New App Review Guidelines: What Developers Need to Know

Category: Product Updates

Author: Marcus Johnson

Publication Date: December 10, 2025

Reading Time: 4 min read

Summary

We've refined our app review process to maintain the highest quality standards. Here's everything developers need to know about our updated guidelines and faster approval times.

Why We Updated Our Guidelines

As GetFree has grown, we've seen an increase in submissions. While most apps are fantastic, we needed clearer guidelines to:

• Maintain quality standards
• Speed up the review process
• Provide better feedback to developers
• Protect our community from low-quality apps

What's Changed

Faster Review Times

Before: 3-5 business days

Now: 24-48 hours for most submissions

How did we achieve this? We've:

• Expanded our review team
• Implemented automated initial checks
• Created clearer acceptance criteria

Clearer Requirements

We now have explicit requirements for:

#### App Quality

• Must function as described
• No critical bugs or crashes
• Responsive design required
• Accessible to all users

#### Screenshots & Media

• Minimum 3 screenshots required
• Must accurately represent the app
• No misleading imagery
• Video demos encouraged

#### Descriptions

• Clear explanation of what the app does
• Honest feature claims
• Proper grammar and spelling
• No excessive promotional language

Promo Code Rules

New clarity around codes:

• Codes must provide real value
• No expired or invalid codes
• Clear terms and conditions
• Appropriate quantity limits

The Review Process

Here's what happens after you submit:

Step 1: Automated Check (Instant)

Our system verifies:

• All required fields completed
• Screenshots uploaded
• Valid website URL
• No duplicate submissions

Step 2: Human Review (24-48 hours)

Our team checks:

• App functionality
• Description accuracy
• Screenshot quality
• Code validity

Step 3: Decision

You'll receive one of three outcomes:

• Approved - Your app is live!
• Minor revisions - Small fixes needed
• Rejected - With detailed feedback

Tips for Fast Approval

Based on our data, apps that get approved fastest have:

• Complete profiles - Every field filled out
• Quality screenshots - Professional, accurate images
• Working codes - Tested before submission
• Clear descriptions - Honest, well-written copy
• Responsive support - Quick replies to our questions

Common Rejection Reasons

Avoid these pitfalls:

| Issue | Solution |

|-------|----------|

| Broken promo codes | Test codes before submitting |

| Misleading screenshots | Use actual app screenshots |

| Incomplete description | Clearly explain all features |

| Non-functional app | Thorough QA before submission |

| Duplicate submission | Check if app already exists |

Appeals Process

If your app is rejected and you disagree:

• Review the feedback carefully
• Make necessary changes
• Reply to the rejection email with updates
• A senior reviewer will re-evaluate

Questions?

We're here to help you succeed:

• Developer Documentation
• Community Forum
• Email Support

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Originally published on GetFree.APP Blog