Last updated on Oct 7, 2024

How do you prepare your iOS app for submission and distribution?

If you have developed an iOS app with Swift and want to share it with the world, you need to prepare it for submission and distribution through the App Store. This process involves several steps that ensure your app meets the quality and security standards of Apple and provides a great user experience. In this article, we will guide you through the main steps of preparing your iOS app for submission and distribution.

1 Configure your app

The first step is to configure your app's settings and metadata in Xcode and in the App Store Connect portal. You need to provide information such as your app's name, description, keywords, categories, icons, screenshots, and ratings. You also need to set up your app's bundle identifier, version number, build number, and signing certificates. These are essential for identifying and verifying your app during the submission and distribution process.

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Jaydip Savaliya 

App Developer | iOS | iPadOS | Swift | Flutter
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I am preparing an iOS app for submission and distribution involves several steps: App Store Connect Setup: Create an app record, fill in metadata, app icon, screenshots, and descriptions. Code Signing: Ensure the app uses the correct provisioning profile and distribution certificate for submission. App Versioning: Set the correct version and build numbers in Xcode. App Validation: Run Xcode's "Archive" feature, validate, and fix any issues. App Submission: Upload the app to App Store Connect using Xcode's "Distribute App." App Review: After submission, wait for Apple's review and approval. These steps ensure the app is properly set up and ready for public distribution.

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Dmitrii Konstantinov

Senior Product Manager | Product Owner | AI, ML, Mobile | B2B, B2C, B2B2C
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I'd like to emphasize the importance of customizing metadata for each target region when preparing to launch your application. While it may not be immediately apparent, dedicating time to localization and creating adaptive screenshots specific to each region can be a significant endeavor. Additionally, remember that if you plan to make the application available on iPad, you'll need to provide screenshots tailored for it, including localized versions for each target region.

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2 Test your app

The second step is to test your app thoroughly on different devices and simulators to ensure it works as expected and does not have any bugs or errors. You can use various tools and frameworks such as XCTest, XCUITest, and TestFlight to perform unit testing, UI testing, and beta testing of your app. You should also follow the iOS Human Interface Guidelines and the App Store Review Guidelines to check if your app complies with the design and functionality requirements of Apple.

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Dmitrii Konstantinov

Senior Product Manager | Product Owner | AI, ML, Mobile | B2B, B2C, B2B2C
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I'd like to emphasize the importance of ensuring seamless registration for your application, especially if it involves SMS or email verification codes. It's crucial to create a test user with a static code specifically for Apple testing purposes. Keep in mind that an Apple employee won't be able to use a dynamic code for testing.

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3 Archive and upload your app

The third step is to archive and upload your app to the App Store Connect portal. Archiving your app creates a compressed file that contains your app's executable code and resources. You can archive your app using the Product menu in Xcode or the xcodebuild command-line tool. Uploading your app sends the archived file to the App Store Connect portal, where you can manage and submit your app for review. You can upload your app using the Distribute App option in Xcode or the altool command-line tool.

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4 Submit your app for review

The fourth step is to submit your app for review by Apple. You need to select the build you want to submit, fill out the app information and review details, and agree to the terms and conditions. You can also opt-in for automatic updates, which allow you to update your app without submitting a new version for review. Apple will review your app within a few days and notify you of the status. You can track the progress of your app review in the App Store Connect portal or in the App Store Connect app.

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5 Distribute your app

The final step is to distribute your app to the App Store and to your users. You can choose to release your app manually or automatically after it is approved by Apple. You can also use phased release, which allows you to gradually roll out your app to a percentage of your users over a period of time. You can manage and monitor your app's distribution in the App Store Connect portal or in the App Store Connect app. You can also use analytics, feedback, and ratings to measure and improve your app's performance and user satisfaction.

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6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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How do you prepare your iOS app for submission and distribution?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Configure your app

2 Test your app

3 Archive and upload your app

4 Submit your app for review

5 Distribute your app

6 Here’s what else to consider

Mobile Applications

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How do you prepare your iOS app for submission and distribution?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Configure your app

2 Test your app

3 Archive and upload your app

4 Submit your app for review

5 Distribute your app

6 Here’s what else to consider

Mobile Applications

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

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