How to reserve an app name on App Store before development

    How to Reserve an App Name Before Development Is Done

    I create a placeholder app in App Store Connect as soon as I have a bundle ID and name. Apple gives you 90 days to submit your first build—after that, the name becomes available again. I always check availability first, then claim it immediately to avoid competitors grabbing it. Here's my exact process for protecting app names early.

    How app name reservation works

    Creating an app listing in App Store Connect reserves the name temporarily.

    • Name is reserved for 90 days from creation
    • Must submit first build within that window
    • Name becomes available if you don't submit
    • No payment required until you submit for review

    Short walktrough

    My step-by-step reservation process

    I claim names as soon as I have a clear concept and bundle ID.

    1. Check name availability in App Store Connect
    2. Create new app with placeholder information
    3. Set bundle ID (can't change later easily)
    4. Add basic metadata to hold the listing
    5. Submit first build within 90 days

    What happens if you miss the 90-day window

    Apple releases the name back to the pool for others to claim.

    • Name becomes available to other developers
    • You can't extend the reservation period
    • Must create a new app listing with different name
    • Previous app data is lost

    Strategies for protecting multiple names

    I use a systematic approach for brand protection.

    Primary: "Budget Tracker Pro"
Variants: "Budget Tracker", "Budget Pro", "My Budget"
Defensive: "Budget Tracker 2025", "Budget Tracker Plus"
Check trademarks and domain availability first

    Common mistakes I avoid

    These errors can cost you the name you want.

    • Waiting too long to check availability
    • Not having a bundle ID ready
    • Forgetting to submit within 90 days
    • Not checking trademark conflicts

    Settings that matter for GDPR/PDPA/GR71

    App names and metadata affect privacy compliance expectations.

    • GDPR: ensure name doesn't mislead about data collection
    • PDPA: verify name aligns with stated purposes
    • GR71: check local naming restrictions and requirements

    Regional guides: PDPA ·GR71

    Authoritative references

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    FAQ

    Can I change my app name after reservation?

    Yes, but it may affect your ASO and user recognition.

    What if someone else has the same name?

    Apple allows similar names if they're in different categories or clearly distinct.

    Do I need a paid developer account to reserve names?

    Yes, you need an active Apple Developer Program membership.

    Key takeaways about app name reservation

    • Create app listing in App Store Connect to reserve names for 90 days.
    • Submit first build within the window or lose the name.
    • Check GDPR/PDPA/GR71 compliance for name and metadata claims.

    Read more

    Create listing
    Create Listing
    App name length
    App Name Length
    App name guidelines
    Name Guidelines
    PDPA
    PDPA Security Assessment

    WRITTEN BY LAURENS DAUCHY – FOUNDER OF PTKD | 5 October, 2025