How to Get Your Dating App Approved on the App Store?

Key Takeaways: 

• Apple is tired of "Design Spam." Your dating app must have a unique selling proposition (USP), design, and features to avoid rejection under Guideline 4.3. Innovation, not imitation, is key.

• Dating apps are under intense scrutiny. A robust and transparent privacy policy is non-negotiable. You must also implement strong content moderation and identity verification to protect users from scams and inappropriate content.

• Don't rush. A flawless submission is essential. This includes having a fully functional app with no placeholders or bugs, as well as accurate metadata, compelling screenshots, and a correct Support URL.

• Leveraging AI for features like content moderation (e.g., Lasso) and integrating identity verification solutions (like Veriff) demonstrates a proactive commitment to user safety. These tools can significantly improve your chances of a first-try approval.

• Beyond just features, your app's overall quality must meet Apple's high standards. This means adhering to their Human Interface Guidelines, including "Sign in with Apple" as a login option, and ensuring a polished, bug-free user experience.

To get your dating app approved on the App Store, make sure you don’t copy other famous dating apps' features and offer excellent content moderation on your platform. 

This can be a straightforward suggestion for your problem. But, you know, the dating app landscape has become increasingly saturated.

Launching your app and getting it approved is more challenging than ever before. Apple explicitly states that it will reject any new dating apps unless they provide something new in terms of features, design, and experience. 

What is even more shocking is to know that dating apps are being rejected more than 5 times under Apple’s 4.3 Design spam guidelines, with many facing rejection because they “failed to have a unique USP.” 

So, knowing about the causes that result in Apple’s rejection of apps from the store is more important than ever. 

This blog explores the design spam issue and other reasons that lead to dating app rejection on the App Store. 

Understanding Apple's App Review Guidelines for Dating Apps

You're probably here because you've hit a wall with Apple's approval process, right?

Well, you're definitely not alone in this struggle.

The Apple App Review Guidelines for Dating Apps have become absolutely notorious among developers as well as investors. 

These guidelines cover everything from user interface design to functionality and content standards, too. But, here's the thing – dating apps get the harshest treatment of all.

The Brutal Reality You Need to Know

Here's a statistic that might shock you: 88% of app rejections happen because of the most common mistakes. And dating apps? They face even stricter scrutiny than the average.

Apple doesn't sugarcoat their stance either. They bluntly state, "The App Store has enough dating apps already," and will reject your application unless it delivers something genuinely unique.

But here's what makes this frustrating – the market is absolutely massive.

Bumble pulls in 634,000 monthly downloads in the US alone, with Tinder close behind at 611,000.

Plus, by 2028, the global number of online dating users is expected to reach 452.5 million, revealed in dating app statistics, so you know there's real demand out there.

The big question to ask here is, “Why does your dating app keep getting rejected?”

The problem isn't that people don't want dating apps. The problem is that Apple sees too many copycat applications flooding its store.

When you're figuring out how to develop a dating app, you need to think beyond the standard swipe-left-swipe-right formula. Apple wants innovation, not imitation.

We are your partners, here to share every detail about dating app rejection reasons and how to get approval on the iOS App Store. 

What Are Some Common Reasons For Dating App Rejection? 

Launching a dating app can be a rollercoaster ride, and for many investors, the biggest hurdle is getting their dating app rejected by the Apple App Store.

But don't let that discourage you.

By understanding the top dating app rejection reasons on the iOS store and addressing them proactively, you can significantly increase your chances of success.

It's about more than just coding; it's about building a trustworthy, high-quality product that earns its place on the world's most competitive platform.

1. Design Spam or Cloned Apps

This is a leading cause of rejection and a major obstacle to dating app approval on the Apple Store. 

According to App Store Review Guideline 4.3, apps that are blatant copies of top dating apps or lack original features may be flagged as "design spam." This term refers to apps that either mimic popular ones with minimal changes or provide little value to users, often misleading them with inaccurate descriptions.

Apple’s highly trained review team is tasked with identifying these "template" apps. Guideline 4.3 specifically targets these low-effort, low-value submissions, with the goal of protecting both the user experience and the integrity of the App Store marketplace.

Even if your app performs technically well, if it simply duplicates an existing dating app without offering anything new, it will be rejected. The key to approval is to demonstrate your app's original purpose and value, showcasing how it stands apart from others in the market.

How to Avoid:

• Innovate, Don't Imitate: Before you start an online dating business, identify a unique niche or a compelling feature that solves a specific user problem.

• Invest in Original Design: To create a unique and visually appealing user interface, hire mobile app developers who can craft a distinct and intuitive design for you.

• Show, Don't Tell: Use your screenshots and video previews to clearly highlight your app's unique selling points and original design, proving it’s not just another clone during the iOS app submission.

• Provide a Compelling Narrative: In your submission notes, clearly articulate your app’s vision and what makes it a valuable addition to the App Store.

2. Incomplete App or Placeholder Content

This is one of the most straightforward and preventable reasons for rejection.

If your dating app is not fully functional, contains broken links, or still has "coming soon" placeholders, it signals to the review team that the app is not ready for prime time.

The iOS approval process for dating apps is designed to ensure a seamless experience for users, and an unfinished app fails that fundamental test.

iOS App Developers often rush to submit their dating apps to meet deadlines, but doing so with missing features or non-functional elements will guarantee rejection.

This shows a lack of attention to detail and a disregard for quality control, which are core App Store requirements.

How to Avoid:

• Test, Test, Test: Conduct thorough quality assurance (QA) testing on every feature, link, and button. Every element should work flawlessly before you even think about the mobile app submission guide.

• No Placeholders: Remove all placeholder content. Ensure every screen, icon, and line of text is final and ready for public viewing.

• Realistic Timelines: Do not submit until the app is truly complete. It's better to delay your submission than to get rejected and have to start the process over again.

3. Privacy Policy Issues

Apple has a zero-tolerance policy for apps that don't protect user data.

Missing or unclear privacy policies are a top reason for rejection of dating apps, as they violate fundamental App Store review guidelines.

User trust is paramount in the dating app world, and Apple takes the responsibility of safeguarding that trust very seriously.

Without a transparent policy, users have no way of knowing what data is collected, how it's used, or if it's shared with third parties.

This is a critical point in the iOS dating app approval process and a major stumbling block for many developers.

How to Avoid:

• Be Transparent: Write a clear, easy-to-understand privacy policy that explicitly states what user data you collect (e.g., location, photos, messages), how it's used, and if it’s shared with any third parties.

• Easy Access: Make the privacy policy easily accessible from within the app itself and on your App Store product page.

• Link it Up: Ensure the privacy policy link is working correctly during your mobile app publishing tips checklist and throughout the entire submission process.

4. Poor User Experience (UX) and Design

Apple prides itself on a polished user experience, and a dating app with a cluttered interface, confusing navigation, or poor performance will be rejected.

Strong dating app design ensures the app feels smooth, intuitive, and aligned with Apple’s standards.

A bad user experience can lead to frustrated users and low ratings, which Apple aims to prevent.

For a successful dating app approval on iOS, your design should be clean, logical, and optimized for mobile interaction. This attention to detail demonstrates your commitment to quality that Apple values.

How to Avoid:

• Follow the Human Interface Guidelines: Study and adhere to Apple's Human Interface Guidelines for iOS design to create a familiar and user-friendly experience.

• User Testing: Conduct extensive user testing to identify and fix any usability issues or points of confusion before your dating app submission.

• Focus on Flow: Ensure the user journey, from signup to matching, is smooth and requires minimal effort from the user.

5. Inadequate Content Moderation

Due to the nature of user-generated content, dating apps are held to a very high standard for moderation. 

The App Store requirements demand robust systems to filter out explicit, abusive, or harmful content. Without a clear plan to handle user behavior, your app is at risk for harassment, scams, and unsafe interactions. 

This requirement is essential for passing the iOS app approval process and is a major reason why many dating apps fail to gain approval.

How to Avoid:

• Proactive Tools: Implement automated tools using AI to proactively detect and flag inappropriate content, such as explicit images or hate speech, before it's seen by other users.

• Reactive Reporting: Provide a clear, easy-to-use reporting system that allows users to flag and report problematic content or behavior.

• Swift Action: Have a dedicated moderation team or process to promptly review reported content and take swift action against violators, including banning them from the platform.

6. Misleading Metadata or Description

Your app's metadata-including its title, description, and screenshots, must accurately reflect its functionality.

Using misleading keywords or screenshots can be flagged as an attempt to deceive users and will lead to an immediate rejection.

This is a common pitfall in the mobile app publishing tips landscape. Accuracy and honesty are key to building trust with both Apple's review team and your future users.

How to Avoid:

• Be Honest: Your description should clearly and truthfully describe what your app does. Don't promise features that you have not yet implemented.

• Accurate Screenshots: Use screenshots that genuinely represent the app's features and user interface. Avoid using stock photos or screenshots that are not from your actual app.

• Relevant Keywords: Use relevant keywords in your metadata, but avoid "keyword stuffing" or using competitor names to drive traffic.

7. Bugs and Crashes

If your app crashes during the review process, it will be immediately rejected.

Apple wants to ensure a stable and reliable experience for all users. A buggy dating app not only reflects poorly on your app development process but also creates a frustrating experience for users, leading to bad reviews and uninstalls.

This is a fundamental aspect of any checklist for App Store submission for dating apps.

How to Avoid:

• Comprehensive QA: Perform thorough quality assurance (QA) testing. Test your app on multiple iOS devices and different software versions to ensure stability across the ecosystem.

• Address All Issues: Fix all known bugs before you hit the submit button. Even minor bugs can be a reason for rejection.

• Test Under Load: Simulate real-world usage to test how your app performs under a heavy load or with a large number of concurrent users.

8. Trust & Safety Features

Apple prioritizes user protection, and strong trust and safety features are essential to approve your dating app on the iOS App Store.

Beyond banning explicit content, Apple looks for proactive systems that ensure authenticity, security, and respectful interactions. 

From AI-driven moderation to identity verification, these safeguards demonstrate your commitment to a safe and reliable dating experience.

How to Avoid:

• AI-Powered Moderation: Use tools like Lasso to automatically detect and block harmful or explicit content before users see it.

• Identity Verification: Integrate solutions like Veriff to confirm real user identities and reduce fake accounts or scams.

• Clear Safety Policies: Publish transparent in-app policies outlining consequences for inappropriate behavior and ensure users can easily access them.

9. Failure to Use "Sign in with Apple"

Apple now requires apps that use a third-party login service (like Facebook or Google) to also include "Sign in with Apple" as an option.

Not including this will result in rejection.

This requirement is part of Apple's ongoing commitment to user privacy and control. It's a key detail to remember or work on to pass your dating app on the iOS App Store. 

How to Avoid:

• Integrate the Feature: If you offer any third-party login options, make "Sign in with Apple" a mandatory login option and ensure it's correctly implemented.

• Test it Thoroughly: Test the "Sign in with Apple" flow from start to finish to ensure it works flawlessly and securely.

10. Lack of a Support URL

Every app on the App Store must provide a link to a user support website. 

This is a simple but often overlooked requirement that can lead to rejection. It’s a basic requirement for user trust and a crucial part of the dating app approval process on iOS.

How to Avoid:

• Create a Support Page: Before you start an online dating business, create a simple support page with an FAQ section or contact information.

• Provide a Live Link: Ensure the support URL is live and accessible to Apple's review team during the submission process.

• Link in-app: Make sure the support link is also easily accessible within your app's settings or a help section.

Now that you understand the top mistakes to avoid during your dating app development, it’s time to move forward. Let’s break down the step-by-step submission process for your dating app on the App Store.

How to Submit Your Dating App on the App Store? 

Successfully submitting your dating app on the iOS App Store is more than uploading an app file. Apple evaluates design, functionality, metadata, and security, so a structured approach ensures a smoother approval and better visibility.

In this section, let’s get to know what else Apple evaluates: 

1. Setting Up Your Apple Developer Account

Before you can submit your dating app, you must set up an Apple Developer account. This account is your gateway to publishing your app on the App Store and managing updates, analytics, and app settings securely.

A) Enrollment and Verification Steps

Complete your identity verification, provide the required legal documents, and pay the annual fee. Apple reviews these details to ensure your account is legitimate.

B) Choosing Between Individual vs. Organization Accounts

Decide whether to register as an individual or an organization. Organizations gain brand recognition and multiple team member access, while individuals have a simpler setup but personal naming.

C) Account Setup Checklist

2. Preparing App Metadata and Assets

Carefully preparing metadata and visual assets is critical to making your app stand out.

Proper descriptions, keywords, and screenshots improve discoverability and reduce rejection risks during dating app submission on the iOS App Store.

A) Crafting Compelling App Descriptions and Keywords

Highlight unique features and solve user problems in your app description. Include keywords naturally, such as "dating app" on the Apple App Store.

Here are some SEO Tips for App Store Optimization (ASO)

• Use relevant keywords

• Keep descriptions clear and concise.

• Place the primary keyword within the first 2 sentences.

B) Screenshots, Icons, and Promo Videos

Visual assets demonstrate your app’s functionality. Include high-resolution screenshots, a branded icon, and a short promo video to engage users and reviewers.

C) Design Guidelines to Avoid Rejections

Follow Apple’s Human Interface Guidelines for layouts, readability, and interaction patterns. Clean, intuitive mobile app design increases approval chances.

D) Asset Specification Matrix

3. Submitting Your App for Review

Submitting your app involves more than a simple upload.

Properly using App Store Connect, completing questionnaires, and following all submission steps ensures that your app review proceeds without delays when you submit your dating app to the Apple App Store.

A) Using App Store Connect Effectively

Upload your app, metadata, and pricing. Correct submission improves review speed and reduces rejection risks.

B) Filling Out Questionnaires for Sensitive Apps

Answer questions about user-generated content, privacy, and security. This step is critical for apps that involve dating interactions.

Common Questionnaire Pitfalls

Getting Your Dating App Approved: The App Store Review Process

Submitting a dating app to the iOS App Store requires a meticulous process to ensure it meets Apple's strict guidelines.

Your dating app gets verified on the Apple App Store primarily through a review by human experts who evaluate every aspect, from functionality to content.

They check for stability, user interface design, and adherence to privacy standards. 

What’s more, they check, and what’s the process of getting your dating app verified on the Apple App Store? Know it in this section: 

Step 1: The App Store Connect Submission 

You begin the process by using Apple's web portal, App Store Connect. Here, you'll upload your app's build, as well as all the required metadata. 

This includes your app's name, description, keywords, and screenshots. 

For submitting your dating app on the iOS App Store, you must accurately fill out the content rating questionnaire, especially since it's a sensitive app category.

Step 2: Automated Review 

Upon submission, the app is first subjected to an automated review. 

This system checks for common technical errors, like crashes, placeholder content, or broken links.

It also scans for any obvious malware or privacy violations to ensure a baseline of quality and safety.

Step 3: Human Review 

This is the core of the dating app verification on the App Store. A human reviewer will download and manually test your app on an iOS device.

They check for functionality, adherence to Apple's strict Human Interface Guidelines, and overall user experience. 

This person will confirm that your app looks and feels like a native iOS experience, and that all features work as advertised.

Step 4: Security and Content Vetting 

A key part of iOS App Store verification for your dating apps is a deep dive into security and content.

The reviewer will scrutinize your privacy policy and how you handle user-generated content. You must demonstrate robust moderation and a clear plan for protecting user data.

This is where a professional mobile app development company in Denver that specializes in dating apps can be invaluable, as they will have implemented all the necessary safeguards from the start.

Step 5: Final Decision 

After the reviewer's comprehensive evaluation, a decision is made. If the app passes, it gets approved, and you receive an email.

If there are any issues, you'll receive a detailed rejection notice explaining the reasons and the specific guidelines that were violated, allowing you to fix the problems and resubmit.

A dating app can either pass or get rejected on the Apple App Store, but let's focus on how to pass a dating app on the Apple App Store.

Next up, we will also get to know some expert tips to get your app verified on the iOS store in one go. 

Expert Tips on Getting Your Dating App Approved on the 1st Try

Getting your dating app approved on the App Store doesn’t have to be stressful.

With the right approach and attention to detail, you can make the process smooth and efficient.

Leveraging AI in dating apps can give your app a competitive edge, improve safety, and impress reviewers.

Here are some expert tips to help you get it right the first time:

1] Prioritize Dating App Compliance

Apple has strict rules for dating apps, and failing to follow them can lead to immediate rejection. Make sure your app complies with all content, privacy, and functionality guidelines. 

Every feature, from messaging to user matching, should adhere to dating app compliance standards.

Showing Apple that you’ve built a responsible, rule-abiding app improves approval chances significantly.

2] Use AI-Powered Moderation Like Lasso

Content moderation is a critical factor for approval. 

Tools like Lasso can automatically detect and block inappropriate messages, images, or profiles before they reach users. Implementing AI moderation demonstrates that you are proactive in maintaining a safe environment, which Apple highly values. 

This also reduces the risk of negative user reviews after launch.

3] Integrate Identity Verification with Veriff

Fake profiles and scams are a major concern for dating apps. 

Using Veriff to verify user identities ensures that each account is genuine and trustworthy. 

Apple reviewers pay close attention to how apps protect users from fraud. By adding identity verification, you show a commitment to safety, authenticity, and overall user satisfaction.

4] Focus on Clean, Intuitive App Design

A cluttered or confusing interface is a common reason for rejection. 

Your app should have a smooth flow, simple navigation, and a visually appealing interface. A polished app design not only impresses Apple reviewers but also keeps users engaged. 

Make sure buttons, forms, and interactions feel natural and intuitive across all iOS devices.

5] Test Thoroughly Before Submission

Crashes, bugs, or broken links will get your app rejected immediately. 

Testing your app extensively on multiple iOS devices and different software versions can be a great move. Simulate real-world usage and network conditions to ensure stability. 

A well-tested app demonstrates professionalism, reliability, and attention to detail, which helps you gain trust during the review process.

6] Showcase AI Features Thoughtfully

If your app uses AI for matching, recommendations, or moderation, make sure to highlight these features clearly in your submission notes.

Explain how AI enhances user experience and improves safety, especially in the context of dating apps. Apple reviewers appreciate apps that leverage AI responsibly.

By showcasing these features, you demonstrate innovation and position your app as user-centric.

Partnering with a skilled AI app development company can help you integrate AI seamlessly and ensure it aligns with Apple's standards.

7] Prepare Strong Submission Notes and Screenshots

Your screenshots, videos, and review notes are your chance to tell Apple your app’s story. 

Use them to highlight unique features, safety measures, and user benefits. Explain why your app is different and how it protects users. 

Clear, professional submission materials increase the likelihood that your app will be approved on the first try.

So, these are some ways you can get your dating app approved on the Apple App Store. 

How Can JPLoft Help You Get Approved on the Apple App Store?

Getting your dating app approved on the Apple App Store can feel like navigating a maze, with complex guidelines and high expectations at every turn.

But what if you had a team that’s already cracked the code? That’s where JPLoft, a trusted dating app development company, comes in.

We help you pass your dating app on the Apple App Store, ensuring that it meets all the technical, design, and security standards Apple demands. 

With a strong track record of success, we’ve developed and launched apps like TruuBlue, which was smoothly approved on the App Store.

From concept to launch, our team collaborates closely with you, ensuring seamless functionality, AI-powered features, and adherence to App Store policies. 

With JPLoft by your side, you can confidently bring your dating app to the App Store and turn your vision into reality.

Conclusion

Understanding Apple’s stringent guidelines is key to getting dating app approval on the Apple App Store, as Apple evaluates everything from design and functionality to security and user experience. 

By ensuring your app offers something innovative, maintains high standards for privacy and moderation, and complies with Apple’s expectations, you can significantly increase your chances of approval.

The submission process might seem daunting at first, but with the right preparation, including well-crafted metadata, thorough testing, and proactive safety features, your app can pass the review smoothly. 

It's important to view the process as an opportunity to refine your app, ensuring it’s polished, secure, and ready to impress both Apple and your users. 

Take the time to align your app with Apple's strict standards, and your app’s approval will be a well-earned reward.