Optimizing Metadata for App Review
Best practices for preparing app metadata and screenshots to improve your chances of passing App Store review on the first attempt.
Why Metadata Optimization Matters
App Store review rejections can delay your release by days or weeks. According to our analysis, 70% of initial rejections are due to incomplete or inaccurate metadata. With proper optimization, you can dramatically increase your chances of first-time approval.
SubmitOps helps you maintain metadata excellence across all your apps and releases. Here's our comprehensive guide to getting it right the first time.
Essential Metadata Components
Your app metadata consists of several critical components that Apple's review team evaluates:
App Name and Subtitle
Must accurately reflect your app's functionality and avoid trademark issues.
Description
Clear, concise explanation of features and benefits without misleading claims.
Keywords
Relevant terms that help users discover your app without keyword stuffing.
What's New
Accurate release notes highlighting new features and improvements.
Category and Subcategory
Must match your app's primary functionality and user purpose.
Age Rating
Appropriate rating based on content analysis and target audience.
App Name Best Practices
Your app name is the first impression users and reviewers have:
App Name Guidelines
- Keep it Under 30 Characters: Longer names get truncated and lose impact.
- Be Descriptive: Clearly indicate what your app does without being misleading.
- Avoid Generic Terms: Stand out with unique, memorable naming.
- Check Trademarks: Ensure you're not infringing on existing trademarks.
- Consider Brand Recognition: Balance uniqueness with discoverability.
Crafting Compelling Descriptions
Your app description is crucial for both reviewers and users:
Step 1: Opening Hook
- • Start with your app's core value proposition
- • Address the primary problem you solve
- • Keep the first paragraph under 3 lines
Step 2: Feature Highlights
- • List key features with clear benefits
- • Use bullet points for readability
- • Focus on unique differentiators
Step 3: Use Case Examples
- • Provide specific scenarios where your app excels
- • Include target audience use cases
- • Demonstrate real-world value
Screenshot Optimization
Screenshots are often the first visual reviewers and users see:
Required Devices
iPhone 6.7", iPhone 6.5", iPad 12.9", iPad Pro are mandatory for most apps.
Consistent Branding
Maintain visual consistency across all screenshot sizes and devices.
Clear Value Proposition
Each screenshot should highlight a specific feature or benefit.
No Fake Device Frames
Use actual device screenshots without additional device frames.
Text Overlays
Minimal, clear text that explains what's shown in the screenshot.
Keywords Strategy
Effective keyword selection improves discoverability without stuffing:
Keyword Best Practices
- 100 Character Limit: Use comma-separated keywords that fit within the limit.
- No Brand Names: Don't include other app names or brands.
- Focus on Relevance: Choose terms users actually search for.
- Avoid Repetition: Don't repeat words from your app name.
- Long-tail Keywords: Include specific phrases that describe your app's niche.
- Local Considerations: Include location-specific terms if relevant.
Common Review Triggers to Avoid
These metadata issues frequently cause review rejections:
Misleading Claims
Avoid promising features or benefits your app doesn't deliver.
Inappropriate Content
Ensure all metadata complies with age ratings and content guidelines.
Trademark Infringement
Don't use other company names, logos, or trademarked terms.
Incomplete Information
Fill out all required fields completely and accurately.
Placeholder Content
Never submit with placeholder text, lorem ipsum, or sample data.
SubmitOps Metadata Management
Our platform helps you maintain metadata excellence:
Validation Checks
Automated validation catches common issues before submission.
Template Management
Create and reuse metadata templates for consistency across releases.
Localization Support
Manage metadata translations for all supported regions efficiently.
Version History
Track metadata changes across versions for compliance auditing.
Preview Mode
See how your metadata will appear in the App Store before submission.
Pre-Submission Checklist
Use this comprehensive checklist before each submission:
Final Review Checklist
- ✓ App Information: All fields completed and accurate
- ✓ Description Quality: No typos, clear and compelling copy
- ✓ Screenshots: All required sizes uploaded and optimized
- ✓ Keywords: Relevant, non-repetitive, under character limit
- ✓ Age Rating: Appropriate rating with accurate content disclosure
- ✓ Category Selection: Correct primary and secondary categories
- ✓ Review Guidelines: Compliance with all App Store guidelines
- ✓ Localization: All supported markets have proper translations
- ✓ Testing: App tested thoroughly on all supported devices
Streamline Your Metadata Management
Let SubmitOps help you maintain perfect metadata and improve your approval rates.