App Review

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App review is the process of evaluating apps and app updates submitted to the App Store to ensure they are reliable, perform as expected, and follow Apple guidelines.

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Handling ITMS-91061: Missing privacy manifest
An ITMS-91061: Missing privacy manifest rejection email looks as follows: ITMS-91061: Missing privacy manifest- Your app includes "<path/to/SDK>", which includes , an SDK that was identified in the documentation as a privacy-impacting third-party SDK. Starting February 12, 2025, if a new app includes a privacy-impacting SDK, or an app update adds a new privacy-impacting SDK, the SDK must include a privacy manifest file. Please contact the provider of the SDK that includes this file to get an updated SDK version with a privacy manifest. For more details about this policy, including a list of SDKs that are required to include signatures and manifests, visit: https://developer.apple.com/support/third-party-SDK-requirements. Glossary ITMS-91061: Missing privacy manifest: An email that includes the name and path of privacy-impacting SDK(s) with no privacy manifest files in your app bundle. For more information, see https://developer.apple.com/support/third-party-SDK-requirements. : The specified privacy-impacting SDK that doesn't include a privacy manifest file. If you are the developer of the rejected app, gather the name of the SDK from the email you received from Apple, then contact the SDK's provider for an updated version that includes a valid privacy manifest. After receiving an updated version of the SDK, verify the SDK includes a valid privacy manifest file at the expected location. For more information, see Adding a privacy manifest to your app or third-party SDK. If your app includes a privacy manifest file, make sure the file only describes the privacy practices of your app. Do not add the privacy practices of the SDK to your app's privacy manifest. If the email lists multiple SDKs, repeat the above process for all of them. If you are the developer of an SDK listed in the email, publish an updated version of your SDK that includes a privacy manifest file with valid keys and values. Every privacy-impacting SDK must contain a privacy manifest file that only describes its privacy practices. To learn how to add a valid privacy manifest to your SDK, see the Additional resources section below. Additional resources Privacy manifest files Describing data use in privacy manifests Describing use of required reason API Adding a privacy manifest to your app or third-party SDK TN3182: Adding privacy tracking keys to your privacy manifest TN3183: Adding required reason API entries to your privacy manifest TN3184: Adding data collection details to your privacy manifest TN3181: Debugging an invalid privacy manifest
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6.3k
Mar ’25
Preventing Copycat and Impersonation Rejections
In this post, we'll share tips to help you submit apps that deliver original ideas to your users. When working on your app, focus on creating interesting, unique experiences that aren't already available. Apps that actively try to copy other apps won't pass review, and accounts that repeatedly submit copycat apps or attempt to impersonate a service will be closed. The rules that prevent copycat and impersonator apps from being distributed on the App Store are described in App Review Guideline 4.1: 4.1 Copycats (a) Come up with your own ideas. We know you have them, so make yours come to life. Don’t simply copy the latest popular app on the App Store, or make some minor changes to another app’s name or UI and pass it off as your own. In addition to risking an intellectual property infringement claim, it makes the App Store harder to navigate and just isn’t fair to your fellow developers. (b) Submitting apps which impersonate other apps or services is considered a violation of the Developer Code of Conduct and may result in removal from the Apple Developer Program.(c) You cannot use another developer’s icon, brand, or product name in your app’s icon or name, without approval from the developer. These requirements help make the App Store both a safe place for people to discover apps and a platform for all developers to be successful. Best Practices Here are three best practices that will help you submit apps that follow App Review Guideline 4.1: 1. Submit apps with unique content and features. People want apps that provide unique experiences. Find areas that aren't currently being served and build compelling apps for those audiences. Do: Create apps that provide a new experience or a unique spin on an existing concept. Design original, delightful interfaces that elegantly meet your user's needs. Don't: Don’t imitate the features and functionality of other apps. Don’t copy the look and feel of other apps, such as using an identical user interface design. 2. Make sure App Store metadata only contains relevant information and content you either own or have permission to use. The metadata provided in App Store Connect is used to populate your app's product page on the App Store. People rely on this metadata to learn about your app and what it has to offer. Leveraging the popularity of another brand or app, either by including irrelevant references or protected content, is misleading and won't help your app succeed. Do: Use engaging, descriptive language to describe your unique app. Create original content that best represents your app, such as screenshots showing the actual app in use. Don't: Don't use protected material you do not have the necessary permission to use, such as app icons that are similar to icons of a popular app. Don’t include irrelevant references, such as popular app names or trademarked terms, in any metadata fields. 3. Provide information that is authentic and verifiable. People want to know the developers behind their favorite apps are who they say they are. It's important to continually review and provide up-to-date information, including the developer or company name listed on your Apple Developer Program account, the Support URL listed on your app's product page, and other helpful information. This will enable your users to contact you when they need help and it will also hinder people who may try to impersonate you, your app, or your service. Do: Make sure all information, resources, and documentation related to your account and apps are current and accurate. Don't: Don’t provide inaccurate information or resources, such as directing people to outdated support pages. Don’t provide fraudulent documentation. Accounts that submit fraudulent documentation will be removed from the Apple Developer Program. Support Incorporating these best practices into your app's development will help you submit apps that follow App Review Guideline 4.1. If you need additional assistance, consider taking advantage of one of the following support options available from App Review: If your submission has been rejected, reply to the message from App Review in App Store Connect and request clarification. Request an App Review Appointment to discuss the results of our review. Appointments are subject to availability, and take place during local business hours in your region on Tuesdays and Thursdays. If you believe your app follows the App Review Guidelines, consider submitting an appeal to the App Review Board. Resources Learn about foundational design principles from Apple designers and the developer community. Learn how to create engaging App Store product pages. Note that apps that violate intellectual property rights are subject to removal through the App Store Content Dispute process. If you believe an app on the App Store violates your intellectual property rights, you can submit a claim.
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3.2k
Nov ’25
App rejected 13+ times for UIRequiredDeviceCapabilities after adding DeviceActivity extensions — what am I missing?
I've been stuck on Guideline 2.3 for two weeks now and I'm running out of ideas. My app is iPhone-only (UIDeviceFamily = [1]) and has been on the App Store since January. Version 2.1.9 passed review fine. The only change in 2.1.10 is adding two DeviceActivity extensions — a DeviceActivityMonitor and a DeviceActivityReport — for screen time-based stress detection. Every build since then gets rejected with the same message: "The UIRequiredDeviceCapabilities key in the Info.plist is set up in such a way that the app will not install on the device used in review." Review devices: iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, iPad Air M3. Here's what I've tried across 13+ submissions: UIRequiredDeviceCapabilities as ["arm64"] (array) — rejected Empty array [] — rejected Removed the key entirely — upload validation fails, Xcode re-injects arm64 anyway Post-build script to force ["arm64"] — rejected Dictionary format {"arm64": true} — rejected Added com.apple.developer.family-controls to extension entitlements — rejected Enabled Family Controls (Distribution) on extension bundle IDs — rejected Fixed CFBundleVersion mismatch between host app and extensions — rejected Set TARGETED_DEVICE_FAMILY=1 on all targets including extensions — rejected Tried GENERATE_INFOPLIST_FILE=YES with minimal plists — rejected Tried ExtensionKit type for the report extension — rejected In the exported IPA, every target has UIRequiredDeviceCapabilities = ["arm64"] and UIDeviceFamily = [1]. The entitlements, provisioning profiles, and code signing all look correct. arm64 is supported on every review device they listed. The previous version (2.1.9) without DeviceActivity extensions passes review with the exact same UIRequiredDeviceCapabilities and signing configuration. Has anyone shipped an app with DeviceActivityMonitor + DeviceActivityReport extensions successfully? Is there something specific about these extension types that affects device capability validation? Or is there a known issue with the review system and FamilyControls extensions? I've replied to the review team multiple times asking which specific capability is causing the failure, but the response is always the same generic template. Any guidance would be really appreciated — I'm completely blocked on shipping this update.
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Why are the Apple App Reviewers making false claims in the review and what can I do to overcome this?!
My app has the phrase GPT in it as it is an app that runs private open source offline AI models (for free) on the iPhone. The app is called LiberaGPT. I have released my first version without issue and it was distributed to the Mainland China store. I made some small updates including accessibility features etc and released my next version. The reviewer is now accusing my app of using OpenAI's ChatGPT even though they can see the source code and my app is entirely offline using local AI inference rather than cloud inference. It is now a back and forth of me explaining over and over that my app is nothing to do with ChatGPT that GPT is a term used in the field of AI to describe certain types of LLM's and is nothing to do with 'ChatGPT' which is a brand. It is like saying you can't say 'AI' because of 'OpenAI' this makes no sense. I am literally at my witts end as I've poured so much time and energy into developing this app and it is now available on the app store but they won't let me update it and are essentially gaslighting me by saying that the term GPT cannot be used because it belongs to ChatGPT when it doesn't. There are numerous apps (including my previous version which ironically is live in the store that contain GPT in the app name without issue. GPT stands for 'Generative Pre-trained Transformer' and is a description of a technology not a brand. Is there anything I can do? No matter how many times I clarify, provide evidence, try to explain my position, they keep just copy and pasting the same response over and over that my app cannot be published in mainland China as OpenAI's ChatGPT is banned there and that my app is using OpenAI's ChatGPT in the software WHICH IT ISNT!!! THERE IS NO CLOUD DATA CONNECTION. Any help would be greatly appreciated, hopefully I don't pull all my hair out. Thanks, Stephen
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No response and stuck in waiting for review
Hello, app name: raw films app id: 6761117809 I need some help or guidance. I submitted my app on 25 of March and it got rejected due to guideline 2.1b, the reviewer couldn’t locate the button to unlock the premium filters with in-app purchase. I provided them screenshots and exact steps to locate the filters on 26 of March, and no response since then. I resubmitted the app on 30th of March, but still no response in App Store Connect messages, I requested help from support via email, but again no response. :( Can anyone help me with an advice? Thank you..
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Request for Clearer App Review Feedback and Faster Review
Hello Apple Developer Forums team, I would like to ask for help with my app review (App ID: 6755685130). I first submitted my app on February 14, 2026, and it has been almost 50 days. However, I still have not received clear feedback on what needs to be fixed. If there are issues with my app, I sincerely ask the review team not to provide only general guideline references. I still cannot tell which page, feature, or user flow is causing the problem. If possible, I would really appreciate screenshots, screen recordings, or a written description of the specific issue so I can make the right changes. I also want to clarify that this app is not AI-generated. It is a carefully planned app built with real effort using multiple native Swift frameworks. Thank you very much for your time and help.
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Escalation Request – Extended “Waiting for Review” Status
Hello, I would like to request an escalation regarding my app review status. My app (Apple ID: 6758756966) was submitted for review on February 24 and has been in “Waiting for Review” status for an extended period, with no progress so far. I have contacted Apple Developer Support multiple times (Case IDs: 102840237455, 102840079647, 102846664998, 102841727941) starting from March 9, but unfortunately, I have not received any response to any of these requests. I have also submitted three expedited review requests, but none of them have been acknowledged. Could you please: • confirm whether the submission is still active in the queue • check if there are any issues preventing it from moving forward • and assist in escalating the review if possible If any additional information is required from my side, I am ready to provide it immediately. Thank you very much for your time and support.
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App Store version stuck after Pending Developer Release – cannot add builds or create new versions
Hello everyone, I’m running into a situation in App Store Connect that appears to be a backend lock related to an approved version, and I’m looking for confirmation or similar experiences. Context: App had version 1.2.6 Version progressed to Pending Developer Release Before releasing to users, I chose Developer Reject I then edited the version number (to 1.2.7) Current State / Issue: After this, App Store Connect is effectively blocked: ❌ Cannot associate any builds to the version ❌ Uploading a build with the same version and higher build number does not help ❌ Cannot create a fresh version (no “+ Version” button is visible) ❌ App Store Connect API returns: ENTITY_ERROR.RELATIONSHIP.INVALID ❌ Remove Version / Delete Version is not available Even attempting brand‑new version numbers does not work. It looks like App Store Connect still considers the previously approved Pending Developer Release version to be active and locked internally. What I understand so far From my understanding: Once a version reaches Pending Developer Release, the appStoreVersion record becomes finalized Editing the version number does not truly create a new version Developer rejection does not unlock the version–build relationship Only one approved / pending version is allowed per app This seems to leave the app in a state where no new versions can be created without backend intervention. Question Can anyone confirm: That once a version reaches Pending Developer Release, it can only be reset or removed by App Store Connect Support, and That there is no self‑service workaround (UI, API, CI, or Transporter) to recover from this state? If anyone has gone through this and successfully had Apple reset the appStoreVersion record, I’d appreciate confirmation or tips on getting it routed correctly. Thanks in advance.
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App Review stuck for weeks on individual account, expedite requests ignored, multiple apps affected
Hello everyone, I am trying to understand whether this is a normal delay or if there may be an account-level review issue affecting my submissions. I am an individual developer. I submitted my first app for review on March 14, 2026. It remained without a meaningful response until March 31, 2026. During this time, I sent three expedite review requests, but none of them helped. Because nothing moved, I withdrew the previous submission and uploaded a third build for the same app. However, the app is still stuck in review flow. At the same time, I submitted my second app on March 22, 2026. I also requested an expedite review for that app, but it is still in Waiting for Review as well. So currently: • App 1 was first submitted on March 14, 2026 • Multiple expedite requests were sent • The original submission was withdrawn and a new build was submitted • App 2 was submitted on March 22, 2026 • Both apps have been heavily delayed • One is still in review flow, and the other is still Waiting for Review I would like to ask: 1. Has anyone experienced this kind of delay on an individual account, especially with multiple apps at the same time? 2. Could this indicate an account-level issue, manual queue hold, or some kind of hidden review flag? 3. Is there any effective way to escalate this beyond normal expedite requests? 4. Would contacting App Review again help, or is there another correct channel for this situation? 5. If I withdraw and resubmit again, is there any chance that it makes the delay worse? I am not asking for special treatment. I am only trying to understand what may be causing such an unusual delay and what the most effective next step is. Any insight from developers who faced a similar situation would be very helpful. Thank you.
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App Review response and wait time
Hello, I have been waiting for a response for 7 days now, I have resubmitted my app (photo editing app) for review. First my app was declined due to guideline 2.1(b), stating that they cannot find a filter with a lock button to test the in app-purchase. I have sent a screenshot for the reviewers and exact steps how to find those filters, this was last Thursday and still haven't received a response. I also sent a support request on Monday (30th of March), but still no response. Can you please help me with an advice? Thank you in advance.
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I have submitted my app and it has been waiting for review.
I have submitted my app and it has been waiting for review. I am the owner of the App and I applied for expedited review, but it didn't work. The version we submitted updated the information of the App. We consulted Apple and asked to continue waiting by using "Contact Us". I also submitted the information and they said to wait further. So we can only seek help from the reviewers here. Application ID: d6479289380
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Apple Guideline 5.2.2
I'm unclear on the implications of Apple's App Review Guideline 5.2.2: If your app uses, accesses, monetizes access to, or displays content from a third-party service, ensure that you are specifically permitted to do so under the service’s terms of use. Authorization must be provided upon request. If a paid subscription app uses a licensed search API to retrieve and display links to publicly available third-party web content, is the API license generally enough for compliance? Or does Apple expect separate authorization from each underlying website whose content appears in the search results?
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Pending Termination Notice (Guideline 5.6, Section 3.2(f)) – No Response After 14 Days – Case 30000003321343
Hello, I am seeking guidance regarding a Pending Termination Notice received on March 18, 2026 for the developer account of Kaagapay Platform Inc. Background: Our app, CreditKaagapay: Score & Report (App ID: 6744999391), is a credit report and loan matching platform operating in the Philippines in partnership with the Credit Information Corporation (CIC). The app maintained a 4.8-star rating with over 4,000 reviews. No prior warnings were issued before the notice. Notice Details: The notice cited Guideline 5.6 and Section 3.2(f), alleging dishonest or fraudulent activity related to account information. Timeline: • March 18: Received the Pending Termination Notice. Submitted two appeals (App Removal + Pending Account Termination) on the same day. Both received on-screen confirmation. • March 25: Submitted a follow-up through the App Review Status contact form. • March 26: Developer Support confirmed the appeal was forwarded to the App Review Board (Case ID: 30000003321343). • April 1 (today, Day 14): No response received from the App Review Board. Questions: Is there a way to confirm that our appeals are currently under review by the App Review Board? Are there any additional steps we should take to bring this to the Board's attention? Is there any mechanism to submit supplementary documentation, as the appeal form did not support attachments? We remain fully committed to compliance and ready to provide any additional information requested. Thank you for any guidance. Yifu Zhang, Account Holder Case ID: 30000003321343
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My App stuck in "Waiting for Review" two week
Hello everyone, My app (ID: 6756186616) was submitted on Mar 15, 2026, and has been stuck in "Waiting for Review" status for over 17 days. I contacted Developer Support (case #20000111565861) and received confirmation that it's proceeding normally, but no update since. On average, Apple reviews 90 percent of apps within 24 hours. However, there might be cases that need more review time, but mine exceeds two week. Any recent experiences with long queues? Thanks!
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Upload new binary for In-App Purchase(s) review?
Hello,I got the following message the second time. I dont know what to do.My app is reviewed and live, but my in app purchases are rejected. I read the message and was wondering about that. This did not happend with my non subscription iaps. I submitted a new "fake" binary with new version and in app purchases again.My app is reviewed and live with new version. My purchases not. I got this message again.We have begun the review of your In-App Purchase(s) but aren't able to continue because your submitted In-App Purchase(s) indicate a change of business model for your app. Therefore, we need to verify the implementation of your submitted In-App Purchase(s) in the app to ensure your app, and its In-App Purchase(s), are in compliance with the App Store Review Guidelines.Specifically, you have submitted auto-renewing subscriptions for review.Please upload a new binary for review and resubmit your In-App Purchase(s) with the binary so that we can continue the review.What to do?
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App review stuck on the "In review" for 10 days now
Dear App Review Team, Our app – Apple ID 6755677576 has been stuck in the “In review” status for over 10 days (since March 17, 2026). Normally, reviews begin within a few days, but in our case, it seems unusually delayed. Could you please clarify: • Is there a specific reason for this extended hold? • Is any action required from our side? • When can we expect the review to proceed? Thank you very much for your time and assistance.
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App stuck in "Waiting for Review" for over a month with no response
Hello, I would really appreciate if someone from Apple could take a look at this, as I believe there may be an issue with my submission or account. I submitted my app for review for the first time over a month ago, and it has been stuck in “Waiting for Review” ever since, with absolutely no updates. This delay is far beyond the typical review timeframes (which are usually just a few days). I have not received any rejection, feedback, or request for additional information. So far, I have already: Resubmitted the build Sent multiple support requests through App Store Connect Requested an expedited review (which was approved) Despite all of this, there has been no progress at all. I have also sent several support messages and emails, but unfortunately I have not received any response so far. It feels like my case is not being reviewed at all, which makes it very difficult to understand what is going wrong. The app is quite standard and does not contain anything that should require extended review. At this point, I am concerned that there might be: An issue with my developer account A submission stuck in the review queue Or some kind of internal flag that I am not aware of Has anyone experienced a similar situation where an app remained in “Waiting for Review” for over a month? And if anyone from Apple is reading this, could you please check if there is any issue with my submission? Any help or guidance would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
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App stuck in "Waiting for Review" for over two weeks
Hello, I would really appreciate if someone from Apple could take a look at this, as I believe there may be an issue with my submission or account. I submitted my app for review for the first time over a month ago, and it has been stuck in “Waiting for Review” ever since, with absolutely no updates. This delay is far beyond the typical review timeframes (which are usually just a few days). I have not received any rejection, feedback, or request for additional information. So far, I have already: Resubmitted the build Sent multiple support requests through App Store Connect Requested an expedited review (which was approved) Despite all of this, there has been no progress at all. I have also sent several support messages and emails, but unfortunately I have not received any response so far. It feels like my case is not being reviewed at all, which makes it very difficult to understand what is going wrong. The app is quite standard and does not contain anything that should require extended review. At this point, I am concerned that there might be: An issue with my developer account A submission stuck in the review queue Or some kind of internal flag that I am not aware of Has anyone experienced a similar situation where an app remained in “Waiting for Review” for over a month? And if anyone from Apple is reading this, could you please check if there is any issue with my submission? Any help or guidance would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
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App stuck in "Waiting for Review" for over a month with no response
Hello, I would really appreciate if someone from Apple could take a look at this, as I believe there may be an issue with my submission or account. I submitted my app for review for the first time over a month ago, and it has been stuck in “Waiting for Review” ever since, with absolutely no updates. This delay is far beyond the typical review timeframes (which are usually just a few days). I have not received any rejection, feedback, or request for additional information. So far, I have already: Resubmitted the build Sent multiple support requests through App Store Connect Requested an expedited review (which was approved) Despite all of this, there has been no progress at all. I have also sent several support messages and emails, but unfortunately I have not received any response so far. It feels like my case is not being reviewed at all, which makes it very difficult to understand what is going wrong. The app is quite standard and does not contain anything that should require extended review. At this point, I am concerned that there might be: An issue with my developer account A submission stuck in the review queue Or some kind of internal flag that I am not aware of Has anyone experienced a similar situation where an app remained in “Waiting for Review” for over a month? And if anyone from Apple is reading this, could you please check if there is any issue with my submission? Any help or guidance would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
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App stuck in "Waiting for Review" for 8+ days (Expedited Request submitted)
Hi everyone, I am looking for some guidance on a delayed review for a new app launch. Our app, Vibe: Real-Time Social Radar (App ID: 6758596460), has been stuck in the "Waiting for Review" status since March 22nd. Here is the context: It is version 1.0.1. Prior to March 22, we had removed our submission a few times to fix minor metadata issues before the review started. I understand this resets our place in the queue. We have just submitted an Expedited Review request due to an upcoming launch deadline. My question: Does removing a submission multiple times trigger an automated "spam" hold or push the app into a longer Senior Review queue? Is there anything else I can do via App Store Connect to ensure the reviewer has what they need, or do I just need to wait for the Expedited Review team to respond? Any insights from developers who have experienced a similar delay recently would be greatly appreciated!
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Handling ITMS-91061: Missing privacy manifest
An ITMS-91061: Missing privacy manifest rejection email looks as follows: ITMS-91061: Missing privacy manifest- Your app includes "<path/to/SDK>", which includes , an SDK that was identified in the documentation as a privacy-impacting third-party SDK. Starting February 12, 2025, if a new app includes a privacy-impacting SDK, or an app update adds a new privacy-impacting SDK, the SDK must include a privacy manifest file. Please contact the provider of the SDK that includes this file to get an updated SDK version with a privacy manifest. For more details about this policy, including a list of SDKs that are required to include signatures and manifests, visit: https://developer.apple.com/support/third-party-SDK-requirements. Glossary ITMS-91061: Missing privacy manifest: An email that includes the name and path of privacy-impacting SDK(s) with no privacy manifest files in your app bundle. For more information, see https://developer.apple.com/support/third-party-SDK-requirements. : The specified privacy-impacting SDK that doesn't include a privacy manifest file. If you are the developer of the rejected app, gather the name of the SDK from the email you received from Apple, then contact the SDK's provider for an updated version that includes a valid privacy manifest. After receiving an updated version of the SDK, verify the SDK includes a valid privacy manifest file at the expected location. For more information, see Adding a privacy manifest to your app or third-party SDK. If your app includes a privacy manifest file, make sure the file only describes the privacy practices of your app. Do not add the privacy practices of the SDK to your app's privacy manifest. If the email lists multiple SDKs, repeat the above process for all of them. If you are the developer of an SDK listed in the email, publish an updated version of your SDK that includes a privacy manifest file with valid keys and values. Every privacy-impacting SDK must contain a privacy manifest file that only describes its privacy practices. To learn how to add a valid privacy manifest to your SDK, see the Additional resources section below. Additional resources Privacy manifest files Describing data use in privacy manifests Describing use of required reason API Adding a privacy manifest to your app or third-party SDK TN3182: Adding privacy tracking keys to your privacy manifest TN3183: Adding required reason API entries to your privacy manifest TN3184: Adding data collection details to your privacy manifest TN3181: Debugging an invalid privacy manifest
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6.3k
Activity
Mar ’25
Preventing Copycat and Impersonation Rejections
In this post, we'll share tips to help you submit apps that deliver original ideas to your users. When working on your app, focus on creating interesting, unique experiences that aren't already available. Apps that actively try to copy other apps won't pass review, and accounts that repeatedly submit copycat apps or attempt to impersonate a service will be closed. The rules that prevent copycat and impersonator apps from being distributed on the App Store are described in App Review Guideline 4.1: 4.1 Copycats (a) Come up with your own ideas. We know you have them, so make yours come to life. Don’t simply copy the latest popular app on the App Store, or make some minor changes to another app’s name or UI and pass it off as your own. In addition to risking an intellectual property infringement claim, it makes the App Store harder to navigate and just isn’t fair to your fellow developers. (b) Submitting apps which impersonate other apps or services is considered a violation of the Developer Code of Conduct and may result in removal from the Apple Developer Program.(c) You cannot use another developer’s icon, brand, or product name in your app’s icon or name, without approval from the developer. These requirements help make the App Store both a safe place for people to discover apps and a platform for all developers to be successful. Best Practices Here are three best practices that will help you submit apps that follow App Review Guideline 4.1: 1. Submit apps with unique content and features. People want apps that provide unique experiences. Find areas that aren't currently being served and build compelling apps for those audiences. Do: Create apps that provide a new experience or a unique spin on an existing concept. Design original, delightful interfaces that elegantly meet your user's needs. Don't: Don’t imitate the features and functionality of other apps. Don’t copy the look and feel of other apps, such as using an identical user interface design. 2. Make sure App Store metadata only contains relevant information and content you either own or have permission to use. The metadata provided in App Store Connect is used to populate your app's product page on the App Store. People rely on this metadata to learn about your app and what it has to offer. Leveraging the popularity of another brand or app, either by including irrelevant references or protected content, is misleading and won't help your app succeed. Do: Use engaging, descriptive language to describe your unique app. Create original content that best represents your app, such as screenshots showing the actual app in use. Don't: Don't use protected material you do not have the necessary permission to use, such as app icons that are similar to icons of a popular app. Don’t include irrelevant references, such as popular app names or trademarked terms, in any metadata fields. 3. Provide information that is authentic and verifiable. People want to know the developers behind their favorite apps are who they say they are. It's important to continually review and provide up-to-date information, including the developer or company name listed on your Apple Developer Program account, the Support URL listed on your app's product page, and other helpful information. This will enable your users to contact you when they need help and it will also hinder people who may try to impersonate you, your app, or your service. Do: Make sure all information, resources, and documentation related to your account and apps are current and accurate. Don't: Don’t provide inaccurate information or resources, such as directing people to outdated support pages. Don’t provide fraudulent documentation. Accounts that submit fraudulent documentation will be removed from the Apple Developer Program. Support Incorporating these best practices into your app's development will help you submit apps that follow App Review Guideline 4.1. If you need additional assistance, consider taking advantage of one of the following support options available from App Review: If your submission has been rejected, reply to the message from App Review in App Store Connect and request clarification. Request an App Review Appointment to discuss the results of our review. Appointments are subject to availability, and take place during local business hours in your region on Tuesdays and Thursdays. If you believe your app follows the App Review Guidelines, consider submitting an appeal to the App Review Board. Resources Learn about foundational design principles from Apple designers and the developer community. Learn how to create engaging App Store product pages. Note that apps that violate intellectual property rights are subject to removal through the App Store Content Dispute process. If you believe an app on the App Store violates your intellectual property rights, you can submit a claim.
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3.2k
Activity
Nov ’25
App rejected 13+ times for UIRequiredDeviceCapabilities after adding DeviceActivity extensions — what am I missing?
I've been stuck on Guideline 2.3 for two weeks now and I'm running out of ideas. My app is iPhone-only (UIDeviceFamily = [1]) and has been on the App Store since January. Version 2.1.9 passed review fine. The only change in 2.1.10 is adding two DeviceActivity extensions — a DeviceActivityMonitor and a DeviceActivityReport — for screen time-based stress detection. Every build since then gets rejected with the same message: "The UIRequiredDeviceCapabilities key in the Info.plist is set up in such a way that the app will not install on the device used in review." Review devices: iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, iPad Air M3. Here's what I've tried across 13+ submissions: UIRequiredDeviceCapabilities as ["arm64"] (array) — rejected Empty array [] — rejected Removed the key entirely — upload validation fails, Xcode re-injects arm64 anyway Post-build script to force ["arm64"] — rejected Dictionary format {"arm64": true} — rejected Added com.apple.developer.family-controls to extension entitlements — rejected Enabled Family Controls (Distribution) on extension bundle IDs — rejected Fixed CFBundleVersion mismatch between host app and extensions — rejected Set TARGETED_DEVICE_FAMILY=1 on all targets including extensions — rejected Tried GENERATE_INFOPLIST_FILE=YES with minimal plists — rejected Tried ExtensionKit type for the report extension — rejected In the exported IPA, every target has UIRequiredDeviceCapabilities = ["arm64"] and UIDeviceFamily = [1]. The entitlements, provisioning profiles, and code signing all look correct. arm64 is supported on every review device they listed. The previous version (2.1.9) without DeviceActivity extensions passes review with the exact same UIRequiredDeviceCapabilities and signing configuration. Has anyone shipped an app with DeviceActivityMonitor + DeviceActivityReport extensions successfully? Is there something specific about these extension types that affects device capability validation? Or is there a known issue with the review system and FamilyControls extensions? I've replied to the review team multiple times asking which specific capability is causing the failure, but the response is always the same generic template. Any guidance would be really appreciated — I'm completely blocked on shipping this update.
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36m
Why are the Apple App Reviewers making false claims in the review and what can I do to overcome this?!
My app has the phrase GPT in it as it is an app that runs private open source offline AI models (for free) on the iPhone. The app is called LiberaGPT. I have released my first version without issue and it was distributed to the Mainland China store. I made some small updates including accessibility features etc and released my next version. The reviewer is now accusing my app of using OpenAI's ChatGPT even though they can see the source code and my app is entirely offline using local AI inference rather than cloud inference. It is now a back and forth of me explaining over and over that my app is nothing to do with ChatGPT that GPT is a term used in the field of AI to describe certain types of LLM's and is nothing to do with 'ChatGPT' which is a brand. It is like saying you can't say 'AI' because of 'OpenAI' this makes no sense. I am literally at my witts end as I've poured so much time and energy into developing this app and it is now available on the app store but they won't let me update it and are essentially gaslighting me by saying that the term GPT cannot be used because it belongs to ChatGPT when it doesn't. There are numerous apps (including my previous version which ironically is live in the store that contain GPT in the app name without issue. GPT stands for 'Generative Pre-trained Transformer' and is a description of a technology not a brand. Is there anything I can do? No matter how many times I clarify, provide evidence, try to explain my position, they keep just copy and pasting the same response over and over that my app cannot be published in mainland China as OpenAI's ChatGPT is banned there and that my app is using OpenAI's ChatGPT in the software WHICH IT ISNT!!! THERE IS NO CLOUD DATA CONNECTION. Any help would be greatly appreciated, hopefully I don't pull all my hair out. Thanks, Stephen
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2
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51
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6h
No response and stuck in waiting for review
Hello, app name: raw films app id: 6761117809 I need some help or guidance. I submitted my app on 25 of March and it got rejected due to guideline 2.1b, the reviewer couldn’t locate the button to unlock the premium filters with in-app purchase. I provided them screenshots and exact steps to locate the filters on 26 of March, and no response since then. I resubmitted the app on 30th of March, but still no response in App Store Connect messages, I requested help from support via email, but again no response. :( Can anyone help me with an advice? Thank you..
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3
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27
Activity
6h
Request for Clearer App Review Feedback and Faster Review
Hello Apple Developer Forums team, I would like to ask for help with my app review (App ID: 6755685130). I first submitted my app on February 14, 2026, and it has been almost 50 days. However, I still have not received clear feedback on what needs to be fixed. If there are issues with my app, I sincerely ask the review team not to provide only general guideline references. I still cannot tell which page, feature, or user flow is causing the problem. If possible, I would really appreciate screenshots, screen recordings, or a written description of the specific issue so I can make the right changes. I also want to clarify that this app is not AI-generated. It is a carefully planned app built with real effort using multiple native Swift frameworks. Thank you very much for your time and help.
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3
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149
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6h
Escalation Request – Extended “Waiting for Review” Status
Hello, I would like to request an escalation regarding my app review status. My app (Apple ID: 6758756966) was submitted for review on February 24 and has been in “Waiting for Review” status for an extended period, with no progress so far. I have contacted Apple Developer Support multiple times (Case IDs: 102840237455, 102840079647, 102846664998, 102841727941) starting from March 9, but unfortunately, I have not received any response to any of these requests. I have also submitted three expedited review requests, but none of them have been acknowledged. Could you please: • confirm whether the submission is still active in the queue • check if there are any issues preventing it from moving forward • and assist in escalating the review if possible If any additional information is required from my side, I am ready to provide it immediately. Thank you very much for your time and support.
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3
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110
Activity
14h
App Store version stuck after Pending Developer Release – cannot add builds or create new versions
Hello everyone, I’m running into a situation in App Store Connect that appears to be a backend lock related to an approved version, and I’m looking for confirmation or similar experiences. Context: App had version 1.2.6 Version progressed to Pending Developer Release Before releasing to users, I chose Developer Reject I then edited the version number (to 1.2.7) Current State / Issue: After this, App Store Connect is effectively blocked: ❌ Cannot associate any builds to the version ❌ Uploading a build with the same version and higher build number does not help ❌ Cannot create a fresh version (no “+ Version” button is visible) ❌ App Store Connect API returns: ENTITY_ERROR.RELATIONSHIP.INVALID ❌ Remove Version / Delete Version is not available Even attempting brand‑new version numbers does not work. It looks like App Store Connect still considers the previously approved Pending Developer Release version to be active and locked internally. What I understand so far From my understanding: Once a version reaches Pending Developer Release, the appStoreVersion record becomes finalized Editing the version number does not truly create a new version Developer rejection does not unlock the version–build relationship Only one approved / pending version is allowed per app This seems to leave the app in a state where no new versions can be created without backend intervention. Question Can anyone confirm: That once a version reaches Pending Developer Release, it can only be reset or removed by App Store Connect Support, and That there is no self‑service workaround (UI, API, CI, or Transporter) to recover from this state? If anyone has gone through this and successfully had Apple reset the appStoreVersion record, I’d appreciate confirmation or tips on getting it routed correctly. Thanks in advance.
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16
Activity
14h
App Review stuck for weeks on individual account, expedite requests ignored, multiple apps affected
Hello everyone, I am trying to understand whether this is a normal delay or if there may be an account-level review issue affecting my submissions. I am an individual developer. I submitted my first app for review on March 14, 2026. It remained without a meaningful response until March 31, 2026. During this time, I sent three expedite review requests, but none of them helped. Because nothing moved, I withdrew the previous submission and uploaded a third build for the same app. However, the app is still stuck in review flow. At the same time, I submitted my second app on March 22, 2026. I also requested an expedite review for that app, but it is still in Waiting for Review as well. So currently: • App 1 was first submitted on March 14, 2026 • Multiple expedite requests were sent • The original submission was withdrawn and a new build was submitted • App 2 was submitted on March 22, 2026 • Both apps have been heavily delayed • One is still in review flow, and the other is still Waiting for Review I would like to ask: 1. Has anyone experienced this kind of delay on an individual account, especially with multiple apps at the same time? 2. Could this indicate an account-level issue, manual queue hold, or some kind of hidden review flag? 3. Is there any effective way to escalate this beyond normal expedite requests? 4. Would contacting App Review again help, or is there another correct channel for this situation? 5. If I withdraw and resubmit again, is there any chance that it makes the delay worse? I am not asking for special treatment. I am only trying to understand what may be causing such an unusual delay and what the most effective next step is. Any insight from developers who faced a similar situation would be very helpful. Thank you.
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3
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80
Activity
14h
Submission stuck in Waiting for Review
Hello, I’m writing you because my app submission has been in ‘Waiting for Review’ for longer than expected. My app id its : Apple ID: 6759054133 can you help me please? Best regards!
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2
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80
Activity
14h
App Review response and wait time
Hello, I have been waiting for a response for 7 days now, I have resubmitted my app (photo editing app) for review. First my app was declined due to guideline 2.1(b), stating that they cannot find a filter with a lock button to test the in app-purchase. I have sent a screenshot for the reviewers and exact steps how to find those filters, this was last Thursday and still haven't received a response. I also sent a support request on Monday (30th of March), but still no response. Can you please help me with an advice? Thank you in advance.
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0
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7
Activity
14h
I have submitted my app and it has been waiting for review.
I have submitted my app and it has been waiting for review. I am the owner of the App and I applied for expedited review, but it didn't work. The version we submitted updated the information of the App. We consulted Apple and asked to continue waiting by using "Contact Us". I also submitted the information and they said to wait further. So we can only seek help from the reviewers here. Application ID: d6479289380
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5
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76
Activity
14h
App Still “Waiting for Review''
Dear Sirs My app with ID 6758008521 is waiting for review since February, I'm concerned about the delay. Could you please provide an update on the review process.
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6
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242
Activity
19h
Apple Guideline 5.2.2
I'm unclear on the implications of Apple's App Review Guideline 5.2.2: If your app uses, accesses, monetizes access to, or displays content from a third-party service, ensure that you are specifically permitted to do so under the service’s terms of use. Authorization must be provided upon request. If a paid subscription app uses a licensed search API to retrieve and display links to publicly available third-party web content, is the API license generally enough for compliance? Or does Apple expect separate authorization from each underlying website whose content appears in the search results?
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210
Activity
1d
Pending Termination Notice (Guideline 5.6, Section 3.2(f)) – No Response After 14 Days – Case 30000003321343
Hello, I am seeking guidance regarding a Pending Termination Notice received on March 18, 2026 for the developer account of Kaagapay Platform Inc. Background: Our app, CreditKaagapay: Score & Report (App ID: 6744999391), is a credit report and loan matching platform operating in the Philippines in partnership with the Credit Information Corporation (CIC). The app maintained a 4.8-star rating with over 4,000 reviews. No prior warnings were issued before the notice. Notice Details: The notice cited Guideline 5.6 and Section 3.2(f), alleging dishonest or fraudulent activity related to account information. Timeline: • March 18: Received the Pending Termination Notice. Submitted two appeals (App Removal + Pending Account Termination) on the same day. Both received on-screen confirmation. • March 25: Submitted a follow-up through the App Review Status contact form. • March 26: Developer Support confirmed the appeal was forwarded to the App Review Board (Case ID: 30000003321343). • April 1 (today, Day 14): No response received from the App Review Board. Questions: Is there a way to confirm that our appeals are currently under review by the App Review Board? Are there any additional steps we should take to bring this to the Board's attention? Is there any mechanism to submit supplementary documentation, as the appeal form did not support attachments? We remain fully committed to compliance and ready to provide any additional information requested. Thank you for any guidance. Yifu Zhang, Account Holder Case ID: 30000003321343
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49
Activity
1d
My App stuck in "Waiting for Review" two week
Hello everyone, My app (ID: 6756186616) was submitted on Mar 15, 2026, and has been stuck in "Waiting for Review" status for over 17 days. I contacted Developer Support (case #20000111565861) and received confirmation that it's proceeding normally, but no update since. On average, Apple reviews 90 percent of apps within 24 hours. However, there might be cases that need more review time, but mine exceeds two week. Any recent experiences with long queues? Thanks!
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1
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56
Activity
1d
Upload new binary for In-App Purchase(s) review?
Hello,I got the following message the second time. I dont know what to do.My app is reviewed and live, but my in app purchases are rejected. I read the message and was wondering about that. This did not happend with my non subscription iaps. I submitted a new "fake" binary with new version and in app purchases again.My app is reviewed and live with new version. My purchases not. I got this message again.We have begun the review of your In-App Purchase(s) but aren't able to continue because your submitted In-App Purchase(s) indicate a change of business model for your app. Therefore, we need to verify the implementation of your submitted In-App Purchase(s) in the app to ensure your app, and its In-App Purchase(s), are in compliance with the App Store Review Guidelines.Specifically, you have submitted auto-renewing subscriptions for review.Please upload a new binary for review and resubmit your In-App Purchase(s) with the binary so that we can continue the review.What to do?
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15
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21k
Activity
2d
App review stuck on the "In review" for 10 days now
Dear App Review Team, Our app – Apple ID 6755677576 has been stuck in the “In review” status for over 10 days (since March 17, 2026). Normally, reviews begin within a few days, but in our case, it seems unusually delayed. Could you please clarify: • Is there a specific reason for this extended hold? • Is any action required from our side? • When can we expect the review to proceed? Thank you very much for your time and assistance.
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112
Activity
2d
App stuck in "Waiting for Review" for over a month with no response
Hello, I would really appreciate if someone from Apple could take a look at this, as I believe there may be an issue with my submission or account. I submitted my app for review for the first time over a month ago, and it has been stuck in “Waiting for Review” ever since, with absolutely no updates. This delay is far beyond the typical review timeframes (which are usually just a few days). I have not received any rejection, feedback, or request for additional information. So far, I have already: Resubmitted the build Sent multiple support requests through App Store Connect Requested an expedited review (which was approved) Despite all of this, there has been no progress at all. I have also sent several support messages and emails, but unfortunately I have not received any response so far. It feels like my case is not being reviewed at all, which makes it very difficult to understand what is going wrong. The app is quite standard and does not contain anything that should require extended review. At this point, I am concerned that there might be: An issue with my developer account A submission stuck in the review queue Or some kind of internal flag that I am not aware of Has anyone experienced a similar situation where an app remained in “Waiting for Review” for over a month? And if anyone from Apple is reading this, could you please check if there is any issue with my submission? Any help or guidance would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
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1
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162
Activity
2d
App stuck in "Waiting for Review" for over two weeks
Hello, I would really appreciate if someone from Apple could take a look at this, as I believe there may be an issue with my submission or account. I submitted my app for review for the first time over a month ago, and it has been stuck in “Waiting for Review” ever since, with absolutely no updates. This delay is far beyond the typical review timeframes (which are usually just a few days). I have not received any rejection, feedback, or request for additional information. So far, I have already: Resubmitted the build Sent multiple support requests through App Store Connect Requested an expedited review (which was approved) Despite all of this, there has been no progress at all. I have also sent several support messages and emails, but unfortunately I have not received any response so far. It feels like my case is not being reviewed at all, which makes it very difficult to understand what is going wrong. The app is quite standard and does not contain anything that should require extended review. At this point, I am concerned that there might be: An issue with my developer account A submission stuck in the review queue Or some kind of internal flag that I am not aware of Has anyone experienced a similar situation where an app remained in “Waiting for Review” for over a month? And if anyone from Apple is reading this, could you please check if there is any issue with my submission? Any help or guidance would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
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1
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160
Activity
2d
App stuck in "Waiting for Review" for over a month with no response
Hello, I would really appreciate if someone from Apple could take a look at this, as I believe there may be an issue with my submission or account. I submitted my app for review for the first time over a month ago, and it has been stuck in “Waiting for Review” ever since, with absolutely no updates. This delay is far beyond the typical review timeframes (which are usually just a few days). I have not received any rejection, feedback, or request for additional information. So far, I have already: Resubmitted the build Sent multiple support requests through App Store Connect Requested an expedited review (which was approved) Despite all of this, there has been no progress at all. I have also sent several support messages and emails, but unfortunately I have not received any response so far. It feels like my case is not being reviewed at all, which makes it very difficult to understand what is going wrong. The app is quite standard and does not contain anything that should require extended review. At this point, I am concerned that there might be: An issue with my developer account A submission stuck in the review queue Or some kind of internal flag that I am not aware of Has anyone experienced a similar situation where an app remained in “Waiting for Review” for over a month? And if anyone from Apple is reading this, could you please check if there is any issue with my submission? Any help or guidance would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
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2
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264
Activity
2d
App stuck in "Waiting for Review" for 8+ days (Expedited Request submitted)
Hi everyone, I am looking for some guidance on a delayed review for a new app launch. Our app, Vibe: Real-Time Social Radar (App ID: 6758596460), has been stuck in the "Waiting for Review" status since March 22nd. Here is the context: It is version 1.0.1. Prior to March 22, we had removed our submission a few times to fix minor metadata issues before the review started. I understand this resets our place in the queue. We have just submitted an Expedited Review request due to an upcoming launch deadline. My question: Does removing a submission multiple times trigger an automated "spam" hold or push the app into a longer Senior Review queue? Is there anything else I can do via App Store Connect to ensure the reviewer has what they need, or do I just need to wait for the Expedited Review team to respond? Any insights from developers who have experienced a similar delay recently would be greatly appreciated!
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111
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2d