Understanding the Question

When an interviewer asks you to describe the process of submitting an app to the App Store, they are looking to gauge your familiarity with the various stages involved in getting an iOS app from development to being publicly available on the App Store. This question tests your practical knowledge of the iOS development lifecycle, specifically your experience with preparing, submitting, and managing an app through Apple's review process.

Interviewer's Goals

The interviewer has several goals in mind when asking this question:

1. Technical Proficiency: To assess your technical capability in finalizing an app for submission, including code signing, optimizing performance, and ensuring adherence to Apple's guidelines.
2. Attention to Detail: To evaluate your diligence in following Apple's submission requirements and your ability to manage the various assets needed, such as app icons, screenshots, and metadata.
3. Problem-Solving Skills: To understand how you navigate potential submission issues, including addressing rejection reasons from Apple and implementing necessary fixes.
4. Project Management: To see if you can efficiently manage the submission timeline, coordinate with team members (if applicable), and maintain versioning and updates post-launch.

How to Approach Your Answer

Your response should outline the key steps involved in preparing and submitting an app to the App Store, demonstrating your knowledge and experience with the process. Highlight your understanding of Apple's guidelines, the importance of quality assurance, and how to manage the app's lifecycle post-submission. Reflect on any specific experiences you had that might illustrate your proficiency and problem-solving skills during this process.

Example Responses Relevant to iOS Developer

Here's how you might structure a detailed and comprehensive answer:

"Submitting an app to the App Store is a multi-step process that starts long before you actually upload your app to App Store Connect. Initially, it involves ensuring that the app complies with Apple's App Store Review Guidelines, which cover technical, design, and content criteria.

The first step is to configure your app for release through the Xcode project settings, where you set the version number, build identifier, and make sure that the app uses the correct signing certificate and provisioning profile. It's crucial to test the app thoroughly on devices and simulators to catch any potential issues.

Next, you create a listing for your app in App Store Connect, filling in details like the app's name, description, keywords, and uploading screenshots and a preview video. You also need to decide on pricing and availability.

After the app is configured and the listing is prepared, you upload the app binary from Xcode to App Store Connect using the Archive and Upload to App Store functionality. Once uploaded, you select the build you want to submit for review and finalize the submission by answering export compliance questions and setting the release options—either to release manually after review or automatically.

During the review, Apple might request additional information or reject the app if it doesn't meet guidelines. In my experience, clear communication and prompt responses here are key to resolving any issues.

After approval, the app goes live according to the release option selected. Post-launch, it's essential to monitor user feedback, address any issues, and prepare updates to keep the app relevant and functional."

Tips for Success

• Stay Updated: Apple's guidelines and submission process can change. Stay informed about the latest requirements by regularly reviewing the official documentation and participating in developer forums.
• Quality Assurance: Emphasize the importance of thorough testing on various devices and OS versions to ensure compatibility and a good user experience.
• Detail Your Experience: If you've navigated complex submission scenarios or resolved specific rejection issues, share these experiences to demonstrate your problem-solving capabilities.
• Continuous Learning: Mention any resources or practices you use to keep your skills sharp, such as following iOS development blogs, attending workshops, or participating in developer communities.
• Focus on the User: Highlight how you prioritize user experience and value feedback, showcasing your commitment to not just launching an app but also maintaining and improving it post-launch.

By constructing your answer with these components, you'll not only show that you're technically capable of handling the app submission process but also that you are thoughtful and proactive in ensuring the app's success in the App Store.