Shocked by Apple Developer Program Experience – Account Banned Without Explanation

Question

Created Jan ’25

Replies 3

Boosts 1

Participants 4

I am absolutely shocked and frustrated by the way the Apple Developer Program operates. My team and I recently attempted to launch two completely unique applications through the platform: Goal Hero and Redsport App. Both apps were thoroughly reviewed by our team lead during a code review to ensure they met all the required standards.

However, despite all our efforts, Apple repeatedly rejected our submissions without providing clear, actionable feedback. After multiple attempts to communicate and understand the issues, Apple has now banned our developer account entirely and hasn’t responded to any of my inquiries for over a month.

We are a legitimate game development studio working under the name Betonred. We’ve always adhered to ethical practices and were excited to expand our business on the App Store after years of success on Google Play. This experience has left us questioning Apple’s commitment to supporting developers, especially smaller teams trying to grow.

Honestly, at this point, I am considering restructuring our entire business model to return to focusing solely on Google Play. Apple’s lack of transparency, poor communication, and seemingly arbitrary decisions have made it nearly impossible to work effectively within this ecosystem.

Has anyone else faced similar issues? What’s the best course of action here? Apple’s system feels completely broken.

Answered by yogee_84 in 820733022

Yes, better communication would have saved some time in my case also - my application was rejected multiple time and once the issue was corrected, my application was approved. I haven't heard people getting banned due to multiple rejections.

Boost

Answer 1

darkpaw OP

Jan ’25

Whilst the Review Team may not always provide "actionable feedback", I doubt they're out to stop apps being released the App Store. That wouldn't make any sense.

More likely is that there is a real reason why your apps were rejected, and perhaps, in your frustration, you got a little heated and had a go at them? That's probably why you were banned?

What reasons did they actually provide for the rejections? You can copy & paste them here if you like.

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Answer 2

Claude31 OP

Jan ’25

It's a fact that the rules on Appstore are much more strict than on other platforms, specially for money games like casino. One may appreciate or not, but that's it.

So, expecting to "replicate" what was done on other platform when submitting to Appstore is not the best approach.

In addition, as darkpaw explained, it is really important to discuss with reviewer in good faith, transparency and of course respectful way (as reviewers always do) even to explain why you think their decision was wrong. Doing differently may lead to unexpected consequences.

BTW, if your account was banned, you will ne be able to publish on Appstore. But you may try to appeal this ban (need to have convincing arguments).

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Answer 3

yogee_84 OP

Jan ’25

Accepted Answer

Yes, better communication would have saved some time in my case also - my application was rejected multiple time and once the issue was corrected, my application was approved. I haven't heard people getting banned due to multiple rejections.

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