How can you ensure your mobile applications are approved and published in a timely manner?

Manual testing may involve different groups of people. First, developers test the app while working on new features. Next is the 'dogfooding' stage when other employees within the company undertake internal testing to identify as many pre-release bugs as possible. Finally, for companies that can afford it, there's testing performed by a QA engineer. If you think the latter is unnecessary and expensive, think twice, as these individuals are professionally trained to find bugs. In automated testing, prioritize creating concise end-to-end smoke tests to ensure core feature stability with each release. Larger apps seeking scalability can benefit from unit tests, which demand extra development time but can be optimized using modern AI tools.

Ensure you have app assets for every platform, including at least the default screen sizes. Create your asset designs in an easily changeable manner, as the screens may change with future updates. Bonus tip: app assets can be an essential (and cost-free) marketing tool. In addition to using screenshots, consider including text and other elements to make your app more appealing and interesting. Also, don't forget to upload a video preview. You can easily record one using your phone, and it may benefit your app's ranking in the store by drawing more attention.

Pro tip for iOS developers: remember that Apple offers an Expedited Review process. It's like a fast pass for getting your app or updates approved more quickly, which can be crucial for urgent fixes or time-sensitive releases. Don't hesitate to use it when your app's situation calls for it. Just keep in mind that it's not always granted, so make a compelling case when requesting it.

Engage in Pre-Submission Consultation Some app stores, like Apple's App Store, offer pre-submission consultation services. These services allow developers to seek guidance from the platform's experts before submitting their app. Engaging in pre-submission consultation can be highly beneficial in understanding the platform's guidelines and addressing potential issues in your app. It provides an opportunity to receive feedback and guidance on how to meet the store's requirements. Utilizing this service can increase your app's chances of approval on the first submission, saving time in the review process.