Tips to get your iPhone app approved at the App Store

Mobile Application Development

Developing an iPhone application is not easy but not too hard a task to try either. The Software Development Kit (SDK) of Apple has simplified iPhone applications development and lets even novices develop mobile applications. However, the SDK is also a concern for iPhone app developers as it needs to be strictly followed to ensure that the application features at iTunes. Moreover, Human Interface Guidelines and App Store Review Guidelines can also be stumbling block towards approval of an application.

Apple’s approach towards application approval is highly user-centric, unlike Google’s. Therefore, developers have tough time with Apple as they have to take care of various aspects to get an iPhone application approved for iTunes. There are certain things that iPhone app developers should be careful about to increase chances of application approval.

Apple Graphics – Icons of images of Apple are really beautiful but not to be used in iPhone applications development. Developers may tend to think that Apple may be flattered to find its own icons and images but that is not the case at all.

Apple Purchasing API – For applications that accept money for products or services, it is necessary to use Apples’ in-app Application Programming Interface (API) for monetary transactions. Cordova plug-in is required for it too. If the in-app API is omitted for purchase/sales, the application is bound to be disapproved.

Beta or Demo – Apple does not believe in trial applications, even though they are logical reality. So, iPhone app developers should avoid inclusion of terms such as demo and beta. They can refine their applications but not launch one as trial version.

Connectivity Independence – iPhone app developers must make applications as much independent of internet connectivity as possible. Those applications which only work when connected are not highly regarded by Apple.

Fast Loading – Applications that take more than 10 seconds for initial loading do not get approved. It is rather blessing in disguise as iPhone app developers can improve the performance of their product.

Guidelines – Human Interface Guidelines of Apple have to be religiously followed. Even slightest negligence towards it can prevent the application from reaching iTunes.

Manageable Size – Every effort should be made to keep the iPhone application small in size. Any application above 50MB has invited trouble for itself. Lossy compression can be carried out on those applications that contain lots of images.

Minimum Download – Not all users have unlimited data plans and so, Apple does appreciate applications that download huge amount of data every time they are opened. iPhone applications development must ensure minimum-possible download.

Originality – It is almost impossible to be 100% original in iPhone applications development, especially for individuals and small development companies. However, they must ensure that similarities exist only up to the level of basic idea and general purpose. A total copy gets rejected.

Relevance and Usefulness – Developers should conceptualise applications for wider population and with great usefulness. An iPhone application that is developed for very limited number of people may get rejected.

Conclusively, it has to be said that even the best applications may face rejection but following these tips increases chances of relatively quick appearance on iTunes.