How to Publish BuddyBoss App to the Apple App Store

Introduction

Launch your iOS app effortlessly with the BuddyBoss Publishing Service. Our team reviews your app to ensure it complies with Apple App Store guidelines and publishes it using your developer account.

Follow this guide to get your app live quickly and smoothly.

Find out how to use the BuddyBoss Publishing Service

Before You Begin

• Complete all steps in the Apple App Store Publishing Checklist.
  
• Finalize your app customizations.
  
• Generate the required app screenshots for your white-label app.
  

Download the IPA File

1. In your WordPress admin, go to BuddyBoss App > Builds.
   
2. Locate the build you want to publish and click Download IPA File.
   
3. Save the IPA file to your computer.
   

Upload the Build to App Store Connect

You will need to upload your build to the TestFlight section of your app in App Store Connect.

• Once in TestFlight, assign the build to an app version, which can then be submitted to Apple for review.
  
• View the full documentation on Uploading iOS Builds to App Store Connect for a more detailed tutorial.
  

To upload a build from BuddyBoss:

1. In WordPress admin, go to BuddyBoss App > Upload > Apple App Store.
   
2. Select the iOS Release App build to upload.
   
   • Only builds already in App Store Connect can be uploaded.
     
   • The build version and code must not exceed any existing build in App Store Connect.
     
3. Click Upload Build.
   

Note: Your build will be uploaded within 15 minutes. You can check the status on the Upload History page.

Submit to Apple for Review

Once your build is uploaded to Apple:

1. Log into App Store Connect.
   
2. Click My Apps, then select your app.
   
3. In the sidebar, click the app version you prepared while completing the publishing checklist.
   
4. Scroll to the Build section and click the + symbol.
   
5. Select the Release App build you wish to attach to this app version and click Done.
   
6. Click Add for Review in the upper-right corner. The app status will change to Ready for Review.
   
7. If you updated any app information, click Continue when prompted.
   
8. You may view the items you’ve added for review in the App Review section of the sidebar.
   
9. Respond to export compliance questions and upload any required encryption authorization documents.
   
   • Because all apps are loaded on Apple servers in the United States, they are subject to U.S. export laws.
     
10. In the App Review section, click Submit to App Review.
    
    • The status will change to Waiting for Review, then to In Review once the process starts.
      

Respond to Apple Rejections

If Apple rejects your submission for non-compliance with App Store Review Guidelines, you can correspond with Apple through the App Review section until you resubmit the build.

• You can include attachments, such as screenshots or supporting documents.
  
• If the rejection is due to metadata issues (screenshots, store descriptions, etc.), you can fix the issue and resubmit the same build without needing a new upload.
  

To read and reply to communications from Apple:

1. Log into App Store Connect and click My Apps, then select your app.
   
2. Click the link at the top that indicates unresolved issues.
   
3. In the In Progress section, click Resolve next to the submission you want to review.
   
4. Click Reply to App Review, type your response, and attach any necessary files (screenshots or supporting documents).
   
5. Click Reply to send your response.
   

For a smooth approval process, review common missteps that can cause delays or trigger a rejection.

After Approval by Apple

• If you choose automatic release, your app will go live within 24 hours.
  
• If scheduled for a specific date, it will be released on that date.
  
• If you opted for manual release, log into App Store Connect to publish your app.
  

Submitting New Versions of Your App

To publish new versions:

1. Create a new version using the same app record created for the original version.
   
2. Upload your new app build.
   
3. Submit it to Apple for review.

Troubleshooting & FAQs

Q: Why can’t I see my uploaded build in App Store Connect?
A: It can take up to 15–30 minutes for Apple to process a new build. Refresh the page after some time.

Q: My build version shows an error, what should I check?
A: Ensure the build version and code are higher than the last uploaded build in App Store Connect.

Q: How long does Apple take to review an app?
A: Most reviews take 24–48 hours, but complex apps may take longer.

Q: Can I resubmit the same build if rejected?
A: Yes, if the rejection is due to metadata issues, you can fix the information and resubmit the same build.

Q: How do I handle export compliance questions?
A: If your app uses encryption, you must declare it. For most apps, selecting “Yes” but using standard encryption (e.g., HTTPS) is acceptable.