Apple App Store Guide

Shipping to the App Store feels intimidating the first time, but the process is mostly paperwork plus patience. Here's the path from Xcode to “Ready for Sale,” with the gotchas PH makers hit most often.

Join the developer program

• check_circleEnroll in the Apple Developer Program — it costs USD 99 per year, so budget roughly PHP 5,500–6,000 depending on the exchange rate.
• check_circleUse a card that works for international charges; some local debit cards decline Apple's billing. A credit card or enabled e-wallet card saves a support ticket.
• check_circleEnrolling as an individual is fastest. Companies need a D-U-N-S number, which can take a couple of weeks — start early.

Prepare your listing

• arrow_rightWrite your name, subtitle, and description before submission day — rushed metadata reads like rushed metadata.
• arrow_rightExport screenshots for the required device sizes (6.9" and 6.5" iPhones at minimum). Put your best screen first.
• arrow_rightFill in the privacy nutrition labels honestly — reviewers check them against your app's actual behavior.

Beta test with TestFlight

TestFlight lets up to 10,000 external testers try builds before launch. Internal testing needs no review; external groups go through a light beta review. Recruit testers from our community — the testers board here exists exactly for this.

Common review rejections

• arrow_rightCrashes on launch — test on a real device, not just the simulator.
• arrow_rightIncomplete review information — give reviewers a working demo account and clear notes.
• arrow_rightPlaceholder content — lorem ipsum or empty screens are an instant rejection.

Pricing for the PH storefront

Apple sets PHP price tiers per storefront, so check what your USD tier converts to locally — a price that feels cheap in dollars can feel steep in pesos. Many PH makers do best with free-plus-subscription, and you can set lower PHP prices for the local storefront while keeping global tiers intact.