For developers launching mobile applications, the submission and approval process can be vastly different depending on whether they are submitting to the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store. While both platforms serve as major distribution channels, each has its own unique set of requirements, policies, and review processes. Understanding these differences is crucial to ensuring a smooth approval process and avoiding common pitfalls that can lead to rejection or delays.

This guide outlines the key differences between the Google Play Store and Apple App Store in terms of submission, approval timelines, common rejection reasons, and in-app purchase policies, as well as future predictions for app store policies.

Step-by-Step App Submission Process

While both stores require developers to create an account, prepare their app, and submit it for review, the specifics of each step vary significantly.

Google Play Store Submission Process

1. Register for a Google Play Developer Account – Requires a one-time $25 registration fee.
2. Prepare the App – Developers need to ensure the app meets Google’s content policies and guidelines.
3. Generate an App Bundle/APK – Apps are uploaded in Android App Bundle (AAB) format.
4. Fill in Store Listing Details – This includes app title, description, screenshots, category, contact details, and privacy policy.
5. Set Pricing & Distribution – Developers select the app’s price (free or paid) and the target audience.
6. Submit for Review – Apps go through Google’s automated and manual review processes.
7. Approval & Publishing – Once approved, the app is published and available for download.

Apple App Store Submission Process

1. Enroll in the Apple Developer Program – Requires an annual $99 fee.
2. Prepare the App Using Xcode – Apps must be developed using Xcode and follow Apple’s Human Interface Guidelines.
3. Set Up App Store Connect – Developers upload their app’s information, including title, description, screenshots, and compliance documents.
4. Configure Pricing & Availability – Set pricing and regional availability.
5. Test the App with TestFlight – Apple strongly encourages testing the app using TestFlight before submission.
6. Submit for Review – Apple conducts a thorough review process involving both automated checks and human reviewers.
7. Approval & Publishing – Once approved, the app is released to the App Store.

Approval Timelines and Review Criteria

One of the most significant differences between the two stores is the time it takes for an app to get approved.

• Google Play Store: App reviews are generally faster, often taking a few hours to a couple of days. Google uses a mix of automated checks and human reviewers but has a more lenient approval process.
• Apple App Store: Apple’s review process is notoriously strict and can take several days to a week. Apple manually reviews each submission for adherence to its design and content policies.

Apple’s stricter approval process ensures higher app quality, whereas Google’s more relaxed policies allow for quicker time-to-market but can sometimes lead to lower-quality apps being published.

Common Rejection Reasons and How to Avoid Them

Understanding the reasons for rejection can help developers preemptively address potential issues.

Google Play Store Common Rejections:

• Violations of Google’s Content Policy – Apps that contain misleading claims, inappropriate content, or harmful behaviors.
• Poor User Experience – Apps with excessive ads, difficult navigation, or performance issues.
• Privacy Violations – Apps that do not disclose data collection and handling practices.
• Security Issues – Apps that request unnecessary permissions or contain malware.

How to Avoid Rejections:

• Follow Google’s Developer Program Policies.
• Ensure the app is functional, user-friendly, and free of security risks.
• Clearly disclose data usage and obtain user consent where needed.

Apple App Store Common Rejections:

• User Interface Violations – Apps that do not adhere to Apple’s Human Interface Guidelines.
• Performance Issues – Crashes, bugs, or slow load times.
• Inadequate Privacy Policies – Lack of compliance with Apple’s privacy standards.
• Inappropriate Monetization Practices – Apps that attempt to bypass Apple’s in-app purchase system.

How to Avoid Rejections:

• Adhere to Apple’s App Store Guidelines.
• Use TestFlight to thoroughly test the app before submission.
• Ensure all monetization models comply with Apple’s requirements.

In-App Purchase Policies and Revenue-Sharing Differences

The two platforms handle in-app purchases and revenue sharing differently:

• Google Play Store: Charges a 15% to 30% commission on in-app purchases, depending on the developer’s revenue.
• Apple App Store: Takes a 30% cut on in-app purchases, but offers a reduced 15% rate for small businesses earning under $1 million per year.

Apple is stricter in enforcing its in-app purchase policies, requiring digital goods and services to go through Apple’s payment system, while Google offers slightly more flexibility, especially with external payment methods.

Future Predictions for App Store Policies

The app store landscape is evolving, with regulatory changes potentially reshaping submission policies.

1. Impact of the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) – The EU is pushing for more open app ecosystems, which may force Apple and Google to allow alternative payment methods and third-party app stores.
2. Changes in App Store Fees – Both platforms may adjust their revenue-sharing models to accommodate smaller developers and regulatory pressure.
3. Greater Transparency in Approval Processes – With growing scrutiny, Apple and Google may introduce clearer guidelines and communication regarding app rejections and approvals.

Navigating the App Store Submission Process

While both the Google Play Store and Apple App Store serve as critical platforms for mobile app distribution, their submission and approval processes differ significantly. Google Play offers faster, more lenient approvals, whereas Apple enforces stricter guidelines to maintain app quality. Understanding these differences, adhering to platform-specific policies, and testing thoroughly before submission can help developers avoid delays and rejections.

Whether you’re launching a new app or refining an existing one, following best practices for each platform ensures a smoother approval process and a successful app launch. Need expert guidance on navigating the complexities of app store submission? Our team specializes in app development and compliance strategies to get your app approved and performing optimally in both stores.