The Apple App Store review process is often perceived as a gatekeeper to success for app developers. However, for many indie developers, this process can feel less like a fair evaluation and more like navigating an obstacle course filled with inconsistent rules and arbitrary decisions. One of the most frustrating aspects highlighted by developers is the seemingly contradictory stance on app comparisons during the review.
Many developers, especially those new to the ecosystem, attempt to understand the App Store guidelines by looking at existing apps. It’s a natural and logical approach – to see what’s already been approved and assume similar apps will also pass review. However, this approach often backfires. Developers report being told directly by the App Review team that they are “not allowed to compare themselves to other apps” when trying to justify their app’s functionality or appeal a rejection.
This “no comparison” rule creates a confusing and often unfair playing field. Imagine an indie developer pointing out several apps already live in the App Store that function identically to their rejected app, only to be dismissed with the assertion that such comparisons are invalid. This situation raises serious questions about the consistency and transparency of the entire review process. It feels particularly disheartening when developers, seeking clarity and fairness, are met with what can feel like an arbitrary wall.
The issue becomes even more concerning when considering the experiences of minority developers. If some indie developers find the review process challenging, anecdotal evidence suggests that developers from minority backgrounds may face disproportionately higher hurdles. When rejections appear inconsistent and justifications are vague, it’s easy to see how developers can feel unfairly targeted. The inability to even reference approved apps as benchmarks further isolates developers and intensifies the feeling of a biased system.
For indie developers, the App Store is a crucial marketplace. Dealing with seemingly arbitrary rejections and being told they cannot compare their work to existing apps creates not only frustration but also significant mental and emotional strain. A fair and transparent app review process should ideally provide clear guidelines and consistent application, allowing developers to understand the standards and improve their apps accordingly. Instead, the current system, with its “no comparison” rule, often feels opaque and unfairly burdensome, especially for smaller developers striving for success in a competitive market.
