App Store

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The App Store allows users around the world to discover and download your iOS and iPadOS apps.

Posts under App Store tag

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Critical: finishTransaction() fails to clear queue in iOS 26.2 Sandbox (TestFlight)
Environment OS: iOS 26.2 (Beta/Release) Framework: StoreKit 1 (or StoreKit 2) Environment: TestFlight / Sandbox Device: [Insert your device model, e.g., iPhone 15 Pro] Description I am encountering a persistent issue where SKPaymentQueue.default().finishTransaction(transaction) does not successfully remove the transaction from the queue. Every time a new purchase is initiated, the observer triggers an immediate update with the previous transaction's ID (Transaction ID). The system then displays a system alert stating: "You've already purchased this In-App Purchase. It will be restored for free." Even after explicitly calling finishTransaction, the same transaction reappears in the updatedTransactions array upon the next app launch or purchase attempt. Steps to Reproduce Add a transaction observer in didFinishLaunchingWithOptions. Initiate an In-App Purchase in TestFlight. Upon success (.purchased), call SKPaymentQueue.default().finishTransaction(transaction). Attempt to buy the same non-consumable item (or any item) again. Result: The previous transaction is pushed again, and the queue never clears. What I’ve Tried Ensured finishTransaction is called on the main thread. Verified that the observer is added at app launch. Manually iterating through SKPaymentQueue.default().transactions and finishing all entries. Signed out of the Sandbox account and used a completely new test account. Deleted and reinstalled the App via TestFlight.
1
0
298
Feb ’26
Can I remove iPad support from my app on a new release?
Hi, I have a completely new release of my app coming out with a new tech stack. I noticed that only 1% of my users were on iPad so the new app was not created to be 'compatible' with iPad including how it looks on iPad. Can I release this new version of the app only for iPhone? Or because it was previously available for iPad I have to release for iPad as well? Really appreciate any support/guidance on this. Thank you!
10
7
43k
Feb ’26
App "In review" for long time
Dear App Review Team, Our app – Apple ID 6756967338, has been stuck in the “In Review” status for over 10 days (Jan, 19 at 1:33 PM). Normally, reviews begin within a few days, but in our case, it seems unusually delayed. Could you please clarify: • Is there a specific reason for this hold? • Is any action required from our side? • When can we expect the review to finish? Thank you very much for your time and assistance.
3
0
357
Feb ’26
Enrollment Stuck in "Processing" for Organization
Hello everyone, I’m currently enrolling as an Organization from Albania and I’ve been stuck on the "Enrolling" status for 8 business days now. I have my D-U-N-S number sorted and everything was submitted. I sent an email last week to the support but I haven't heard back yet. I’ve already sent another support message 2 days ago but no reply so far. I’m curious to hear from others who have enrolled recently (especially in 2026): How long did your organization verification take? Did you receive a verification phone call, or was it just approved via email? For those in the Balkans/Europe, did you have to provide extra local business registry documents (like the QKB extract) manually? I’m trying to time my launch with my Google Play release, so I’m a bit anxious about the "black hole" of waiting. Any experiences or "nudge" tips would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!
0
0
252
Feb ’26
As iOS developers, what’s the biggest pain point you’d like Apple to fix?
I’ve observed several areas in iOS where user experience could be enhanced, such as keyboard flexibility, animation speed, biometric options, cache management, background uploads, navigation reliability, and automation features. Addressing these aspects would not only improve usability but also align iOS more closely with diverse user needs across regions and use cases. What enhancements would you consider most valuable?
5
1
312
Feb ’26
Adding iOS companion later to WatchOS-only app
I had a Watch-only app on the AppStore, and decided to add an iOS companion app now. Technically this was very easy, adding just an according target to my project. TestFlight tests where successful, IAPs remained valid for the whole setup etc., watch app could remain standalone as well -- so everything looked "Go" for release. But now customers that already previously downloaded the watch app just see "Purchased" in the AppStore for the app, and they neither automatically get the iOS companion through the update process, nor can they force a download (as there is no cloud icon to explicitly do so -- just the greyed-out "Purchased" button). The watch app updates automatically to the new version, but it seems impossible to initiate the iOS app download. The initial download of the watch-only app also doesn't show up in their list of purchases/download (only on the watch AppStore app, but from there, the iOS app won't be forced to install either). Did anyone face this also and can recommend a solution that can be communicated to affected (i.e. all so far...) customers?
1
0
179
Feb ’26
App Review Delayed for Several Days After Multiple Submissions (iOS 1.0.1)
Hello everyone, I’m looking for some guidance regarding the App Store review process. We submitted our app Desteno (iOS version 1.0.1) for review for the fifth time on Tuesday, and as of Saturday, it has been more than four days. The app is still not live on the App Store, and we haven’t received any update, rejection, or message from the App Review team. We understand that review times can vary, but this delay after multiple submissions is a bit unclear for us. There are no pending messages or requests visible in App Store Connect. Has anyone else experienced a similar delay recently? Is there any recommended next step—such as contacting App Review through Resolution Center or waiting longer? Any insights or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance. — Kartikey (Desteno)
2
0
514
Feb ’26
Why does my app not appear in App Store search results even though the keyword is added in App metadata?
In App Store Connect metadata I added keywords expecting App Store and Apple Watch searches to surface my app using those terms. However searching those keywords does not show my app and it only appears when I search by the app name so I am unsure what is incorrect.
1
1
129
Feb ’26
How has your experience with ASO been, and did paid App Store ads make a noticeable positive impact?
I’m launching my game on May 9 and have been going through Apple’s App Store course. It’s informative but also feels like a marketing push. For those who’ve tried App Store campaigns, did they actually drive results like views, conversions, or in-app purchases? Sharing your app/industry for context would be super helpful.
2
0
330
Feb ’26
iOS app marketing and ASO can be really challenging and frustrating.
I’ve been working on marketing my iOS app, but it’s been quite frustrating so far. ASO hasn’t brought the results I expected, and I’m not sure what to try next. I’d like to learn more about indie app marketing beyond keyword tweaks-any blogs, courses, books, or communities you’d recommend for understanding effective strategies and improving app visibility?
2
1
179
Feb ’26
Sharing IAPs between apps
I have had an App (AngelNav) available on the App Store since 2023 which was written for iOS v15.0 or later. I am working on a new version which has the same functionality, but a radically new interface as well as taking advantage of the latest features in SwiftUI. I am writing it from the bottom up for iOS26 to ensure a clean codebase to ease maintenance. As I understand it I have the following options: Issue an update to the existing app. This is easy to do but creates a problem for those users with iOS26 who prefer the old interface. In addition I can't see a way to implement bug fixes for previous versions Create a new app (AngelNavNeo). This would allow users with iOS26 who prefer the old interface to stick with it, and I can issue bug fixes on the old version. However, there is no way to share already purchased in-app purchases between versions without a server-side solution and the need for user accounts on my server (neither of which I want to do). Is my understanding is correct, and have I missed anything?
0
0
245
Feb ’26
URGENT: App & Developer Name completely missing from Search Index (2.5 weeks live, 2k+ DLs)
Hi there, I’m writing this because I’m feeling incredibly frustrated and downbeat. I launched my app about two and a half weeks ago, and while it’s been a success in terms of users—with over 2k downloads and 35 five-star reviews via Reddit—it is currently invisible when searched for on the App Store (it can be found by direct link or Google search). Even when searching for the exact app name or my developer name (Robert Lothian), nothing comes up. It’s as if the app doesn't exist in your search database. To make matters worse, the app was featured in several articles, podcasts, and live streams last week. Because of this search issue, potential users who heard about the app couldn't find it. This has not only stunted my growth during a critical launch window but I fear it is causing genuine damage to my reputation as a developer. I raised a ticket last Saturday (102811242184) but haven't heard anything back, I just did a follow-up ticket just now, as it has been a week. I truly believe this is a backend synchronisation issue that just needs a quick look from the engineering team to reset the index for my App ID. Please, can someone look into this or escalate it? I’ve worked so hard on this launch, and it’s heart-wrenching to see it blocked by a technical glitch. App Name: Archivist Browser App ID: 6756570654 Best regards, Robert Lothian
0
0
172
Jan ’26
How do you run A/B tests for your iOS app icon in App Store Connect?
Apple’s documentation indicates that iOS now supports A/B testing for app icons, but I haven’t been able to get it working. My app already includes alternate icons within the same binary, yet when I try to set up an A/B test in App Store Connect, there’s no option to change the icon-only screenshots can be updated in a new treatment.
2
0
159
Jan ’26
Is It Still Possible for Indie iOS Apps to Thrive in 2025?
Once, the App Store empowered indie creators - small teams could launch great apps and find users easily. But in 2025, that era feels long gone, with algorithms, big players, and pay-to-win discoverability reshaping everything. Is there still a real chance for indie iOS developers today, or has Apple’s evolving ecosystem made independent success nearly impossible?
3
1
465
Jan ’26
Any strategies for leveraging review responses to improve ASO results?
I’ve been building iOS apps since 2011 and have worked on hundreds along the way. Recently, I started a series on App Store Optimization (ASO) to share tips, strategies, and lessons learned. In this first post, I dive into how responding to customer reviews can directly influence ASO performance and App Store ranking - covering timing, response style, and best practices to turn negative reviews into positive ones.
2
1
165
Jan ’26
Why are apps invisible in the App Store, and which ASO tips work in 2025?
Even the best apps struggle to get noticed—over 5 million apps compete in stores, and most never hit 1,000 downloads. Visibility, not quality, is the real challenge. App Store Optimization (ASO) is the key to breaking through. Optimizing your app’s title, keywords, visuals, and description, combined with ongoing testing and competitor analysis, can drastically improve discoverability and downloads in 2025.
2
1
120
Jan ’26
Critical: finishTransaction() fails to clear queue in iOS 26.2 Sandbox (TestFlight)
Environment OS: iOS 26.2 (Beta/Release) Framework: StoreKit 1 (or StoreKit 2) Environment: TestFlight / Sandbox Device: [Insert your device model, e.g., iPhone 15 Pro] Description I am encountering a persistent issue where SKPaymentQueue.default().finishTransaction(transaction) does not successfully remove the transaction from the queue. Every time a new purchase is initiated, the observer triggers an immediate update with the previous transaction's ID (Transaction ID). The system then displays a system alert stating: "You've already purchased this In-App Purchase. It will be restored for free." Even after explicitly calling finishTransaction, the same transaction reappears in the updatedTransactions array upon the next app launch or purchase attempt. Steps to Reproduce Add a transaction observer in didFinishLaunchingWithOptions. Initiate an In-App Purchase in TestFlight. Upon success (.purchased), call SKPaymentQueue.default().finishTransaction(transaction). Attempt to buy the same non-consumable item (or any item) again. Result: The previous transaction is pushed again, and the queue never clears. What I’ve Tried Ensured finishTransaction is called on the main thread. Verified that the observer is added at app launch. Manually iterating through SKPaymentQueue.default().transactions and finishing all entries. Signed out of the Sandbox account and used a completely new test account. Deleted and reinstalled the App via TestFlight.
Replies
1
Boosts
0
Views
298
Activity
Feb ’26
Can I remove iPad support from my app on a new release?
Hi, I have a completely new release of my app coming out with a new tech stack. I noticed that only 1% of my users were on iPad so the new app was not created to be 'compatible' with iPad including how it looks on iPad. Can I release this new version of the app only for iPhone? Or because it was previously available for iPad I have to release for iPad as well? Really appreciate any support/guidance on this. Thank you!
Replies
10
Boosts
7
Views
43k
Activity
Feb ’26
Remove iPad from build
We have submitted our app as both iPhone and iPad compatible - we want to remove iPad, but can't find how to do that in the App Store Connect console - any ideas? Thanks in advance Kjell
Replies
1
Boosts
0
Views
582
Activity
Feb ’26
App "In review" for long time
Dear App Review Team, Our app – Apple ID 6756967338, has been stuck in the “In Review” status for over 10 days (Jan, 19 at 1:33 PM). Normally, reviews begin within a few days, but in our case, it seems unusually delayed. Could you please clarify: • Is there a specific reason for this hold? • Is any action required from our side? • When can we expect the review to finish? Thank you very much for your time and assistance.
Replies
3
Boosts
0
Views
357
Activity
Feb ’26
Enrollment Stuck in "Processing" for Organization
Hello everyone, I’m currently enrolling as an Organization from Albania and I’ve been stuck on the "Enrolling" status for 8 business days now. I have my D-U-N-S number sorted and everything was submitted. I sent an email last week to the support but I haven't heard back yet. I’ve already sent another support message 2 days ago but no reply so far. I’m curious to hear from others who have enrolled recently (especially in 2026): How long did your organization verification take? Did you receive a verification phone call, or was it just approved via email? For those in the Balkans/Europe, did you have to provide extra local business registry documents (like the QKB extract) manually? I’m trying to time my launch with my Google Play release, so I’m a bit anxious about the "black hole" of waiting. Any experiences or "nudge" tips would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!
Replies
0
Boosts
0
Views
252
Activity
Feb ’26
As iOS developers, what’s the biggest pain point you’d like Apple to fix?
I’ve observed several areas in iOS where user experience could be enhanced, such as keyboard flexibility, animation speed, biometric options, cache management, background uploads, navigation reliability, and automation features. Addressing these aspects would not only improve usability but also align iOS more closely with diverse user needs across regions and use cases. What enhancements would you consider most valuable?
Replies
5
Boosts
1
Views
312
Activity
Feb ’26
Transaction can not finish in OS26.2 TestFlight
Transaction can not finish in OS26.2 TestFlight
Replies
0
Boosts
0
Views
131
Activity
Feb ’26
Adding iOS companion later to WatchOS-only app
I had a Watch-only app on the AppStore, and decided to add an iOS companion app now. Technically this was very easy, adding just an according target to my project. TestFlight tests where successful, IAPs remained valid for the whole setup etc., watch app could remain standalone as well -- so everything looked "Go" for release. But now customers that already previously downloaded the watch app just see "Purchased" in the AppStore for the app, and they neither automatically get the iOS companion through the update process, nor can they force a download (as there is no cloud icon to explicitly do so -- just the greyed-out "Purchased" button). The watch app updates automatically to the new version, but it seems impossible to initiate the iOS app download. The initial download of the watch-only app also doesn't show up in their list of purchases/download (only on the watch AppStore app, but from there, the iOS app won't be forced to install either). Did anyone face this also and can recommend a solution that can be communicated to affected (i.e. all so far...) customers?
Replies
1
Boosts
0
Views
179
Activity
Feb ’26
App Review Delayed for Several Days After Multiple Submissions (iOS 1.0.1)
Hello everyone, I’m looking for some guidance regarding the App Store review process. We submitted our app Desteno (iOS version 1.0.1) for review for the fifth time on Tuesday, and as of Saturday, it has been more than four days. The app is still not live on the App Store, and we haven’t received any update, rejection, or message from the App Review team. We understand that review times can vary, but this delay after multiple submissions is a bit unclear for us. There are no pending messages or requests visible in App Store Connect. Has anyone else experienced a similar delay recently? Is there any recommended next step—such as contacting App Review through Resolution Center or waiting longer? Any insights or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance. — Kartikey (Desteno)
Replies
2
Boosts
0
Views
514
Activity
Feb ’26
Why does my app not appear in App Store search results even though the keyword is added in App metadata?
In App Store Connect metadata I added keywords expecting App Store and Apple Watch searches to surface my app using those terms. However searching those keywords does not show my app and it only appears when I search by the app name so I am unsure what is incorrect.
Replies
1
Boosts
1
Views
129
Activity
Feb ’26
How has your experience with ASO been, and did paid App Store ads make a noticeable positive impact?
I’m launching my game on May 9 and have been going through Apple’s App Store course. It’s informative but also feels like a marketing push. For those who’ve tried App Store campaigns, did they actually drive results like views, conversions, or in-app purchases? Sharing your app/industry for context would be super helpful.
Replies
2
Boosts
0
Views
330
Activity
Feb ’26
iOS app marketing and ASO can be really challenging and frustrating.
I’ve been working on marketing my iOS app, but it’s been quite frustrating so far. ASO hasn’t brought the results I expected, and I’m not sure what to try next. I’d like to learn more about indie app marketing beyond keyword tweaks-any blogs, courses, books, or communities you’d recommend for understanding effective strategies and improving app visibility?
Replies
2
Boosts
1
Views
179
Activity
Feb ’26
Sharing IAPs between apps
I have had an App (AngelNav) available on the App Store since 2023 which was written for iOS v15.0 or later. I am working on a new version which has the same functionality, but a radically new interface as well as taking advantage of the latest features in SwiftUI. I am writing it from the bottom up for iOS26 to ensure a clean codebase to ease maintenance. As I understand it I have the following options: Issue an update to the existing app. This is easy to do but creates a problem for those users with iOS26 who prefer the old interface. In addition I can't see a way to implement bug fixes for previous versions Create a new app (AngelNavNeo). This would allow users with iOS26 who prefer the old interface to stick with it, and I can issue bug fixes on the old version. However, there is no way to share already purchased in-app purchases between versions without a server-side solution and the need for user accounts on my server (neither of which I want to do). Is my understanding is correct, and have I missed anything?
Replies
0
Boosts
0
Views
245
Activity
Feb ’26
URGENT: App & Developer Name completely missing from Search Index (2.5 weeks live, 2k+ DLs)
Hi there, I’m writing this because I’m feeling incredibly frustrated and downbeat. I launched my app about two and a half weeks ago, and while it’s been a success in terms of users—with over 2k downloads and 35 five-star reviews via Reddit—it is currently invisible when searched for on the App Store (it can be found by direct link or Google search). Even when searching for the exact app name or my developer name (Robert Lothian), nothing comes up. It’s as if the app doesn't exist in your search database. To make matters worse, the app was featured in several articles, podcasts, and live streams last week. Because of this search issue, potential users who heard about the app couldn't find it. This has not only stunted my growth during a critical launch window but I fear it is causing genuine damage to my reputation as a developer. I raised a ticket last Saturday (102811242184) but haven't heard anything back, I just did a follow-up ticket just now, as it has been a week. I truly believe this is a backend synchronisation issue that just needs a quick look from the engineering team to reset the index for my App ID. Please, can someone look into this or escalate it? I’ve worked so hard on this launch, and it’s heart-wrenching to see it blocked by a technical glitch. App Name: Archivist Browser App ID: 6756570654 Best regards, Robert Lothian
Replies
0
Boosts
0
Views
172
Activity
Jan ’26
How do you run A/B tests for your iOS app icon in App Store Connect?
Apple’s documentation indicates that iOS now supports A/B testing for app icons, but I haven’t been able to get it working. My app already includes alternate icons within the same binary, yet when I try to set up an A/B test in App Store Connect, there’s no option to change the icon-only screenshots can be updated in a new treatment.
Replies
2
Boosts
0
Views
159
Activity
Jan ’26
Is iOS Product Page Optimization no longer available in App Store Connect
I am using Product Page Optimization for the first time and after updating a new app version the test stopped automatically. The status shows developer has stopped with no option to restart the test even though I did not stop it.
Replies
1
Boosts
0
Views
88
Activity
Jan ’26
Is It Still Possible for Indie iOS Apps to Thrive in 2025?
Once, the App Store empowered indie creators - small teams could launch great apps and find users easily. But in 2025, that era feels long gone, with algorithms, big players, and pay-to-win discoverability reshaping everything. Is there still a real chance for indie iOS developers today, or has Apple’s evolving ecosystem made independent success nearly impossible?
Replies
3
Boosts
1
Views
465
Activity
Jan ’26
Are there tools or techniques to track Apple App Store search rankings for apps
I want a programmatic way to monitor my app search ranking on the Apple App Store. Is there any API or external website available besides checking directly in the App Store app on iPhone?
Replies
1
Boosts
0
Views
72
Activity
Jan ’26
Any strategies for leveraging review responses to improve ASO results?
I’ve been building iOS apps since 2011 and have worked on hundreds along the way. Recently, I started a series on App Store Optimization (ASO) to share tips, strategies, and lessons learned. In this first post, I dive into how responding to customer reviews can directly influence ASO performance and App Store ranking - covering timing, response style, and best practices to turn negative reviews into positive ones.
Replies
2
Boosts
1
Views
165
Activity
Jan ’26
Why are apps invisible in the App Store, and which ASO tips work in 2025?
Even the best apps struggle to get noticed—over 5 million apps compete in stores, and most never hit 1,000 downloads. Visibility, not quality, is the real challenge. App Store Optimization (ASO) is the key to breaking through. Optimizing your app’s title, keywords, visuals, and description, combined with ongoing testing and competitor analysis, can drastically improve discoverability and downloads in 2025.
Replies
2
Boosts
1
Views
120
Activity
Jan ’26