Guide
What gets apps stuck in App Store and Google Play review?
Most review delays come from a few predictable things: the reviewer can't get in, something looks unfinished, account deletion is missing, the privacy details don't match the app, or, on Google Play, a new account hasn't finished its required test.
In short
- Let the reviewer in: a working demo account, or a demo mode, for anything behind a login.
- Ship it finished: no placeholder text, broken links, or "coming soon" screens.
- Account deletion: if users can create an account, they need a way to delete it in the app.
- Privacy details that match: what the app collects must match what the listing says.
- Google Play's test: new personal developer accounts need a closed test with at least 12 testers opted in for 14 days in a row.
Apple App Store: the usual sticking points
- App completeness (guideline 2.1): the reviewer must be able to use every feature. Give a demo account and notes on where to look.
- Minimum functionality (guideline 4.2): an app that is only a wrapped website, or does very little, can be rejected.
- Account deletion (guideline 5.1.1(v)): apps that support account creation must let users start deleting their account inside the app.
- Accurate listing: screenshots should show the app in use, on each device type you support.
- Purchases: digital content and subscriptions sold in the app generally go through Apple's in-app purchase.
Google Play: the usual sticking points
- Closed test for new accounts: personal developer accounts created after November 13, 2023 must run a closed test with at least 12 testers opted in continuously for 14 days before applying for production. Plan two-plus weeks for it.
- Data safety form: it must match what the app and its SDKs actually collect.
- Permissions: ask only for what the app uses, and explain why.
A pre-submission checklist
- Demo account works, with review notes.
- Every screen finished; no test content.
- Account deletion reachable in the app.
- Privacy labels and data safety form match the app.
- Screenshots for every device type you support.
- Same version number on both stores.
- For a new Google Play account: closed test started at least 14 days before launch.
Who handles this for you
We submit and update our own apps, Metro X, My Permit Pass and UVUV, and handle the same for clients: listings, screenshots, privacy details, submission and review. See app development.
Common questions
Why was my app rejected for a missing demo account?
Apple's reviewers need to use every feature (guideline 2.1). If the app has a login, provide a working demo account and notes, or a demo mode.
Do I need in-app account deletion?
On the App Store, yes, if the app lets users create an account (guideline 5.1.1(v)). Users must be able to start deleting their account inside the app.
What is Google Play's 12-tester rule?
Personal developer accounts created after November 13, 2023 must run a closed test with at least 12 testers who stay opted in for 14 days in a row before they can apply for production access.
Can someone handle App Store and Google Play submission for me?
Yes. Nabee Studio handles store listings, screenshots, privacy details, submission, review and updates as part of its app add-on.