Show the app in use
Screenshots should communicate the app's core experience. Apple says they should not consist only of a title screen, login page, or splash screen.
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App Store review
App Store screenshot requirements for 2026
The direct answer: show the real app experience, use an accepted device size, keep every claim current, and make paid features clear. Apple allows accurate text and image overlays.
Apple's screenshot content rules
These points summarize Apple's current App Review and product-page guidance. App Review makes the final decision for each submission.
Keep every claim accurate
The images and copy must match the submitted app and stay current when the product experience changes.
Text overlays are allowed
Apple permits text and image overlays when they remain accurate and do not obscure the underlying app experience.
Disclose paid content
If a feature or content shown requires an additional purchase, say so in the description and make that clear in the screenshot or preview.
Use content you have rights to
Use fictional account information instead of real personal data, and only show protected content you are licensed to display.
Required screenshot dimensions by device
Apple requires screenshots at specific dimensions for each device type your app supports. Submit at least the largest iPhone size if your app is iPhone-only.
| Device | Required size | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone (6.9 inch) | 1260 x 2736, 1290 x 2796, or 1320 x 2868 | Accepted portrait exports for the current largest iPhone display group. |
| iPhone (6.5 inch) | 1242 x 2688 or 1284 x 2778 | Accepted portrait exports for the 6.5-inch display group. |
| iPad (13 inch) | 2064 x 2752 | Portrait export for apps that support the 13-inch iPad display group. |
5 common screenshot rejection reasons
Screenshots do not match app functionality
A screenshot shows a feature that does not exist in the binary you submitted. Solution: take new screenshots from the current build before each submission.
Screenshots contain non-localized text
You uploaded English screenshots to a localized listing but the app supports multiple languages. Solution: prepare language-specific screenshot sets for each supported locale.
The first images do not show the core experience
A title, login, or splash screen uses valuable space without explaining the product. Lead with the app's main workflow and strongest user outcome.
Screenshot content not suitable for all ages
Even if your app has a 17+ rating, screenshot content must pass additional review. Avoid suggestive imagery, realistic violence, or restricted substance imagery in screenshots.
Insufficient screenshot count
Apple requires at least one screenshot per supported device family. Solution: upload at minimum one screenshot for each device type your app runs on.
App Store screenshot requirements FAQ
What are the App Store screenshot requirements?
App Store screenshots must accurately show the app in use, fit an accepted size for the selected device group, and match the current submitted experience. Text and image overlays are allowed when they are accurate and do not obscure the product.
Can App Store screenshots include text overlays?
Yes. Apple's review guideline 2.3.3 permits text and image overlays as long as the screenshots accurately show the app in use and the overlays do not obscure the underlying experience.
How many screenshots does Apple require?
Apple requires at least one screenshot for each device family your app supports. You can upload up to 10 per device type. For a typical iPhone-only indie app, submit at least 3 screenshots for the largest iPhone display group.
What happens if my screenshots get rejected?
Read the exact App Review message, correct the inaccurate or noncompliant metadata, and resubmit through App Store Connect. Review timing varies, so do not plan a launch around an assumed one- or two-day turnaround.
Can I use the same screenshots for App Store and Google Play?
The content can be similar, but the dimensions differ. App Store uses device-specific iPhone and iPad sizes, while Google Play accepts a broader 320–3840 px range. A 1080 x 1920 portrait export is a practical Google Play preset, not the only accepted size.
Do I need to update screenshots for every app update?
Not every update — only when the app's appearance or functionality changes. If a minor bug-fix update does not change the UI, you can keep the same screenshots. Apple does not require fresh screenshots for every binary submission.
Updated September 2026. Sources: App Review Guidelines and Screenshot specifications.