Dear Auntie TUAW: How do I deal with an app due for rejection?

Dear Auntie TUAW,

I submitted a really simple game to Apple on July 17th, and I'm still waiting for them to review it.

A week after that submission, I submitted another new app (a lite version of another app of mine) that had the phrase "Buy the full version for $0.99" and it was rejected only 7 days later because I listed the price (different world currencies pay different amounts). Fair enough. Except that my app that I submitted on July 17th also has the phrase "$0.99" in it (this was submitted before Apple warned all developers to not list costs inside the app).

I e-mailed Apple saying "I know you'll reject my app because of this reason. What should I do?"

They replied saying "Since your application is under further review, I would recommend letting the special review process finish its path and then if you are rejected for the same reason as [2nd app], you will have to make the changes and then we will expedite your application through the new review process."

That was 7 days ago. I know that my app will be rejected. They also know it will be rejected. And yet, it's still "In Review." I know many other developers complain about the review process, and I've not even had to be waiting for as long as some other people, but this process is just a ridiculous one that we all need to jump through. The App Store has been out for over a year now... why haven't they figured this process out by now? Even if it needs to take this long to go through the review process, it'd be nice if they were at least a little more vocal about what is going on and give me a time frame of when it will be completed.

Love and Kissies,

Your Nephew Ryan



Dearest Ryan,

I'm so sorry to hear about your App Store review delays. It's just like waiting for my bifocals to be ready at the opticians. I can't see what kind of bad news is on the way to mess up my lawn but I know they're out there and that they'll be here soon. You young whippersnappers!

Fortunately, iTunes Connect offers a handy feature that puts you back in control of your situation. (Just as my Remington 870 tactical will help with mine.)

Update your app in Xcode, create a new distribution version, and then reject the binary that's currently in review. You'll then be able to upload a new version that doesn't mention any specific prices. (And hopefully doesn't try to upsell you to another product because in-app advertisements for free-to-pay upgrades make Auntie T have to stock up on the Preparation H, if you follow my meaning. It also gives you halitosis, stunts your growth, and decreases your happiness level by 1d5.)

Admittedly, rejecting your binary puts you at the back of the review line. At the same time, you know that if you've taken care of any outstanding auto-rejection issues, you'll likely have a 7-14 day approval from the time you reject and then replace the app. Second guessing the review squad and fixing problems proactively sidesteps any known issues and puts you back into control.

And don't forget to send the poor review team some virtual cookies. They love that!

Love,

Auntie TUAW