Submit Your App to App Store (2020)

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. What is the Apple Developer Program?
3. Requirements for Apple Certification
4. Overview of the App Store Submission Process
   • Step 1: Create a Provisioning Profile
   • Step 2: Use App Store Connect for App Submission
   • Step 3: Archive and Submit Your App in Xcode
   • Step 4: Review and Approval Process
   • Step 5: Releasing Your App in the App Store
5. Enrolling in the Apple Developer Program
6. Tools and Tips for App Store Optimization (ASO)
7. The Importance of Privacy Policies
8. Creating App Screenshots and Preview Videos
9. Choosing App Store Categories and Keywords
10. Best Practices for App Store Listing Descriptions

How to Submit Your App to the Apple App Store and the Apple Developer Program Explained

So, You've built an amazing app and now you want to share it with the world. But how do you get your app into the Apple App Store? What is the Apple Developer Program? And what does Apple require you to do in order to pass their certification process?

In this article, we will answer all of these questions for you and provide a step-by-step guide on how to submit your app to the Apple App Store. We will also discuss the importance of enrolling in the Apple Developer Program, app store optimization (ASO) strategies, and other best practices for creating a successful app listing.

Introduction

Before we dive into the submission process, let's briefly discuss the importance of having your app in the App Store. The Apple App Store is the go-to marketplace for millions of users worldwide to discover and download apps for their iPhone, iPad, and other Apple devices. By submitting your app to the App Store, you can reach a massive audience and potentially earn revenue through app sales and in-app purchases.

What is the Apple Developer Program?

Before you can submit your app to the App Store, you need to enroll in the Apple Developer Program. This program allows developers to access the necessary tools and resources to create, test, and distribute apps for Apple devices. The Apple Developer Program costs $99 per year and provides developers with features such as access to App Store Connect, where you submit and manage your apps, as well as the ability to create development and distribution certificates.

Requirements for Apple Certification

To ensure the quality and security of apps in the App Store, Apple has a certification process in place. Before submitting your app, you need to meet certain requirements outlined in the App Store guidelines. These guidelines include guidelines for app content, design, functionality, and user experience. To pass the certification process, your app needs to follow these guidelines, meet a quality threshold, and not contain any restricted content.

Overview of the App Store Submission Process

Now that you have a basic understanding of the Apple Developer Program and certification requirements, let's walk through the step-by-step process of submitting your app to the App Store.

Step 1: Create a Provisioning Profile

Before submitting your app, you need to create a provisioning profile, also known as a profile. A provisioning profile ties your app back to a known developer, allows it to be installed on known devices, and grants it the necessary permissions to access services like CloudKit and Game Center. Creating a provisioning profile is a straightforward process, and it is a requirement for submitting your app to the App Store.

Step 2: Use App Store Connect for App Submission

App Store Connect is the Website where you submit and manage your apps in the App Store. Once you log into App Store Connect, you can create a brand new App Store listing or manage your existing app store listings. App Store Connect allows you to add important information about your app, such as the title, description, screenshots, and keywords. It also provides features for app analytics, sales reports, and managing your banking information for payments.

Step 3: Archive and Submit Your App in Xcode

After setting up your App Store listing in App Store Connect, you need to prepare your app for submission using Xcode. Xcode is the development environment for building iOS apps. Once you've finished building and testing your app in Xcode, you can create an archive of your app, which is a bundle that contains all of your code and resources. This archive can then be submitted to App Store Connect for review.

Step 4: Review and Approval Process

Once you've submitted your app to App Store Connect, it undergoes a review process by the Apple certification team. They will ensure that your app follows all the App Store guidelines, meets the quality threshold, and does not contain any restricted content. This review process usually takes a day or two, and if everything is in order, your app will be approved and prepared for release.

Step 5: Releasing Your App in the App Store

If your app passes the review process, congratulations! Your app will be live in the App Store within 24 hours, provided you have specified an immediate release. If you want to release your app at a future date, you can rest assured that it has already passed the certification process and will go live on the specified date. However, if your app does not pass the review process, the certification team will provide feedback on what needs to be fixed. You can address the issues raised, make the necessary adjustments, and resubmit your app for review.

Enrolling in the Apple Developer Program

To submit your app to the App Store, you need to enroll in the Apple Developer Program. The annual fee of $99 provides you with access to the tools and resources needed to create, test, and distribute your apps. By enrolling in the program, you gain access to App Store Connect, where you can manage your app listings, view analytics, track sales, and set up banking information for payments.

Pros:

• Access to App Store Connect for app submission and management.
• Opportunities for app monetization through sales and in-app purchases.
• Support and resources from Apple, including developer documentation and tools.

Cons:

• Annual fee of $99 may be a barrier for some developers.
• Certification process and adherence to App Store guidelines can be strict and time-consuming.

Tools and Tips for App Store Optimization (ASO)

App Store Optimization (ASO) is the process of optimizing your app's visibility and discoverability in the App Store. By implementing ASO strategies, you can increase the chances of your app being found by potential users. Some key ASO tactics include keyword research, utilizing Relevant categories, optimizing app listing descriptions, and creating compelling app screenshots and preview videos.

Pros:

• Increased visibility and discoverability of your app in the App Store.
• Higher chances of attracting organic downloads and user engagement.
• Potential for improved app rankings and competitive AdVantage.

Cons:

• Requires ongoing monitoring and optimization to maintain visibility.
• Getting keywords and descriptions right can be a challenge without proper research and analysis.

The Importance of Privacy Policies

When submitting your app to the App Store, one important requirement is providing a privacy policy. A privacy policy explains how you will handle user data and ensures transparency to your app users. It is essential to inform users about how their information will be used, stored, and protected. Many online resources provide examples and guidelines for creating privacy policies tailored to your app's specific needs.

Pros:

• Builds trust and credibility with your app users.
• Demonstrates your commitment to protecting user privacy.
• Compliance with data protection regulations, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

Cons:

• Requires careful consideration and crafting to accurately reflect your app's data handling practices.
• May necessitate legal consultation, especially for complex apps with specific data processing requirements.

Creating App Screenshots and Preview Videos

To make your App Store listing more engaging and informative, it is crucial to create eye-catching screenshots and preview videos. Screenshots provide users with a glimpse of your app's interface and features, while preview videos demonstrate the app in action. Consider using tools like DaVinci Apps to add text overlays and graphics to your screenshots for better communication of features. Including app preview videos can significantly increase the chances of users downloading your app.

Pros:

• Visual representations help users understand the app's functionality and user experience.
• More engaging and captivating app listing that attracts potential users.
• Increased conversion rates and higher chances of app downloads.

Cons:

• Requires additional time and effort to create high-quality screenshots and videos.
• May require some design and video editing skills or the use of third-party tools.

Choosing App Store Categories and Keywords

When submitting your app to the App Store, selecting the right categories and using relevant keywords are crucial for its discoverability. Categorizing your app accurately ensures it shows up in search results and relevant listings. Conducting keyword research enables you to identify the terms users are likely to search for when looking for apps similar to yours. By incorporating these keywords strategically into your app listing, you can improve your app's visibility and attract the right audience.

Pros:

• Improves your app's visibility in search results and relevant category listings.
• Targets specific user needs and preferences with appropriate categorization and keywords.
• Increases the likelihood of getting discovered by potential users.

Cons:

• Requires thorough research and analysis to identify the most effective categories and keywords.
• Choosing inappropriate categories or using irrelevant keywords can harm your app's visibility.

Best Practices for App Store Listing Descriptions

App Store listing descriptions play a crucial role in persuading users to download your app. Craft an engaging and concise description that highlights the unique features and benefits of your app. Use clear and persuasive language, incorporate relevant keywords, and provide a compelling call to action. By making your app listing description informative and captivating, you can increase user interest and encourage downloads.

Pros:

• Draws potential users' Attention with a clear and concise app description.
• Provides a comprehensive overview of the app's features and benefits.
• Influences user decision-making and increases the chances of app downloads.

Cons:

• Writing persuasive app descriptions that effectively communicate key features can be challenging.
• Requires constant monitoring and updates to Align with market trends and user expectations.

In conclusion, submitting your app to the Apple App Store involves several essential steps, including enrolling in the Apple Developer Program, meeting App Store certification requirements, and optimizing your app store listing. By following the step-by-step process outlined in this article and implementing best practices for app store optimization, you can increase your chances of success in the App Store.

Now that you have a comprehensive understanding of the submission process and the importance of different elements in your app store listing, it's time to take action. Whether you're a seasoned app developer or just starting, submitting your app to the Apple App Store is an exciting and rewarding experience. Good luck with your app submission Journey!

Highlights

• The Apple Developer Program is essential for app submission to the App Store, providing access to App Store Connect and certification resources.
• Following App Store guidelines and meeting quality thresholds are necessary for app approval.
• Enrolling in the Apple Developer Program costs $99 per year.
• App Store Optimization (ASO) strategies increase app visibility and attraction of organic downloads.
• Privacy policies are crucial to build user trust and comply with data protection regulations.
• Creating compelling screenshots and preview videos enhances app listing engagement.
• Choosing relevant categories and keywords improves app visibility in search results.
• Crafting a persuasive app store listing description influences user decision-making.
• The submission process involves provisioning profiles, App Store Connect, Xcode, and the review and approval process.
• App development FAQs provide additional insights and answers to common questions.

FAQ

Q: Why is the Apple Developer Program necessary for app submission? A: The Apple Developer Program provides access to essential tools like App Store Connect, the platform for app submission, management, and analytics. It also offers resources and support for developers.

Q: What are the requirements for app approval in the App Store? A: To get your app approved, it must meet the guidelines outlined by Apple, including standards for content, design, functionality, and user experience. It should adhere to specific quality thresholds and not contain restricted content.

Q: How much does it cost to enroll in the Apple Developer Program? A: The Apple Developer Program has an annual fee of $99. This fee grants you access to various developer resources, including App Store Connect, where you can manage your app submissions and access sales and analytics data.

Q: What is App Store Optimization (ASO), and why is it important? A: App Store Optimization (ASO) is the process of optimizing your app's visibility and discoverability in the App Store. By implementing ASO strategies like keyword research, optimizing app listing descriptions, and creating appealing visuals, you can improve your app's rankings and attract organic downloads.

Q: Why is a privacy policy necessary for app submission? A: A privacy policy is essential for informing users of how their data will be handled within your app. It demonstrates your commitment to protecting user privacy and ensures compliance with data protection regulations. Providing a privacy policy builds trust and credibility with app users.

Q: How important are screenshots and preview videos in an app store listing? A: Screenshots and preview videos play a significant role in grabbing users' attention and demonstrating your app's key features. They provide visual representations and help users understand the app's functionality and user experience, increasing the chances of app downloads.

Q: How can I choose the right categories and keywords for my app? A: Selecting the appropriate app store categories and using relevant keywords is crucial for optimizing your app's discoverability. Conduct thorough keyword research to identify popular search terms and use them strategically in your app listing. Categorize your app accurately to ensure it appears in relevant search results and category listings.

Q: What are the best practices for writing an app store listing description? A: An engaging and concise app store listing description is vital for enticing users to download your app. Use clear and persuasive language, highlight unique features and benefits, and incorporate relevant keywords. Craft a description that provides a comprehensive overview of your app while influencing user decision-making.