Development
Nov 26, 2025
Why Do iOS Apps Get Rejected? Understanding the Apple Review Process
Why Do iOS Apps Get Rejected? Understanding the Apple Review Process
Neon Apps helps your iOS app meet Apple’s standards with clarity, quality and fewer review issues.
Neon Apps helps your iOS app meet Apple’s standards with clarity, quality and fewer review issues.
At Neon Apps, we often work with founders and app studios who are surprised when their iOS app submission gets rejected. While rejection can be frustrating, understanding the app review process and common pitfalls is key to a smooth launch. Over the years, we have guided both startups and subscription-based app studios through Apple’s review, helping them meet all requirements and avoid delays.
1. Failing to Follow App Store Guidelines
One of the most common reasons for rejection is not adhering to Apple’s app store guidelines. These rules cover content, functionality, legal compliance and performance. Apps that crash, have incomplete features, or fail basic functionality checks are almost always rejected.
When we developed a loyalty app for a global food chain, we made sure every feature was fully functional before submission, including offline capabilities and proper error handling. This proactive approach helped us pass Apple’s review the first time, avoiding costly resubmissions.
2. Poor User Experience Design and Navigation
Apple prioritizes apps that offer a smooth, intuitive experience. Apps with confusing flows, inconsistent interactions or cluttered screens can be rejected under user interface requirements or user experience design concerns.
In one of our subscription health apps, we redesigned the onboarding flow to reduce friction. By simplifying sign-ups, guiding users step by step, and ensuring consistent visual hierarchy, the app passed Apple’s review without a single comment about UX issues.
3. Privacy and Data Security Oversights
Apple is strict about privacy and data security. Any app collecting personal information must provide clear disclosures, secure storage, and proper user consent. Apps that fail to explain how they use data or implement weak encryption are often rejected.
We recently built a caregiver–family matching app where sensitive user data was central. We implemented end-to-end encryption, clear privacy disclosures, and granular consent options. This not only satisfied Apple’s reviewers but also increased user trust.
4. Intellectual Property Concerns
Apps that infringe on copyright, trademarks, or third-party content often face rejection due to intellectual property concerns. This includes using images, music, or code without proper licensing.
For all our projects, we verify that assets are either custom-made or licensed appropriately. In a subscription-based community app we developed, we replaced stock images with custom graphics, which prevented delays in the App Store approval process.
5. Incomplete or Broken Features
Submitting an app with unfinished features or placeholder content is a guaranteed path to rejection. Apple reviewers test every function, and any broken links, missing content, or non-functional buttons are flagged.
At Neon Apps, we always perform an internal QA and pre-submission checklist. For a sports management app, we tested over 50 different flows and device configurations to ensure smooth gameplay and stable performance before submission.
6. App Store Optimization and Metadata Errors
Even if the app itself is perfect, mistakes in your listing can trigger rejection. Poor app store optimization, missing screenshots, or inaccurate descriptions can prevent approval.
We guide clients through crafting compelling descriptions, localizing metadata, and providing clear screenshots. For example, in a subscription productivity app, we optimized the app title, keywords, and screenshots, which improved both approval success and download rates.
7. Frequent Design and Branding Issues
Apple also rejects apps for inconsistent branding, low-quality graphics, or poor resolution. Maintaining high-quality visuals and following design standards is essential for passing the review.
For enterprise apps, like airline or corporate loyalty platforms we developed, we ensure logos, color palettes, and typography align perfectly with brand identity and Apple’s visual standards, resulting in a smooth approval process.
8. Ignoring Updates and Versioning Requirements
Submitting an update without proper versioning, changelogs, or backward compatibility can lead to rejection. Apple expects apps to maintain stability and provide users with clear upgrade paths.
Our teams manage version control meticulously. For a subscription wellness app, every update included detailed release notes and thorough regression testing, which led to seamless approvals every time.
9. Failing to Support All Required Devices
Apps that do not support the full range of iOS devices, screen sizes, or orientations can be rejected. Apple evaluates how an app looks and functions on iPhones, iPads, and newer devices.
When building cross-device apps, we use responsive user interface design and dynamic layouts to ensure compatibility. This strategy helped one of our community apps launch simultaneously on iPhone and iPad without review issues.
10. Misaligned Business Models or Subscription Practices
Apple scrutinizes apps that include in-app purchases or subscription features. Apps that attempt to bypass Apple’s payment system or misrepresent subscription terms are flagged.
We always implement in-app purchases according to Apple’s policies. For subscription-based apps we develop, clear pricing, trial periods, and transparent billing are included in the metadata and UI, preventing rejections and building user confidence.
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Got a project? We build world-class mobile and web apps for startups and global brands.
Development
Nov 26, 2025
Why Do iOS Apps Get Rejected? Understanding the Apple Review Process
Why Do iOS Apps Get Rejected? Understanding the Apple Review Process
Neon Apps helps your iOS app meet Apple’s standards with clarity, quality and fewer review issues.
Neon Apps helps your iOS app meet Apple’s standards with clarity, quality and fewer review issues.
At Neon Apps, we often work with founders and app studios who are surprised when their iOS app submission gets rejected. While rejection can be frustrating, understanding the app review process and common pitfalls is key to a smooth launch. Over the years, we have guided both startups and subscription-based app studios through Apple’s review, helping them meet all requirements and avoid delays.
1. Failing to Follow App Store Guidelines
One of the most common reasons for rejection is not adhering to Apple’s app store guidelines. These rules cover content, functionality, legal compliance and performance. Apps that crash, have incomplete features, or fail basic functionality checks are almost always rejected.
When we developed a loyalty app for a global food chain, we made sure every feature was fully functional before submission, including offline capabilities and proper error handling. This proactive approach helped us pass Apple’s review the first time, avoiding costly resubmissions.
2. Poor User Experience Design and Navigation
Apple prioritizes apps that offer a smooth, intuitive experience. Apps with confusing flows, inconsistent interactions or cluttered screens can be rejected under user interface requirements or user experience design concerns.
In one of our subscription health apps, we redesigned the onboarding flow to reduce friction. By simplifying sign-ups, guiding users step by step, and ensuring consistent visual hierarchy, the app passed Apple’s review without a single comment about UX issues.
3. Privacy and Data Security Oversights
Apple is strict about privacy and data security. Any app collecting personal information must provide clear disclosures, secure storage, and proper user consent. Apps that fail to explain how they use data or implement weak encryption are often rejected.
We recently built a caregiver–family matching app where sensitive user data was central. We implemented end-to-end encryption, clear privacy disclosures, and granular consent options. This not only satisfied Apple’s reviewers but also increased user trust.
4. Intellectual Property Concerns
Apps that infringe on copyright, trademarks, or third-party content often face rejection due to intellectual property concerns. This includes using images, music, or code without proper licensing.
For all our projects, we verify that assets are either custom-made or licensed appropriately. In a subscription-based community app we developed, we replaced stock images with custom graphics, which prevented delays in the App Store approval process.
5. Incomplete or Broken Features
Submitting an app with unfinished features or placeholder content is a guaranteed path to rejection. Apple reviewers test every function, and any broken links, missing content, or non-functional buttons are flagged.
At Neon Apps, we always perform an internal QA and pre-submission checklist. For a sports management app, we tested over 50 different flows and device configurations to ensure smooth gameplay and stable performance before submission.
6. App Store Optimization and Metadata Errors
Even if the app itself is perfect, mistakes in your listing can trigger rejection. Poor app store optimization, missing screenshots, or inaccurate descriptions can prevent approval.
We guide clients through crafting compelling descriptions, localizing metadata, and providing clear screenshots. For example, in a subscription productivity app, we optimized the app title, keywords, and screenshots, which improved both approval success and download rates.
7. Frequent Design and Branding Issues
Apple also rejects apps for inconsistent branding, low-quality graphics, or poor resolution. Maintaining high-quality visuals and following design standards is essential for passing the review.
For enterprise apps, like airline or corporate loyalty platforms we developed, we ensure logos, color palettes, and typography align perfectly with brand identity and Apple’s visual standards, resulting in a smooth approval process.
8. Ignoring Updates and Versioning Requirements
Submitting an update without proper versioning, changelogs, or backward compatibility can lead to rejection. Apple expects apps to maintain stability and provide users with clear upgrade paths.
Our teams manage version control meticulously. For a subscription wellness app, every update included detailed release notes and thorough regression testing, which led to seamless approvals every time.
9. Failing to Support All Required Devices
Apps that do not support the full range of iOS devices, screen sizes, or orientations can be rejected. Apple evaluates how an app looks and functions on iPhones, iPads, and newer devices.
When building cross-device apps, we use responsive user interface design and dynamic layouts to ensure compatibility. This strategy helped one of our community apps launch simultaneously on iPhone and iPad without review issues.
10. Misaligned Business Models or Subscription Practices
Apple scrutinizes apps that include in-app purchases or subscription features. Apps that attempt to bypass Apple’s payment system or misrepresent subscription terms are flagged.
We always implement in-app purchases according to Apple’s policies. For subscription-based apps we develop, clear pricing, trial periods, and transparent billing are included in the metadata and UI, preventing rejections and building user confidence.
Stay Inspired
Get fresh design insights, articles, and resources delivered straight to your inbox.
Get stories, insights, and updates from the Neon Apps team straight to your inbox.
Get stories, insights, and updates from the Neon Apps team straight to your inbox.
Latest Blogs
Stay Inspired
Get stories, insights, and updates from the Neon Apps team straight to your inbox.
Got a project?
Let's Connect
Got a project? We build world-class mobile and web apps for startups and global brands.
Development
Nov 26, 2025
Why Do iOS Apps Get Rejected? Understanding the Apple Review Process
Why Do iOS Apps Get Rejected? Understanding the Apple Review Process
Neon Apps helps your iOS app meet Apple’s standards with clarity, quality and fewer review issues.
Neon Apps helps your iOS app meet Apple’s standards with clarity, quality and fewer review issues.
At Neon Apps, we often work with founders and app studios who are surprised when their iOS app submission gets rejected. While rejection can be frustrating, understanding the app review process and common pitfalls is key to a smooth launch. Over the years, we have guided both startups and subscription-based app studios through Apple’s review, helping them meet all requirements and avoid delays.
1. Failing to Follow App Store Guidelines
One of the most common reasons for rejection is not adhering to Apple’s app store guidelines. These rules cover content, functionality, legal compliance and performance. Apps that crash, have incomplete features, or fail basic functionality checks are almost always rejected.
When we developed a loyalty app for a global food chain, we made sure every feature was fully functional before submission, including offline capabilities and proper error handling. This proactive approach helped us pass Apple’s review the first time, avoiding costly resubmissions.
2. Poor User Experience Design and Navigation
Apple prioritizes apps that offer a smooth, intuitive experience. Apps with confusing flows, inconsistent interactions or cluttered screens can be rejected under user interface requirements or user experience design concerns.
In one of our subscription health apps, we redesigned the onboarding flow to reduce friction. By simplifying sign-ups, guiding users step by step, and ensuring consistent visual hierarchy, the app passed Apple’s review without a single comment about UX issues.
3. Privacy and Data Security Oversights
Apple is strict about privacy and data security. Any app collecting personal information must provide clear disclosures, secure storage, and proper user consent. Apps that fail to explain how they use data or implement weak encryption are often rejected.
We recently built a caregiver–family matching app where sensitive user data was central. We implemented end-to-end encryption, clear privacy disclosures, and granular consent options. This not only satisfied Apple’s reviewers but also increased user trust.
4. Intellectual Property Concerns
Apps that infringe on copyright, trademarks, or third-party content often face rejection due to intellectual property concerns. This includes using images, music, or code without proper licensing.
For all our projects, we verify that assets are either custom-made or licensed appropriately. In a subscription-based community app we developed, we replaced stock images with custom graphics, which prevented delays in the App Store approval process.
5. Incomplete or Broken Features
Submitting an app with unfinished features or placeholder content is a guaranteed path to rejection. Apple reviewers test every function, and any broken links, missing content, or non-functional buttons are flagged.
At Neon Apps, we always perform an internal QA and pre-submission checklist. For a sports management app, we tested over 50 different flows and device configurations to ensure smooth gameplay and stable performance before submission.
6. App Store Optimization and Metadata Errors
Even if the app itself is perfect, mistakes in your listing can trigger rejection. Poor app store optimization, missing screenshots, or inaccurate descriptions can prevent approval.
We guide clients through crafting compelling descriptions, localizing metadata, and providing clear screenshots. For example, in a subscription productivity app, we optimized the app title, keywords, and screenshots, which improved both approval success and download rates.
7. Frequent Design and Branding Issues
Apple also rejects apps for inconsistent branding, low-quality graphics, or poor resolution. Maintaining high-quality visuals and following design standards is essential for passing the review.
For enterprise apps, like airline or corporate loyalty platforms we developed, we ensure logos, color palettes, and typography align perfectly with brand identity and Apple’s visual standards, resulting in a smooth approval process.
8. Ignoring Updates and Versioning Requirements
Submitting an update without proper versioning, changelogs, or backward compatibility can lead to rejection. Apple expects apps to maintain stability and provide users with clear upgrade paths.
Our teams manage version control meticulously. For a subscription wellness app, every update included detailed release notes and thorough regression testing, which led to seamless approvals every time.
9. Failing to Support All Required Devices
Apps that do not support the full range of iOS devices, screen sizes, or orientations can be rejected. Apple evaluates how an app looks and functions on iPhones, iPads, and newer devices.
When building cross-device apps, we use responsive user interface design and dynamic layouts to ensure compatibility. This strategy helped one of our community apps launch simultaneously on iPhone and iPad without review issues.
10. Misaligned Business Models or Subscription Practices
Apple scrutinizes apps that include in-app purchases or subscription features. Apps that attempt to bypass Apple’s payment system or misrepresent subscription terms are flagged.
We always implement in-app purchases according to Apple’s policies. For subscription-based apps we develop, clear pricing, trial periods, and transparent billing are included in the metadata and UI, preventing rejections and building user confidence.
Stay Inspired
Get fresh design insights, articles, and resources delivered straight to your inbox.
Get stories, insights, and updates from the Neon Apps team straight to your inbox.
Get stories, insights, and updates from the Neon Apps team straight to your inbox.
Latest Blogs
Stay Inspired
Get stories, insights, and updates from the Neon Apps team straight to your inbox.