iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
If your app is rejected by the App Store, start by reading the cited guideline and responding in App Store Connect. Then choose the action that matches the problem: clarify with Apple, correct and resubmit the affected item, or appeal after replying if you still believe the decision conflicts with the rule. Do not send the same unresolved submission back and expect a different result.
What an App Store rejection tells you
App Review checks submissions against technical, content, and design criteria that address reliability, expected performance, privacy, and objectionable content. The rejection message points to the relevant rule; use that citation as the starting point rather than guessing at a fix. Apple publishes its App Review Guidelines and says rejection messages explain how a submission violates the applicable guidelines.
Before responding, match the cited rule to the behavior Apple identified. Gather relevant screenshots, reproduction steps, demo credentials, permission details, or other supporting information that shows how the app works. If the message is unclear, ask for clarification in the review conversation instead of making an unsupported assumption about what needs to change.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Choose the right response: reply, resubmit, or appeal
| Action | Use it when | What happens |
|---|---|---|
| Reply in App Store Connect | Apple needs clarification or evidence, or a metadata or server-side change addresses the concern. | You continue the existing conversation without starting a new review. |
| Fix and resubmit | The build has a defect or the rejected item itself needs a change. | You submit the corrected build or item for review. Resolve all identified issues first. |
| Appeal | After replying, you still believe the decision conflicts with the cited rule or was unfair or biased. | You ask the App Review Board to investigate. A complete appeal does not guarantee reversal. |
Apple allows developers to correspond with App Review and attach files in App Store Connect. Its review-status guidance says a request for more information does not, by itself, require a resubmission. If the issue can be resolved by explaining the app, correcting metadata, or making a server-side change, reply directly and describe what you changed or clarified. See Apple’s instructions for replying to App Review messages.
#1 Best Overall
How to respond to a rejection in App Store Connect
- Open the rejection message. In App Store Connect, review the message for the cited guideline, affected item, and any specific information Apple requests.
- Prepare a focused response. Address each cited concern. Include concise reproduction steps, screenshots, demo access details, or supporting documents when they help explain the app’s behavior.
- Reply in the review conversation. Use the reply option on the submission’s App Review message. Attach relevant files if needed, and state clearly whether you made a metadata or server-side change or are providing clarification only.
- Resubmit only if a change to the submission is needed. For a metadata-only problem, Apple says you may correct the metadata and resubmit the same build. For a build issue, upload and submit a corrected build.
Apple warns that resubmitting while identified issues remain unresolved can delay review and lead to the same outcome. Its review-status guidance distinguishes responding to a request for information from submitting a changed version for review.
When an appeal makes sense
Apple’s sequence is to reply to the rejection, removal, or termination message and provide clarification before appealing. If that conversation does not resolve the issue and you still believe the decision is wrong, submit an appeal that identifies the exact guideline or agreement provision and explains point by point how the app complies.
Address all cited violations in one appeal; Apple says to submit only one appeal per rejected or removed app. The App Review Board may ask for more information or arrange a call. Apple explicitly cautions that submitting a complete appeal does not guarantee the Board will overturn the rejection. Read Apple’s App Review Board appeal guidance before filing.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Example: make a privacy permission explanation specific
A rejection involving a privacy purpose string can often be addressed by explaining the app’s concrete use of the protected data or device resource. Apple’s Guideline 5.1.1(ii) purpose-string guidance says strings should clearly and completely describe that use. It recommends naming the feature or outcome, using a separate string for each protected resource, and giving a concrete example.
A vague statement such as “Your data will be used to provide a better experience” does not explain what the app does with the resource. A more useful explanation connects the permission to a feature—for example, that location is used to recommend a route and provide turn-by-turn directions. The purpose string should accurately describe the app’s actual behavior, not promise functionality it does not provide.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.How long App Review may take
Apple says App Review works around the clock with a goal of reviewing at least 50% of submissions in less than 24 hours and 90% in less than 48 hours. These are Apple’s stated goals, not guarantees for a particular submission or a deadline for resolving a rejection. Documentation checks and complex or novel features can require additional verification time. Apple’s current review-status page describes these targets and possible delays.
Quick Recap
Best Value
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
