Introduction #
Publishing your iOS app to the Apple App Store is straightforward with the Publishing Service. The team ensures your app meets Apple’s App Store guidelines, manages the submission process, and publishes it using your developer account.
This guide walks you through downloading your IPA file, uploading it to App Store Connect, submitting it for review, handling rejections, and publishing updates.
Before You Begin #
- Complete all steps in the Apple App Store Publishing Checklist.
- Finalize all app customizations.
- Generate the required app screenshots for your white-label app.
Download the IPA File #
- In your WordPress Dashboard, go to LearnDash App > Builds.
- Locate the build you want to publish and click Download IPA File.
- Save the IPA file to your computer.
Upload the Build to App Store Connect #
You must upload your build to the TestFlight section of App Store Connect before submitting it for review.
- In WordPress, go to LearnDash App > Upload > Apple App Store.a
- Select the iOS Release App build to upload.
- Only builds already in App Store Connect can be uploaded.
- The build version and code must be higher than any existing build in App Store Connect.
- Only builds already in App Store Connect can be uploaded.
- Click Upload Build.
- Allow up to 15 minutes for the upload to complete. Check progress in Upload History.
Submit to Apple for Review #
- Log into App Store Connect.
- Go to My Apps and select your app.
- In the sidebar, click the app version prepared during your publishing checklist.
- In the Build section, click the + icon.
- Select the Release App build and click Done.
- Click Add for Review in the top-right corner.
- If prompted, review and confirm updated app information.
- Respond to export compliance questions and upload any required encryption documentation.
- In App Review, click Submit to App Review.
- The status will change to Waiting for Review and later to In Review.
- The status will change to Waiting for Review and later to In Review.
Respond to Apple Rejections #
If Apple rejects your submission:
- Log into App Store Connect and go to My Apps.
- Click the unresolved issues link at the top.
- In In Progress, click Resolve next to the rejected submission.
- Click Reply to App Review and provide your response.
- Attach any necessary screenshots or supporting documents.
- Click Reply to send your response.
Notes:
- If the rejection is due to metadata issues (e.g., screenshots, descriptions), you can fix the details and resubmit without uploading a new build.
- For functional issues, you must upload a new build and resubmit.
After Approval by Apple #
- Automatic release: App goes live within 24 hours.
- Scheduled release: App will be published on the specified date.
- Manual release: Log into App Store Connect to publish manually.
Submitting New Versions of Your App #
- In App Store Connect, create a new version under the existing app record.
- Upload your new build.
- Submit the new version to Apple for review.
Troubleshooting and FAQs #
Q: Why can’t I see my uploaded build in App Store Connect?
A: Apple may take 15–30 minutes to process a new build. Refresh the page after some time.
Q: My build version shows an error. What should I check?
A: Ensure the build version and code are higher than your last uploaded build.
Q: How long does Apple take to review an app?
A: Most reviews take 24–48 hours. More complex apps may take longer.
Q: Can I resubmit the same build if rejected?
A: Yes, for metadata-related rejections. For functional issues, submit a new build.
Q: How do I answer export compliance questions?
A: If your app uses encryption (e.g., HTTPS), declare it as required. For most apps, selecting “Yes” with standard encryption is acceptable.