Publishing your app to the Apple App Store or Google Play Store can connect your MVP app development project with millions of users. Here's what you need to know:
- Apple App Store: Requires a $99/year developer account. Apps must comply with Apple's Human Interface Guidelines, include a Privacy Nutrition Label, and meet strict review standards. Submissions are reviewed by humans, with approval typically taking 24–48 hours.
- Google Play Store: Requires a one-time $25 registration fee. Apps must be submitted in the Android App Bundle (AAB) format. Google uses a mix of automated and human reviews, which can take 2–7 days.
Using mobile app platforms like Adalo simplifies the process by eliminating the need for coding, allowing you to build and publish apps quickly. Adalo also helps you generate the required files and assets, like app icons, screenshots, and descriptions, for both platforms. Testing is critical - use TestFlight for iOS and Google Play's testing tracks for Android to ensure your app runs smoothly.
Key steps include:
- Prepare assets: App icons, screenshots, descriptions, and a Privacy Policy URL.
- Test thoroughly: Ensure stability, functionality, and compliance with platform guidelines.
- Submit your app: Use Adalo’s export tools to generate platform-specific files, then upload them to App Store Connect or Google Play Console.
Adalo’s no-code platform makes it easy to create apps without technical expertise, speeding up the path to publishing. By following these steps, you can launch your app effectively and start reaching your audience.
App Store Submission Guide (2025): Publish Your iOS App to the Store (Xcode & App Store Connect)
Preparing Your Adalo App for Submission
Before you submit your app, it’s essential to make sure it’s fully functional and meets the standards of the platform you're targeting. This involves building a stable app, testing it thoroughly, and collecting all the necessary assets for your store listing. Start by creating a solid app using Adalo’s intuitive tools, then move on to testing and preparing your assets.
Building and Testing Your Adalo App
Adalo’s drag-and-drop interface makes it easy to build your app, whether you’re starting from scratch or using one of its 40 customizable templates. Once your app is built, focus on ensuring it runs smoothly - no crashes, freezes, or excessive battery drain. For Apple’s App Store, your app must handle data efficiently and adhere to their Human Interface Guidelines.
Test key features like user authentication, database loading, and push notifications to confirm they work as intended. For iOS, use TestFlight to distribute your app to up to 100 internal testers or as many as 10,000 external testers via email links. Android apps, on the other hand, should be tested using Google Play’s Internal, Closed, or Open testing tracks, as .AAB build files can’t be installed directly onto devices.
In Adalo’s settings, customize permission request texts for features like Camera, Photos, and Location. Apple requires clear explanations for how your app uses these features. Also, make sure the "Publish" toggle is enabled in Adalo before generating builds. A common error to avoid is leaving extra spaces before or after the Bundle ID when setting up iOS builds, as this can cause build failures.
Collecting Required Assets
Once your app is stable and tested, focus on gathering the graphics and text required for your store listing. For the Apple App Store, you’ll need:
- A 1024 x 1024px app icon
- Up to 10 screenshots per device type
- An app name and subtitle (each up to 30 characters)
- A description of up to 4,000 characters
- Keywords totaling 100 characters
For the Google Play Store, the requirements include:
- A 512 x 512px app icon
- At least 3 phone screenshots
- Screenshots for each tablet size (7-inch and 10-inch)
- A feature graphic
- A short description (80 characters)
- A full description (4,000 characters)
To capture screenshots of your app in action, use Adalo’s device previewer along with tools like Snipping Tool (Windows) or Screen Capture (Mac). Make sure your screenshots highlight the app’s functionality rather than just showing login or welcome screens. Tools like Canva or Adobe Express can help you design professional-looking, compliant assets.
Both stores also require a publicly accessible Privacy Policy URL. This is especially important if your app requests permissions or handles sensitive user data.
Meeting App Store Requirements
Apple App Store vs Google Play Store Requirements Comparison
Once your app assets are ready, the next step is to ensure they meet the specific requirements of each platform. Apple and Google have distinct submission formats, review processes, and account fees. Understanding these details in advance can help you avoid delays or rejections during the app review process.
Apple App Store Requirements
To publish on the Apple App Store, you’ll need a $99/year Developer Account. The process starts by creating a unique Bundle ID in App Store Connect, which serves as your app's permanent identifier.
Apple mandates two-factor authentication (2FA) through a Mac, iPhone, iPad, or Apple Watch, as SMS-based 2FA is being phased out. Additionally, you’ll need to generate an App-Specific Password in your Apple ID to allow Adalo to submit your app builds.
"In order to publish an iOS build in Adalo, you must be able to approve sign-ins from Mac, iPhone, iPad, or Apple Watch with 2FA enabled." - Adalo Help Documentation
If your app has login features, you must provide active demo account credentials for Apple’s review team to test all functionalities. For apps that integrate with hardware, Apple requires a video demonstration showing how the app interacts with the hardware.
Apple’s review process is conducted by a human reviewer for every app and update. Reviews usually take 24 to 48 hours but can extend to 7 days in some cases. Once approved, apps may take up to 24 hours to appear live on the store. Starting in April 2026, all iOS and iPadOS apps must be built using the iOS & iPadOS 26 SDK or later.
Your app must align with Apple’s Human Interface Guidelines and include a complete Privacy Nutrition Label in App Store Connect. This label should detail all data collection practices, including those of third-party analytics or advertising networks. A publicly accessible Privacy Policy URL is required if your app handles sensitive data or requests permissions. Apps aimed at children face stricter rules: they cannot include external links or allow purchases without a parental gate, and they must not share personally identifiable information with third parties.
After meeting Apple’s requirements, it’s time to look at Google Play’s submission process.
Google Play Store Requirements
To publish on Google Play, you’ll need a one-time $25 Developer Console account. Starting in August 2021, all new apps must be submitted in the Android App Bundle (AAB) format, which Adalo automatically generates for you.
"Starting August 2021, new apps are required to publish with the Android App Bundle (AAB) on Google Play." - Adalo Resources
Each app requires a unique Package Name (e.g., com.sample.app), which acts as its permanent application ID.
Google Play’s review process begins with automated machine learning scans and may escalate to human review if needed. This hybrid approach allows Google to handle the high volume of submissions - more than three times as many as Apple.
Both platforms require you to complete content rating questionnaires to determine the appropriate age classification for your app. It’s important to answer these accurately, as incorrect ratings could result in regulatory issues or app removal. You’ll also need a publicly accessible Privacy Policy URL, especially if your app requests device permissions or processes sensitive user data.
| Requirement | Apple App Store | Google Play Store |
|---|---|---|
| Account Cost | $99/year | $25 one-time |
| Primary File Format | IPA (via Xcode/Adalo) | AAB (Android App Bundle) |
| App Name Limit | 30 characters | 30 characters |
| Icon Size | 1024 x 1024px | 512 x 512px |
| Review Method | Human-led | Machine Learning + Human |
Localizing Your Adalo App for the US Market
Before submitting your app, tailoring it for the US market is an essential step. This involves aligning your app with US-specific language and technical preferences, such as date formats and measurement systems.
Building apps in different languages can significantly impact its performance. Studies have shown a 128% increase in downloads and 26% higher revenue per country when apps are localized. Even among English-speaking users, adapting app store listings to match their native formats can boost downloads by 38%. This is a key strategy to increase your app store rankings and visibility. Below, we’ll outline the key US formatting and language standards your app should meet.
US Formatting and Language Standards
US users expect specific formatting conventions that differ from international norms. For instance:
- Dates: Use the MM/DD/YYYY format (e.g., 01/13/2026) and display time with a 12-hour clock using AM/PM indicators (e.g., 2:00 PM) instead of the 24-hour clock.
- Numbers and Currency: Write numbers with a period (.) as the decimal separator and a comma (,) as the thousands separator (e.g., 1,234.56). Currency is shown with the dollar sign ($) as a prefix (e.g., $100.00).
- Measurements: Use the Imperial system for distances, weights, and temperatures (e.g., miles, feet, lbs, and °F).
- Language: Follow American English spelling, such as "color" instead of "colour", "localize" instead of "localise", and "theater" instead of "theatre".
In Adalo, you can easily adjust how dates and numbers appear. Simply click the pencil icon within the Magic Text chip for any Number or Date property to customize formatting. When saving numbers in the database, enter them as whole numbers without symbols, using a period for decimals to ensure compatibility with US standards. For formal contexts, spell out full dates, like "January 1, 2026", for maximum clarity.
"The United States is one of the few countries that use 'mm-dd-yyyy' as their date format–which is very very unique!" - MIT International Students Office
Default vs. en-US Format Comparison
Here’s a quick breakdown of how US (en-US) standards differ from international defaults:
| Format Type | International/Default Format | US (en-US) Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Date (Numeric) | DD/MM/YYYY or YYYY-MM-DD | MM/DD/YYYY |
| Date (Formal) | 1 January 2026 | January 1, 2026 |
| Time | 24-hour clock (14:00) | 12-hour clock (2:00 PM) |
| Decimal Separator | Comma (1,23) | Period (1.23) |
| Thousands Separator | Period or Space (1.000) | Comma (1,000) |
| Currency | €100,00 or 100,00€ | $100.00 |
| Temperature | Celsius (°C) | Fahrenheit (°F) |
| Measurement | Metric (km, meters, kg) | Imperial (miles, feet, lbs) |
| Spelling Example | Localisation, Colour, Theatre | Localization, Color, Theater |
To ensure your app adheres to US standards, set the locale to "en_US" in the app settings. On Google Play, English (United States, en-US) is typically the default for new apps, making it an excellent choice for targeting US users.
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Step-by-Step Submission Process Using Adalo
Exporting Your App from Adalo
Once you're done testing your app in Adalo, exporting it is quick and easy. Head over to the Launch tab in your Adalo dashboard, then choose your platform - iOS App for the Apple App Store or Android App for the Google Play Store.
For iOS, you'll need to input your Bundle ID (no spaces), your Apple ID email, and an App-specific Password. Next, set your app's Display Name (up to 30 characters), upload a Launch Screen graphic, and provide explanations for any permissions your app requests (Apple requires specific justifications for each one).
For Android, you'll need to upload your google-services.json file and your Service Account Key from your Firebase project. Ensure your Package Name matches your Firebase setup. Once everything is configured, start your build: tap Start New Testflight Build for iOS or begin the Android build process. Adalo will email you when your build is ready - usually within 5 minutes. iOS apps are exported as .IPA files, ready for App Store Connect, while Android apps come as Android App Bundles (.AAB files), ready for the Google Play Console. Starting April 2026, all iOS apps must comply with the iOS 26 SDK requirement using Xcode 16 or later - Adalo handles this automatically during the export process.
Once your app is exported, you can move on to submitting it to the appropriate app store. After submission, you should begin marketing your app to ensure a successful launch.
Submitting to App Store Connect and Google Play Console
With your app exported in the correct format, you’re ready to complete the submission process.
For iOS, Adalo sends your build to TestFlight for testing. In App Store Connect, create a new app record and enter all required metadata: title, subtitle, description, keywords, and support URL. Make sure your app icon meets the 1024px specification, and upload 3–5 screenshots using Adalo's device previewer. Complete the age rating questionnaire - this must be updated by January 31, 2026, to avoid submission delays. Set your app's pricing in US dollars and choose a release strategy: Manual (you decide when the app goes live), Automatic (it goes live immediately upon approval), or Phased rollout (a gradual 7-day release). Apple typically reviews apps within about 48 hours, though first-time submissions may take longer if there are metadata issues.
For Android, log into the Google Play Console and create a new app entry with English (United States) set as the default language. Under your chosen track - whether Production or Internal Testing - upload the .AAB file you exported from Adalo. Opt into Google Play App Signing when prompted. Fill out your store listing with details including a title (up to 50 characters), a short description (around 80 characters), a full description, a 512x512px high-resolution icon, a feature graphic, and at least 3 phone screenshots. Set your pricing in US dollars, complete the content rating questionnaire, and select your distribution regions (including the United States). Google Play reviews typically take 2–7 days. Make sure your Package Name matches your Firebase configuration to avoid issues with updates.
| Platform | Export Format | Submission Portal | Typical Review Time | Key Pre-Submission Checks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple App Store | .IPA | App Store Connect | ~48 hours | iOS 26 SDK compliance; updated age rating; 1024px app icon; custom permission explanations |
| Google Play Store | .AAB | Google Play Console | 2–7 days | Store listing details including content rating, 512px icon, feature graphic, and US pricing |
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Before submitting your app, it’s crucial to double-check everything to avoid common roadblocks that could delay your launch.
Mistakes to Avoid
One of the biggest reasons apps get rejected is technical instability - things like crashes, freezing, or broken links can halt your submission immediately. To minimize the risk, test every screen, button, and form using tools like Staging Preview and TestFlight for iOS. Early testing can help catch bugs and uncover issues you might have overlooked.
Another frequent issue is metadata errors. Incomplete descriptions, placeholder text, or broken support URLs can slow down the review process. Make sure every field in App Store Connect and Google Play Console is filled out properly, leaving no placeholder text like "Coming Soon."
Apple also pays close attention to permission explanations. If your app asks for access to the camera, photos, or location, you must provide a custom, clear explanation for why. Replace generic placeholder text with something specific. For instance, instead of saying, "This app needs camera access", use something like, "This app requires camera access to let you upload profile photos and scan QR codes".
Formatting errors in Bundle ID and Package Name can also cause problems. A single space before or after your Bundle ID can lead to build failures. Additionally, if you change your Package Name after creating a Google Play listing, Google will treat it as a new app. Set these correctly from the beginning and avoid special characters like "~" or quotation marks in your app name when using the Adalo builder, as these can cause build errors that are easy to miss.
By addressing these common mistakes, you’ll create a strong foundation for a smoother publishing process with Adalo.
Adalo Publishing Tips
Adalo offers several tools to simplify your app launch. Start by using one of Adalo’s 40+ feature templates, which include pre-configured screens and databases. These templates are designed to meet basic functional standards, reducing the likelihood of structural errors that could lead to rejection.
Leverage Internal Testing tracks in the Google Play Console and consider a phased rollout for your app. You can invite up to 100 testers to try your app before it goes public. Don’t forget to add your own email to the testing list so you can personally verify the build on your device.
"The bottom line is that your app will be reviewed by different people at different times, each with a slightly different perspective and opinion. ... If you go into the process expecting at least one rejection for something you missed, you may be pleasantly surprised." - Wendi Hansen, Inventive.io
Keep in mind that roughly 30% of successful apps release monthly updates. Plan to allocate 15–20% of your initial development budget for ongoing updates and maintenance. For updates, use a Phased Release option, which gradually rolls out changes over seven days. This allows you to monitor performance and address any critical issues before they impact all users. It’s a smart way to manage risk and ensure a better experience for your audience.
Conclusion
Launching an app might seem daunting at first, but breaking it down into clear steps - from preparing your assets to meeting platform guidelines - makes the process much more manageable. Setting up developer accounts is straightforward: Apple charges $99 annually, while Google Play requires a one-time fee of $25. Once that's handled, thorough testing and proper preparation ensure your app is ready for submission.
Adalo's no-code platform eliminates the usual technical hurdles tied to app publishing. With its visual builder, you can handle everything from generating Bundle IDs to creating build files for submission, all without writing a single line of code. This approach not only simplifies the process but also gets your app to market faster.
"Adalo is an intuitive and powerful app builder that requires absolutely zero coding or technical experience to create and publish an app on the App Store." - The Adalo Team
With over 650 million weekly visitors to the Apple App Store, the opportunity to connect with a massive audience is within your reach. After launch, it’s wise to allocate 15–20% of your initial development budget for updates and maintenance. This ensures your app stays competitive and adapts to user feedback. Thanks to Adalo’s streamlined tools and practical guidance, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the submission process and bring your app to life.
FAQs
What are the main differences between submitting an app to the Apple App Store and Google Play Store?
The submission processes for the Apple App Store and Google Play Store differ significantly in cost, speed, and requirements.
Apple requires developers to enroll in the Apple Developer Program, which comes with an annual fee of $99. The approval process is thorough, with apps needing to meet strict guidelines for design, content, and legal compliance. Each app undergoes a manual review, which can take anywhere from 1–2 business days for simpler apps to up to two weeks for more complex ones. Apple also enforces specific rules, such as a 30-character limit for app names and adherence to its Human Interface Guidelines.
Google Play, on the other hand, offers a more budget-friendly and flexible approach. Developers pay a one-time $25 registration fee to create an account. The review process is primarily automated, allowing apps to be approved within just a few hours. Google’s focus is on app stability and responsiveness, without imposing rigid requirements for user interface or metadata. Additionally, developers can easily release beta versions or roll out updates in stages.
Overall, Apple’s process is more stringent, time-consuming, and costly, while Google Play provides a faster, more affordable, and less restrictive experience for developers.
How does Adalo make publishing apps easier for beginners?
Adalo makes app publishing straightforward by offering a user-friendly, no-code platform. With its drag-and-drop tools and pre-designed templates, you can create apps without needing any coding experience. Plus, Adalo handles the technical side of things, like preparing your app for submission to the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
This platform is perfect for beginners, allowing them to focus on designing and personalizing their app. Meanwhile, Adalo takes care of generating essential files, ensuring compliance with platform requirements, and guiding users step-by-step through the submission process. The result? A smoother path to launching your app without the usual headaches.
What mistakes should I avoid when submitting my app to app stores?
Submitting your app to app stores can feel thrilling, but even minor oversights can cause frustrating delays or outright rejections. Here are some common issues to watch out for:
- Using outdated SDKs or skipping OS testing: Always build your app with the latest SDK and test it on the most current operating systems. Relying on older tools or neglecting testing on updated devices is a surefire way to get flagged for rejection.
- Errors in metadata: Make sure every detail - like your app's name, description, keywords, age rating, and privacy policy - is accurate and complete. Even seemingly small issues, like broken links or outdated screenshots, can result in unnecessary delays.
- Missing assets or undeclared permissions: Platforms like Google Play require specific assets, such as app icons and screenshots, for your store listing. Additionally, ensure all permissions your app uses are properly declared. Overlooking these essentials can stall the approval process.
By tackling these problems ahead of time, you'll save yourself headaches and help your app sail through the approval process.
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