More Developers Report App Store Review Delays at Apple

A growing number of developers say they face delays when they submit apps or updates to the Apple App Store. This slowdown could affect how quickly new apps reach iPhone and iPad users — and may pressure Apple to improve its review process.

What Developers Are Saying

Several app creators recently shared that Apple is taking longer than usual to approve apps and updates. They say reviews now often take multiple days rather than the usual 24–48 hours. Some report waits of a week or more. Because of this, some planned updates have been postponed, and some app releases have been delayed.

The delay applies not only to new apps, but also to routine updates — bug fixes, small improvements, and even price changes. Several independent developers say this affects their workflow. Some worry users might see older versions or bugs longer than expected.

Why the Slowdown Might Be Happening

Tech watchers offer several possible reasons for the slowdown:

• Increased submission volume: More developers may be building for iPhone and iPad now, creating a backlog for Apple’s review team.
• Stricter review rules: Apple may be enforcing tighter checks on privacy, security, or content before approving apps. These checks take time.
• Holiday season rush: As the end of the year approaches, many developers push updates or new apps — and Apple’s review team may be overwhelmed.
• Internal resource shifts: Apple may be reallocating staff to other projects, which could reduce review capacity temporarily.

What This Means for Users

For everyday iPhone or iPad users, this may mean:

• Apps or updates may arrive slower than usual.
• Some bug fixes might take longer to reach users.
• Developers may delay new features until review backlog clears.

If you follow apps closely, you might notice slower update cycles in the next few weeks.

Impact on Small Developers and Indie Creators

Independent developers often rely on quick updates. A delay can affect bug fixes, small improvements, or timed promotions. For small teams, time is precious — and review delays may force them to postpone or cancel plans.

Some indie creators say they may wait longer before submitting future updates. Others say they might need to budget more time for reviews. This could discourage smaller developers from frequent updates, which may reduce overall app innovation and variety in the store.

What Apple Could Do to Improve

Observers suggest a few ways Apple could address the problem:

• Increase review staff or temporary reviewers to clear backlog.
• Prioritize routine updates and bug fixes to speed up user-facing changes.
• Improve communication with developers, offering clearer timelines or status updates.
• Streamline review criteria for small updates to save time while maintaining quality.

If Apple takes action, review times may return to normal soon — and trust may improve among developers.

Why This Story Matters

The App Store is a central part of Apple’s ecosystem. It powers iPhones, iPads, and other devices with apps from small indie developers to large companies. If app review slows down significantly, that ecosystem may feel less responsive.

For developers, users, and Apple itself, review speed — even for small updates — influences how people perceive the platform’s reliability. Many rely on timely patches for bugs, new features, and content updates. Delays may erode confidence over time.

Final Thoughts

Recent reports of review delays at Apple’s App Store suggest a growing challenge for developers and users alike. Submissions now take longer to clear. Updates may arrive slowly. Some developers feel pressure and worry about release schedules.

If Apple addresses the issue quickly — by boosting review staff, improving processes, or streamlining checks — the impact may fade. Until then, both developers and users may notice slower update cycles and delayed app releases.