App Store "between the years": What devs need to prepare for

The days of Apple closing its App Store during the festive season are over. Nevertheless, the iPhone manufacturer is preparing app developers for longer waiting times during the app review to be on the safe side. New apps and updates may therefore be released with a delay.

This affects the period from December 20 to 26, Apple writes on its developer portal. The reason given is that a higher volume of submissions is expected. Staff shortages or vacation time in App Review do not play a role, at least according to Apple. However, it can be assumed that Apple's entire App Review team will not be at the start either.

It's best to submit now

Apple recommends that developers update their apps and games as quickly as possible and submit them for review so that the new versions can be available in the App Store in time for the festive season. Christmas is traditionally also the peak season for downloads, as there will no doubt be many an Apple device under the Christmas tree that will be filled with apps and games as soon as it is unwrapped. In addition, many people have time and leisure to try out new apps and games over the festive period. As a result, developers are naturally also interested in capturing these potential sales.

Apparently, however, many developers also submit updates to – over Christmas, either because they want to iron out bugs or because it is a leisure project, for example, and there is finally time to code.

Closing times are history

From a developer's point of view, it is definitely pleasing that Apple is no longer closing its doors completely. For years, developers had to take precautions and could not submit anything or make certain changes for several days around Christmas. The Christmas break has been suspended since 2021. Apple has apparently finally abandoned this practice.

(mki)