Submitting your app to both iOS and Android platforms requires understanding the different requirements of each store. This guide compares App Store and Google Play submission processes to help you prepare effectively.
Overview of Submission Processes
| Feature | App Store | Google Play |
|---|---|---|
| Review Time | 1-3 days (typically) | 1-7 days (typically) |
| Review Strictness | Very strict, manual review | Moderate, automated + manual |
| Developer Fee | $99/year | $25 one-time |
| Update Approval | Required for each update | Required for each update |
Required Documentation
App Store Documentation
- Privacy policy URL (mandatory for all apps)
- Support URL (must be specific to the app)
- Marketing URL (optional)
- App Store Connect account
- App Review Information (test account if needed)
- Content rights documentation (if applicable)
- Apple Developer Program membership
Google Play Documentation
- Privacy policy URL (mandatory for all apps)
- Support URL or email
- Content rating questionnaire
- Google Play Console account
- Target audience and content selection
- Developer distribution agreement
- Google Play Developer registration
Support URL Requirements
App Store Support URL
Apple has strict requirements for support URLs:
- Must be a functional website (not social media)
- Must identify the specific app
- Must provide a way for users to contact support
- Cannot redirect to the App Store
- Must be live at time of submission
- Must remain functional after approval
Google Play Support
Google offers more flexibility:
- Can be either a website URL or email address
- If using a URL, must be functional
- Should provide user support for the specific app
- Cannot redirect to Google Play
- Must remain functional after approval
Privacy Policy Differences
App Store Privacy Requirements
- Mandatory App Privacy section in App Store Connect
- Must declare all data types collected
- Must indicate whether data is used for tracking
- Privacy "nutrition labels" displayed on App Store
- Privacy policy must match App Privacy declarations
- IDFA usage must be disclosed
Google Play Privacy Requirements
- Data safety section in Google Play Console
- Must declare collected data types and purposes
- Must disclose data sharing with third parties
- Security practices must be explained
- Must indicate if data can be deleted by user request
Content and Age Rating Systems
App Store Age Ratings
- 4+ (suitable for all)
- 9+ (mild content)
- 12+ (moderate content)
- 17+ (mature content)
Google Play Content Ratings
- Everyone
- Everyone 10+
- Teen
- Mature 17+
- Adults Only 18+
Technical Requirements
App Store Technical Requirements
- Built with latest Xcode version (or close to it)
- Support for latest iOS version and recent previous version
- Support for all current iPhone models
- iPad support (if applicable)
- App binary below 4GB
- IPv6 compatibility
- Proper use of iOS frameworks
Google Play Technical Requirements
- Android API level requirements updated yearly
- APK or Android App Bundle format
- Support for various screen sizes
- Maximum APK size of 100MB (expansion files for larger)
- 64-bit compatibility
- App bundle for new apps
Common Rejection Reasons
App Store Common Rejections
- Broken links or non-functional components
- Missing or incomplete information
- Privacy concerns or inadequate disclosures
- Poor performance or crashes
- Misleading descriptions
- Use of private APIs
- Insufficient app functionality
Google Play Common Rejections
- Policy violations (intellectual property, deceptive behavior)
- Inadequate content rating
- Malware or security concerns
- Missing privacy policy
- Repetitive content or spam
- Violations of developer program policies
Best Practices for Smooth Submission
- Create a comprehensive checklist for each platform
- Use our support URL generator for compliant support pages
- Generate a thorough privacy policy that meets both platforms' requirements
- Test extensively on multiple devices
- Review all guidelines before submission
- Have all assets and documentation ready before starting
- Allow extra time for potential rejection and resubmission
Conclusion
While both app stores have similar goals, their specific requirements differ significantly. Understanding these differences and preparing accordingly will help ensure a smooth submission process. For help with creating compliant support URLs and privacy policies, use our specialized generators designed specifically for mobile app developers.