How Long Does App Store Review Take?
Updated: October 2026
Apple has said that most app submissions are reviewed within about 24 hours, and many are reviewed within one to two days. Some take longer, especially new apps, apps with complex features, or submissions during busy periods. A rejection adds another full cycle, which is why testing first saves the most time.
The typical timeline
- Waiting for Review: your app is in the queue. This can take hours or a day or two.
- In Review: a reviewer is checking it. This is often short.
- Approved, or Rejected: you receive a message in App Store Connect.
These are typical patterns, not promises. Apple can change its process, so check Apple’s current information when you plan a launch.
The review statuses explained
| Status | What it means |
|---|---|
| Waiting for Review | Submitted and in the queue |
| In Review | A reviewer is checking your app |
| Rejected | A problem was found. Read the message |
| Pending Developer Release | Approved, waiting for you to release it |
| Ready for Sale | Live on the App Store |
What can make the review slower?
- A first submission from a new app or a new developer account
- Complex apps with logins, purchases or special hardware
- Missing demo accounts that cause back-and-forth messages
- A backend that is slow or offline during review
- Busy periods, such as before big holidays or after major iOS releases
- A rejection, followed by a fix and a new submission
The real cost: the rejection loop
One review usually takes about a day. A rejection means you read the message, fix the problem, build, upload and wait again. If this repeats twice, a launch planned for one day can become a week. The review time itself is not the problem. The rejections are.
How to plan your launch date
- Finish your build earlier than your launch date.
- Test the final build on a real iPhone, a few days before submitting.
- Submit with a buffer, so a possible rejection does not ruin the date.
- Choose manual release in App Store Connect if you want to control the exact launch moment.
Checklist: avoid a second review round
- Tested on a real iPhone, not only the Simulator
- Demo account added and working
- Backend live and stable
- Links open and placeholder content removed
- Clear review notes written
- Screenshots match the real app
Frequently asked questions
Is the first review slower than updates?
It can be. New apps often get a closer look, but there is no fixed rule.
Can I speed up the review?
Apple offers an expedited review request for urgent cases. Use it sparingly and read Apple’s current rules.
Does my app get reviewed on weekends?
Review times can vary with the calendar. Plan a buffer instead of relying on a specific day.
How can I reduce the chance of rejection?
Test early on a real device. RealAppTest tests your build by hand on a real iPhone and sends a detailed report.