Publishing FAQs
Questions about getting your app to users via TestFlight and the App Store.Do I need an Apple Developer account?
Do I need an Apple Developer account?
For testing on your own device: No, but apps expire after 7 days.For TestFlight or App Store: Yes, you need an Apple Developer Program membership ($99/year).There’s no way around this for distribution. It’s an Apple requirement for all iOS apps.
How much does the Apple Developer account cost?
How much does the Apple Developer account cost?
$99 per year for individuals.Organizations also pay $99/year but need a D-U-N-S number (free to obtain but takes 1-2 weeks).The fee covers:
- TestFlight distribution
- App Store publishing
- Access to developer tools and betas
- 2 technical support incidents
What's the difference between TestFlight and App Store?
What's the difference between TestFlight and App Store?
| Aspect | TestFlight | App Store |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Beta testing | Public release |
| Audience | Invited testers | Everyone |
| Limit | 10,000 testers | Unlimited |
| Review | Quick/None | Full review |
| Expiration | 90 days | Never |
How do I upload to TestFlight?
How do I upload to TestFlight?
- Connect your Apple Developer account in Nativeline Settings
- Create your app in App Store Connect
- Click “Upload to TestFlight” in Nativeline
- Wait for processing (10-30 minutes)
- Invite testers in App Store Connect
How long does App Store review take?
How long does App Store review take?
Typical times:
- TestFlight: 10-30 minutes (internal), 24-48 hours (first external)
- App Store: 24-48 hours
- First submissions
- Complex apps
- Apps with in-app purchases
- During busy periods (holidays, WWDC)
Can my app get rejected?
Can my app get rejected?
Yes. Apple reviews all apps against their guidelines. Common rejection reasons:
- App crashes or bugs
- Incomplete functionality
- Inaccurate description
- Privacy policy issues
- Using wrong payment system for digital goods
What happens if my app is rejected?
What happens if my app is rejected?
- Read Apple’s feedback carefully
- Fix each issue mentioned
- Upload a new build (if code changes needed)
- Reply to Apple explaining your fixes
- Resubmit for review
How many testers can I have on TestFlight?
How many testers can I have on TestFlight?
- Internal testers: Up to 100 (team members)
- External testers: Up to 10,000 (anyone with email)
How do I invite testers to TestFlight?
How do I invite testers to TestFlight?
- Go to App Store Connect → Your App → TestFlight
- Click ”+” to add testers
- Enter email addresses
- Testers receive invitation email
- They install TestFlight app, then your app
Why do TestFlight builds expire?
Why do TestFlight builds expire?
Apple limits TestFlight builds to 90 days to ensure:
- Testers use recent versions
- You’re actively developing
- Security issues don’t persist
What screenshots do I need for the App Store?
What screenshots do I need for the App Store?
At minimum:
- iPhone 6.5” (1284 x 2778)
- iPhone 5.5” (1242 x 2208)
- iPad Pro 12.9” (2048 x 2732)
Do I need a privacy policy?
Do I need a privacy policy?
Yes. Apple requires every app to have a privacy policy URL.Your privacy policy must:
- Be accessible on the web
- Explain what data you collect
- Explain how data is used
- Be in the app’s primary language
Can I charge for my app?
Can I charge for my app?
Yes! Options:
- Paid upfront — User pays to download
- Freemium — Free download, in-app purchases for premium
- Subscription — Recurring payments
- Free with ads — Monetize with advertising
What's the App Store's commission?
What's the App Store's commission?
- 30% standard commission
- 15% for subscriptions after first year
- 15% for Small Business Program (under $1M revenue)
How do I update my app after it's live?
How do I update my app after it's live?
- Make changes in Nativeline
- Increment version/build number
- Upload to App Store Connect
- Submit for review
- Once approved, release the update
Can I publish in specific countries only?
Can I publish in specific countries only?
Yes. In App Store Connect, you can:
- Select specific countries/regions
- Exclude certain countries
- Set different pricing by region
What if I find a critical bug after publishing?
What if I find a critical bug after publishing?
- Fix the bug in Nativeline
- Increment build number
- Upload and submit for review
- Request expedited review (for critical issues)
- Release update immediately when approved