Updated Jan 13, 2026

How To Get a Vibe-Coded App To The App Store

Table of Contents

A concise 4-step guide to publish a vibe-coded app: prepare accounts and assets, meet Apple review rules, build with Adalo, submit and update.

Publishing a vibe-coded app to the App Store is simpler than you think. Here’s a quick rundown of what you need to know:

What is vibe coding? It’s a method where you describe app functionality in plain language, and AI generates the code for you. Platforms like Adalo make this process user-friendly.
Why the App Store? With over 650 million weekly visitors, it’s a vital platform for app distribution.
Steps to publish your app:
1. Set up prerequisites: Join Apple’s Developer Program ($99/year), verify your Adalo plan, and prepare assets like icons, screenshots, and metadata.
2. Prepare for Apple’s review: Test your app thoroughly, ensure it meets Apple’s guidelines, and include clear privacy details.
3. Build and submit: Use Adalo to generate your app build, upload it to App Store Connect, and submit it for review.
4. Manage updates: Address any rejections, roll out regular updates, and keep your app compliant with Apple’s policies.

Most apps are reviewed within 48 hours, but careful preparation is key to avoiding delays. Follow these steps, and you’ll be ready to launch your app with confidence.

How to upload your app to the App Store in 2026

App Store

Step 1: Complete Prerequisites and Prepare Your App

Before diving into the publishing process, make sure you've covered three key prerequisites: setting up accounts, obtaining permissions, and preparing assets. These steps will help ensure a smooth workflow.

Enroll in Apple's Developer Program

To publish on the App Store, you need to join the Apple Developer Program, which costs $99 per year. This membership provides access to tools like App Store Connect, where you'll handle submissions, track analytics, and respond to user feedback.

You can choose between two membership types:

Individual Account: Lists your personal name on the App Store and is limited to a single user.
Organization Account: Displays your company name and supports multiple team members with roles like Admin or Manager.

If you're registering as an organization, your business must be a legal entity with a D-U-N-S Number. This process can take up to 14 business days, so check Apple's lookup tool to see if your company already has one before applying.

Requirement	Individual Account	Organization Account
App Store Listing	Displays personal name	Displays legal company name
Team Access	Single user only	Multiple users/roles
D-U-N-S Number	Not required	Required
Verification Time	Usually faster	Longer due to verification

Additionally, make sure you have two-factor authentication (2FA) enabled on your trusted Apple device. Once you've submitted your application, Apple typically processes it within a few days.

Verify Your Adalo Plan Supports Publishing

Adalo

To publish your app, you'll need an Adalo Starter plan or higher. Trial plans don't allow native iOS builds, so upgrading is necessary before you proceed.

To check your plan, open your app in Adalo and click the "Launch" icon. Under the "iOS App" section, you'll see a prompt to upgrade if your current plan doesn't support publishing. Once on the correct plan, enable the build process by toggling the "Publish" setting to "on" in your app settings.

Create Required App Assets and Metadata

Apple has specific requirements for app assets and metadata, so it's important to get these right before submission. Start with a 1024x1024 pixel app icon in .png format. The icon should have no rounded corners. You'll also need 4–10 screenshots per device type (e.g., iPhone, iPad) that showcase your app's features and functionality.

Next, create a unique Bundle Identifier in your Adalo dashboard, formatted as com.appname.ios. Be careful not to include spaces before or after the ID, as this can cause build errors. Keep your app name under 30 characters and avoid special characters like ~ or " to prevent build issues.

You'll also need to generate an App-specific Password from your Apple ID to authorize Adalo to build your app. Lastly, prepare a valid privacy policy URL, which is mandatory for all apps. Starting in April 2026, Apple will require all apps to be built using the iOS 26 SDK or later.

Once you've completed these steps, you're ready to move on to preparing your app for Apple's review in Step 2.

Step 2: Prepare Your App for Apple's Review

Getting your app ready for Apple's review is all about meeting their standards. This involves fine-tuning features and ensuring that your app complies with Apple's guidelines to avoid unnecessary rejections.

Add Features and Test Your App

Start by making sure every core feature works seamlessly. If your app includes user-generated content - like comments or social interactions - you’ll need to include safeguards. This means adding filters for inappropriate material, a reporting system for offensive content, and options to block abusive users.

Thorough testing is key. Use Adalo’s preview tools and test your app on real devices to identify and fix technical issues. Apple won’t accept apps with crashes or major bugs. Focus on main flows like signup, login, and any CRUD (Create, Read, Update, Delete) operations. Go beyond the basics by simulating scenarios like network interruptions or invalid inputs. If your app requires login credentials, be sure to provide a demo account so Apple’s team can access all features during their review.

Testing on real devices also allows you to check for stability, performance on IPv6 networks, and compatibility with older hardware. Keep an eye on database performance to avoid slowdowns, and ensure that your app doesn’t drain the battery or overheat devices. Once these checks are complete, confirm that your app meets all functional and performance benchmarks.

Follow Apple's App Review Guidelines

After addressing functionality, shift your attention to Apple’s review policies. These guidelines stress the importance of accurate metadata and a polished, complete app. Placeholder text, temporary content, or empty links are red flags - your app should feel ready for users. For screenshots, show actual in-app usage instead of splash screens or title images.

If your app requests permissions for features like the camera, photos, or location, provide clear and specific explanations. Adalo’s Help Center reminds developers:

"The prefilled information [for permissions] is just an example and cannot be used to submit your app for review."

Content matters, too. Ensure backend services and APIs are fully operational during the review period. If certain features aren’t ready yet, use TestFlight to gather external feedback instead of submitting an incomplete version to the App Store.

Requirement Category	Key Criteria
Safety	Include moderation tools for user-generated content to protect against harmful material.
Performance	Ensure stability, support IPv6 networks, and optimize for efficient battery usage.
Design	Follow Apple’s Human Interface Guidelines and upload accurate, in-app screenshots.
Legal/Privacy	Clearly explain data usage and provide valid contact details for support.

Additionally, you’ll need to complete "Privacy Nutrition Labels" in App Store Connect. These labels outline your app’s data collection practices, including those of any third-party tools you’ve integrated. With these steps completed, you’ll be ready to move on to building and submitting your app in the next phase.

Step 3: Build and Submit Your App to the App Store

Once your app aligns with Apple's guidelines, you're ready to build and submit it. Start by generating your native iOS build in Adalo and then proceed with the submission process through App Store Connect.

Create a Native iOS Build in Adalo

Head over to the Launch tab in Adalo and open the iOS App section. Before generating your build, you'll need to configure some important details:

Enter your Apple Bundle ID carefully - ensure there are no extra spaces at the beginning or end to avoid build errors.
Input your Apple ID email and create an App-Specific Password for Adalo.
Set your app's Display Name (limited to 30 characters, no special characters like ~ or ").
Upload a Launch Screen graphic and choose a background color.
Provide customized permission explanations for features like camera, photo library, and location access, as Apple requires these to clearly reflect your app's functionality.

Once everything is set, click 'Start New TestFlight Build' to begin the build process. You'll receive an email notification when the build is ready. Use TestFlight to distribute your app for feedback and testing. Since Apple approves around 90% of apps within 48 hours, thorough testing through TestFlight can help avoid delays.

After testing, move on to App Store Connect to submit your app.

Upload Your App Through App Store Connect

App Store Connect

Once your build is finalized, log in to App Store Connect and create a new app record:

Go to My Apps, click the + button, and select New App.
Fill out the required fields: App Name, Platform (iOS), Primary Language, Bundle ID (must match the one from Adalo), and a unique SKU for internal use.
Use Xcode, Transporter, or command-line tools to upload your IPA file.
After processing, assign your build version under the Build section.

Next, complete the metadata requirements: upload screenshots for each device type, add a description, include keywords, and provide URLs for your support page and privacy policy. Decide on your release method:

Manual Release: You control when the app goes live after approval.
Automatic Release: The app is published immediately upon approval.
Phased Release: The app rolls out over seven days, giving you the option to pause if any critical issues arise.

Finally, click Add for Review, then Submit for Review. Your app's status will change to Waiting for Review, followed by In Review. Be prepared with a trusted Apple device (iPhone, Mac, iPad, or Apple Watch) for two-factor authentication, as SMS-based 2FA is no longer supported as a primary method.

Requirement	Specification
App Name Length	Maximum 30 characters
Description	Maximum 4,000 characters
Screenshots	4–5 per device type
Apple Developer Fee	$99/year
TestFlight Internal Testers	Up to 100
TestFlight External Testers	Up to 10,000

Step 4: Manage the Review Process and Update Your App

Once your app is submitted, it enters Apple’s review queue. Approval usually takes about 48 hours, but rejections can happen. If your app is rejected, respond promptly to avoid delays in your launch. After your app goes live, regular updates will be necessary, and Adalo’s workflow makes this process straightforward. It's also essential to address any issues flagged by Apple to keep your app running smoothly.

Fix Common Rejection Issues

Apple often rejects apps for reasons that can be resolved with some adjustments. Here are a few common issues to watch out for:

Technical Problems: Crashes, freezing, or excessive battery drain are frequent culprits.
Privacy Compliance: Apple requires apps to include a clear privacy policy. Using generic permission text is another red flag - permissions for camera, photo library, or location access need specific, customized explanations, not placeholder text.
Metadata Errors: Using trademarked terms, special characters like ~ in the app name, or irrelevant keywords can result in rejection.
Lack of Functionality: Apps that simply replicate a website without offering meaningful features are often rejected for lacking "valuable content".

If your app is rejected, Apple will provide detailed feedback in App Store Connect. Review these notes carefully. Then, in Adalo, go to the Launch tab, expand the iOS App section, and click Update Settings to make the necessary changes. Ensure permission explanations are tailored to your app rather than using default text. Once you’ve addressed the issues, click Start New TestFlight Build and take advantage of TestFlight’s 90-day testing period to confirm the fixes. Consistent testing and quick updates are essential to maintaining app quality after launch.

Update Your App Using Adalo

Once your app passes review, keeping it updated is simple with Adalo. To make changes, go to the Launch tab, expand the iOS App section, and click Update Settings. This allows you to adjust credentials or app metadata as needed. Adalo 2.0 offers manual publishing, meaning you can tweak your app in the builder without affecting the live version until you’re ready to push the changes.

When it’s time to release an update, click Start New TestFlight Build to create a new version. Use TestFlight to test each build thoroughly and catch any bugs that might lead to rejection. In App Store Connect, you can choose from three release options:

Manual Release: Gives you control over the exact launch time.
Automatic Release: Publishes as soon as Apple approves the update.
Phased Release: Rolls out your update over seven days, allowing you to pause if any critical issues arise.

Don’t forget to renew your Apple Developer Program membership, which costs $99 per year. If your membership lapses, your app will be removed from the App Store. Starting in April 2026, all iOS and iPadOS apps must be built using the iOS & iPadOS 26 SDK or later, so plan your updates accordingly. Additionally, if you introduce features that collect new types of user data, update your Privacy Nutrition Label in App Store Connect to remain compliant.

Conclusion

Launching your vibe-coded app with Adalo doesn’t require any coding knowledge. The process boils down to four essential steps: joining Apple’s Developer Program and verifying your Adalo plan, prepping your app with the right assets and thorough testing, building and submitting your app via App Store Connect, and managing updates after your app goes live.

Here’s a quick recap: most apps get reviewed within 48 hours if they meet Apple’s guidelines. Customizing permission requests and using TestFlight’s 90-day testing period can help you catch potential bugs before launch. But remember, publishing isn’t the finish line - it’s just the beginning. To keep your app thriving, you’ll need to roll out regular updates, monitor its performance, and address user feedback promptly.

As Sonia Rebecca Menezes from Adalo puts it:

"Both YOU and the app stores are working towards the same goal: To have great apps available to the public. This is why it's super important to put your heart and soul into this final step."

Sonia Rebecca Menezes, Adalo

Adalo’s manual publishing feature in version 2.0 makes updating your app easier than ever. You can refine changes in the builder without affecting the live version until you’re ready. To minimize risks, consider a phased release, rolling out updates over seven days. This approach gives you time to address any critical issues before they affect your entire user base.

FAQs

What are the advantages of using vibe coding to create apps?

Vibe coding lets you create fully functional apps without writing a single line of code. Thanks to Adalo’s drag-and-drop tools, you can design app screens, set up databases, and define how your app works in just a matter of minutes. It’s a quicker, simpler way to bring your app ideas to life and get them ready for publishing.

This method also cuts costs by eliminating the need for specialized developers or dealing with complicated coding processes. Adalo even makes publishing to the App Store easier by walking you through Apple’s requirements, like setting up bundle IDs and permissions. On top of that, features like manual publishing allow you to update your app seamlessly, ensuring improvements can happen without disrupting your users. Vibe coding is a practical, cost-effective way to launch your app with far less hassle.

How do I make sure my app complies with Apple’s privacy guidelines?

To make sure your vibe-coded app aligns with Apple’s privacy guidelines, start by keeping a detailed record of all the user data your app collects. This includes data that users provide directly, data generated by the app itself, or anything gathered through third-party tools like analytics or advertising SDKs. When filling out the Privacy Nutrition Label in App Store Connect, be specific about the types of data collected - like contact information or location - and clarify whether this data is linked to users or used for tracking purposes. If your app uses third-party SDKs, be upfront about how they handle data and include their privacy policies where necessary.

For sensitive features like the camera, photos, or location, implement permission prompts with clear, customized explanations. Let users know exactly why your app needs access to these features - Apple is likely to reject apps with vague or unclear justifications. Finally, stay on top of your privacy details. Any time you add new features or change how your app handles data, update your privacy information in App Store Connect promptly to ensure you remain compliant with Apple’s rules and legal standards.

What should I do if my app is rejected by the App Store?

If your app gets rejected, don’t stress - this happens more often than you might think. The first step is to carefully go through the feedback Apple provides in the rejection notice. Look for the specific reasons behind the rejection, whether it’s missing permissions, functionality glitches, or design mismatches with their guidelines.

Once you’ve identified the issue, take action to address it. This could mean adding necessary permissions, fixing bugs, or tweaking your app’s design to meet Apple’s standards. After making these updates, resubmit the revised version of your app via App Store Connect for another review.

Make sure to test your app thoroughly before resubmitting. Catching and fixing potential issues beforehand can save you from repeated rejections and speed up the approval process. With the right tweaks, your app can make it onto the App Store!