# Apple Review: Why it is Required for Free iOS Apps
As an app developer, you know that submitting your app to the Apple App Store requires a review process. This process is necessary to ensure that the app meets Apple’s guidelines and standards. However, you may wonder why this review is required, especially for free apps. In this blog, we will discuss the importance of Apple review for free iOS apps.
## What is Apple Review?
Apple review is the process by which Apple evaluates and approves apps that are submitted to the App Store. This process ensures that the app meets Apple’s guidelines for content, functionality, and design. The review process is conducted by a team of experts who examine the app carefully to ensure that it is safe, reliable, and user-friendly.
## Why is Apple Review Required for Free Apps?
You may think that since your app is free, there would be no need for Apple review. However, this is not the case. Apple review is required for all apps, whether they are paid or free. Here are some reasons why Apple review is necessary for free apps:
– Quality Control: Apple review ensures that the app meets high-quality standards. This ensures that users have a positive experience with the app and are more likely to use it again.
– Safety: Apple review checks for any potential security issues that could harm users. This ensures that the app is safe to use and protects users’ personal information.
– App Store Guidelines: Apple review ensures that the app meets Apple’s guidelines for content, functionality, and design. This ensures that the app is appropriate for all users and does not contain any offensive or inappropriate content.
– User Experience: Apple review checks to ensure that the app is user-friendly and easy to navigate. This ensures that users can easily use the app and get the most out of it.
## What Happens During Apple Review?
During Apple review, the app is examined by a team of experts who evaluate the app based on several factors, including:
– App functionality: The app must function as intended and not crash or freeze.
– User interface: The app’s design must be user-friendly and easy to navigate.
– Content: The app must not contain any offensive or inappropriate content.
– Security: The app must not pose any security risks to users.
– Performance: The app must perform well and not lag or slow down.
## How Long Does Apple Review Take?
The length of the Apple review process can vary depending on several factors, including:
– The complexity of the app: More complex apps may take longer to review.
– The number of apps in the review queue: If there are many apps waiting to be reviewed, the process may take longer.
– The time of year: During busy times, such as the holiday season, the review process may take longer.
Generally, the Apple review process takes anywhere from a few days to a few weeks.
## FAQs
### Do I have to pay for Apple review?
No, Apple review is included in the cost of becoming an Apple developer.
### Can I release my app without Apple review?
No, all apps must go through the Apple review process before they can be released on the App Store.
### What happens if my app is rejected during Apple review?
If your app is rejected, you will receive an explanation of why it was rejected and what changes you need to make. You can then resubmit the app for review.
### How can I ensure that my app will pass Apple review?
To ensure that your app will pass Apple review, make sure that it meets all of Apple’s guidelines for content, functionality, and design. You can also use Apple’s App Store Review Guidelines as a reference.
### Can I appeal an Apple review decision?
Yes, you can appeal a review decision if you believe it was unfair or incorrect. You can do this by contacting Apple’s App Review Board.
## Conclusion
In conclusion, Apple review is necessary for all apps, whether they are paid or free. This process ensures that the app is safe, reliable, and user-friendly, and meets Apple’s guidelines for content, functionality, and design. By understanding the importance of Apple review, you can ensure that your app is of high quality and meets the standards set by Apple.