Mobile App Deveploment

Overcoming App Store Rejection: 10 Common Reasons and Solutions

App store rejections are common but avoidable. Understand top rejection reasons, like performance issues or non-compliance, and fix them effectively to meet guidelines. Learn smart solutions to streamline your app’s approval process and achieve success.

An app developer who reaches the last mile of putting their hard work into an application before uploading it to either the App Store or Google Play Store can feel great excitement. Unfortunately, when rejection of the submitted application is inevitable in the course of app submission, frustration begins. The reasons behind the rejection, while applying both iOS and Android, are also because of guidelines in both places that if one’s application is not according to their guidelines, they simply reject your app.

This blog post explores 10 common app store rejections, offering practical solutions and guidance on navigating the app store submission process. We’ll also discuss how a mobile app development company can streamline this process and ensure your app meets all necessary standards.

1. Insufficient Functionality or Value

The most common grounds for the rejection of an app are that it has too little functionality and value. An application merely serving as a “shell” or providing too little value to users will probably be turned down.

Solution: Your app must provide clear value to users by solving a problem or enhancing their experience. Focus on functionality and ensure your app offers something meaningful to users. As an iOS or Android developer, rigorously test core features before submission to identify and rectify any issues.

2. Bad User Interface (UI) and User Experience (UX)

Bad User Interface (UI) and User Experience (UX)

An app with a bad interface design or a very complicated user experience will most probably be rejected. The app stores expect apps to be seamless and intuitive for users.

Solution: Concentrate on the clean and intuitive UI design. Engage the services of a UI/UX professional or ask your mobile app development company to design a user-friendly interface. The easier the app can be navigated, the higher the chances of passing the review.

3. Violation of App Store Guidelines

App Store and Google Play Store app submission have guidelines that a developer has to submit with, which sometimes violates content, privacy, or security, hence resulting in rejection.

Solution: Before submitting your app, carefully review the app store submission guidelines for both iOS and Android. If uncertain about compliance, consult with experienced iOS or Android developers. These guidelines are subject to change without notice; therefore, consult them regularly for updates.

4. Technical Issues or Bugs

Technical Issues or Bugs

Technical problems, crashes, or bugs in your application are major causes of rejection. The app stores expect apps to perform well without too many bugs or glitches.

Solution: Prioritize rigorous testing, including usability tests and cross-platform compatibility checks, to ensure all features function as intended. If engaging a development company, emphasize the critical importance of robust quality assurance procedures throughout the development cycle to proactively address potential issues.

5. Missing or Incomplete App Information

Providing correct and appropriate submission details like app descriptions, screenshots, icons, and ratings is essential for both the App Store and Google Play Store. Missing or incomplete information will ultimately have the outcome of rejection of its application submission.

Solution: Ensure that all required fields and information are complete before submitting your app. This includes an accurate description, relevant screenshots, an engaging app icon, and appropriate rating classifications. Double-check everything to avoid unnecessary delays.

6. Copyright or Intellectual Property Issues

Any app that includes copyrighted material without permission or violates intellectual property rights will not be accepted. This may involve images, text, or code that you are not licensed to distribute.

Solution: Make sure all content within your app is either original or properly licensed. Third-party libraries, assets, and APIs must be licensed in the proper way. If you are not certain regarding the intellectual property rights to any third-party resource, consult a legal expert before submitting your application.

7. Privacy Policy and Data Security

If your application collects any kind of user data, then a robust privacy policy is to be submitted to the App Store and the Google Play Store. Without a clear privacy policy or with an incomplete one, it is very likely that an app will be rejected.

Solution: Your privacy policy must be clear, concise, and easily understandable to all users. It should clearly outline how your application collects, uses, and protects user data. Ensure your policy and application comply with all relevant regulations, including GDPR and CCPA. If necessary, consult with a mobile app development company specializing in privacy and security to ensure your application meets all standards.

8. Spammy or Misleading Content

Apps having misleading descriptions or spammy content tend to get rejected. App stores aim to keep a high-quality level in avoiding fraud or low-quality applications for users.

Solution: Avoid the use of deceptive keywords or content in your app’s description, title, or metadata. Be transparent about your app’s functionality and features. Focus on the authenticity and honesty of your representation of your app, reflecting the true value for users.

9. Unresponsive or Inactive App

Applications that haven’t been updated after a long time or haven’t functioned properly will be rejected from the store for being inactive. An application always needs to be updated to qualify for its existence in the store.

Solution: Occasionally, update your application with bug fixes, enhancements, and new features. Be an active maintainer of your app, attending to user feedback so that the app can continually cater to your audience. An active application signifies that you care for the user experience.

10. App Store Rejection Reply or Resubmit

If your app gets rejected, you can send an app store rejection reply or resubmit it after you are done addressing the issues that were mentioned by the review team. Not all rejections are final, and developers can appeal and try again to fix the problem.

Solution: If your application is rejected, then carefully go through the reasons given by the review team. Then you could address those problems and make a change. So, once you feel your app is ready to be published after resubmitting for a review, explain clearly all the changes during resubmission. That could speed up the process.

Final Words


App Store rejection can be a significant setback for iOS and Android app developers. At Shiv Technolabs, we understand these challenges and are dedicated to helping you navigate the submission process successfully.

Our team of experienced developers possesses the expertise to ensure your app meets all necessary guidelines and quality standards. We offer comprehensive mobile app development services to minimize rejection risks and maximize your chances of app store success. Let us help turn your app vision into a reality.

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Written by

Kishan Mehta

I am a dynamic and visionary Managing Director of Shiv Technolabs, a leading IT company at the forefront of innovation. With over a decade of hands-on experience in mobile app development, web development, and eCommerce solutions, I am a qualified professional. My expertise goes beyond technical proficiency, containing a keen understanding of evolving market dynamics. I have successfully delivered exceptional IT solutions, catering to the unique needs of entrepreneurs and businesses across diverse industries.