorrow are just self-

delusions4. Don’t try to avoid rejection and pretend it’s something that

you must learn to “live with”5. Do not take rejection personally6. Try again

Notable Rejections: Obama Trampoline

Notable Rejections: Baby Shaker

Notable Rejections: I am Rich

Recent Notable Rejections: Sweatshop

Other Reasons For Rejection• Don’t use Apple’s name in vain• Avoid copying existing functionality: no web browser or email

clients• Repurposing using Apple’s graphics as other buttons within

your own apps• No explanation or instructions with submission• Username & passwords• Data in the database

• Privacy guidelines aren’t clear• Make sure you upload the correct binary• Don’t ask children for their contact information

Even More Reasons For Rejection

• Locked content• No private clubs!• Don’t use private APIs if it isn’t in the iPhone SDK

documentation you can’t use it • Avoid making the platform look bad• No porn!• Don’t use Beta, Preview or Version numbers below 1.0• Network reachability• Offensive language• Long load time

Resources

App Store Review Guidelines - https://developer.apple.com/appstore/resources/approval/guidelines.html

Detailed iOS Submission Checklist - https://ontestpad.com/library/201/ios-app-store-submission-checklist

Sharing Your Rejection Story and Questions

Recap• Be thoughtful as you fill out your submission• If you are rejected it’s okay• Try again

Good Luck!

Connect With Me!• @etupper• www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethtupper/