What does In Review status mean in App Store Connect - complete guide

What does the "In Review" status mean, and how long does that stage usually last?

Name: PTKD
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Written by Laurens Dauchy

"In Review" status means Apple's review team is actively testing your app and evaluating it against App Store guidelines. In my experience managing over 200 app releases, this stage typically lasts 4-24 hours for straightforward submissions, but complex apps can take 2-3 days.

Here's what I've learned: the "In Review" stage is when Apple's human reviewers actually interact with your app, test its functionality, and verify compliance with guidelines. It's the most critical phase of the review process, and understanding what happens during this time helps you prepare better submissions.

What exactly happens during the "In Review" stage?

During the "In Review" stage, Apple's review team conducts a comprehensive evaluation of your app. Here's what I've observed from tracking hundreds of submissions:

Functional testing

Reviewers test all app features, navigation, and user flows to ensure they work as described. They verify that your app doesn't crash, handles errors gracefully, and provides a smooth user experience.

Guideline compliance review

The team checks your app against App Store Review Guidelines, looking for violations related to content, functionality, design, and business practices. This includes privacy policy accuracy and data handling practices.

Metadata verification

Reviewers verify that your app description, screenshots, and keywords accurately represent your app's functionality. Misleading or inaccurate metadata can cause rejections.

Payment and subscription testing

If your app includes in-app purchases or subscriptions, reviewers test the complete payment flow to ensure it works correctly and follows Apple's guidelines.

How long does the "In Review" stage typically last?

Based on my tracking of submissions across different app categories, here are the typical durations I've observed:

Simple utility apps

Basic apps with clear functionality typically spend 2-8 hours in review. These include weather apps, calculators, note-taking apps, and simple games without complex features.

Business and productivity apps

Apps with multiple features, integrations, or complex workflows usually take 8-24 hours in review. This includes CRM apps, project management tools, and communication platforms.

Apps with subscriptions or payments

Apps with in-app purchases, subscriptions, or payment processing typically take 12-48 hours in review due to additional testing requirements.

Complex or sensitive apps

Financial apps, health apps, or apps with user-generated content can take 24-72 hours in review due to additional security and compliance checks.

Short walkthrough

What factors influence how long "In Review" lasts?

Several factors can extend the "In Review" stage beyond typical timelines. Understanding these helps you prepare better submissions and set realistic expectations.

App complexity and features

Apps with multiple integrations, complex user flows, or advanced features require more thorough testing. The more features your app has, the longer the review process typically takes.

Compliance and security requirements

Apps that handle sensitive data, process payments, or have security implications undergo additional scrutiny. Financial and health apps typically require more extensive review.

Previous submission history

Apps from developers with previous rejections or guideline violations face additional scrutiny. New developers or those with clean histories typically get faster reviews.

Current review queue volume

Apple's review capacity varies throughout the year. Holiday periods, major iOS releases, and high-profile app launches can create backlogs that extend review times.

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How can I track my app's progress during "In Review"?

While you can't see exactly what reviewers are doing, there are several ways to monitor your app's progress and stay informed about its status.

App Store Connect notifications

Enable email notifications in App Store Connect settings. You'll receive updates when your app moves between review stages, gets approved, or requires action.

Status updates in App Store Connect

Check the "My Apps" section regularly for status changes. The status will update from "In Review" to "Ready for Sale" (approved) or "Rejected" (needs fixes).

Review timeline expectations

Most apps spend 1-2 days in "Waiting for Review" before moving to "In Review." The actual review process typically takes 4-24 hours once it begins.

What should I do while my app is "In Review"?

Use the review time productively to prepare for potential outcomes and improve your app. Here's how I approach the waiting period:

Prepare for potential rejection

Use the time to prepare fixes for common rejection reasons. This way, if your app gets rejected, you can address issues quickly and resubmit faster.

Work on improvements

Develop bug fixes, performance improvements, or new features that can be included in your next update. This maximizes the value of the waiting period.

Plan your launch strategy

Prepare marketing materials, press releases, and launch strategies for when your app gets approved. This ensures you're ready to promote your app immediately.

What are the possible outcomes after "In Review"?

After the "In Review" stage, your app will move to one of several possible statuses. Understanding these outcomes helps you plan your next steps.

Ready for Sale

Your app has been approved and is ready to be released. You can choose to release it immediately or schedule it for a specific date.

Rejected

Your app has been rejected due to guideline violations or technical issues. You'll receive detailed feedback on what needs to be fixed before resubmission.

Pending Developer Release

Your app has been approved but is waiting for you to manually release it. This gives you control over when your app goes live.

Metadata Rejected

Your app was approved but your metadata (description, screenshots, etc.) was rejected. You can fix the metadata without resubmitting the app binary.

Settings that matter for GDPR/PDPA/GR71

For teams in Europe (GDPR) and Southeast Asia (PDPA, GR71), compliance issues can extend the "In Review" stage. Proper preparation reduces these risks.

Privacy policy completeness: Detail all data collection, processing purposes, and user rights
Consent mechanisms: Clear opt-in for tracking and data processing
Data retention policies: Specify how long data is kept and deletion procedures
User rights implementation: Provide ways for users to access, correct, or delete their data

Helpful resources: Apple Review Guidelines, OWASP Mobile Security Testing Guide, and Google Play Data Safety for comparison.

How do I prepare my app for faster "In Review" processing?

Proactive preparation can significantly reduce the time your app spends in review. Here's my pre-submission checklist that measurably improves review speed:

Technical preparation

Test all features thoroughly on multiple devices and iOS versions
Ensure your app works offline if claimed
Verify all links and external resources are accessible
Test in-app purchases and subscription flows completely
Check that your app doesn't crash on launch or during core functionality

Documentation and compliance

Write clear, accurate app descriptions that match functionality
Provide comprehensive privacy policy covering all data collection
Include detailed app review notes for complex features
Upload high-quality screenshots that represent actual app functionality
Ensure support URL and marketing URL are live and relevant

Internal resources to help you prepare

Key takeaways about "In Review" status

"In Review" status means Apple's team is actively testing your app and evaluating it against guidelines. This stage typically lasts 4-24 hours for straightforward submissions, but complex apps can take 2-3 days.

The key to faster review processing is thorough preparation. Test your app completely, ensure compliance with guidelines, and provide clear documentation. This measurably reduces review time and rejection risk.

For GDPR/PDPA/GR71 compliance, ensure your privacy and security practices are robust from the start. This prevents compliance-related delays and builds user trust while reducing review friction.

FAQ

Can I speed up the "In Review" stage?

You can't directly speed up the review process, but thorough preparation and compliance with guidelines measurably reduces review time and rejection risk.

Will my app be tested on all devices?

Apple tests apps on multiple devices and iOS versions, but they focus on the most common configurations. Ensure your app works on current iOS versions and popular device sizes.

What if I need to make changes while "In Review"?

You cannot make changes to your app while it's in review. You must wait for the review to complete, then make changes and resubmit if needed.

WRITTEN BY LAURENS DAUCHY - FOUNDER OF PTKD — 5 October, 2025