Guideline 2.3.7
Guideline 2.3.7 - Accurate Metadata: Keyword Stuffing in Description or Metadata
Our Take
Apple is rejecting your app because the description, subtitle, or metadata contains keyword stuffing -- repetitive or irrelevant terms inserted primarily to game App Store search rankings. This includes listing competitor app names, repeating the same keywords in different variations, or adding long lists of loosely related terms. Apple's detection of keyword stuffing has become increasingly sophisticated. They flag: (1) competitor names mentioned in your description (e.g., 'alternative to Instagram'), (2) lists of keywords separated by commas or pipes in the description, (3) repeating the same concept in multiple forms ('photo editor, photo editing, edit photos, picture editor'), and (4) including category names or generic terms that don't specifically describe your app. This rejection sometimes also covers including prices in the app name or metadata (e.g., 'Only $0.99!' in the description), which Apple considers a form of manipulative metadata.
Resolution Guide
Remove competitor references
Delete any mention of other apps or services, even in comparative contexts like 'better than X' or 'alternative to Y.'
Remove keyword lists
If your description has a block of comma-separated keywords, remove it entirely. Your description should read as natural prose.
Remove pricing language
Remove words like 'free', 'cheap', '$0.99', 'no subscription', 'no ads' from the name, subtitle, and description.
Rewrite the description as natural text
Describe what your app does in clear, conversational sentences. If it reads like a search engine listing, rewrite it.
Use the keyword field properly
Move legitimate search terms to the 100-character keyword field. Separate with commas, no spaces. Don't repeat words already in your name or subtitle (Apple indexes those automatically).
Prevention
Example Rejection Email
Before & After
Description ends with: 'Best alternative to Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok. Photo editor, photo filter, photo collage, picture editor, pic editor, selfie editor, beauty camera, face tune, face filter. FREE DOWNLOAD!'
Description: 'Create stunning photos with 50+ professional filters and an intuitive editing suite. Adjust exposure, contrast, and color with precision controls, then share directly to your social accounts.'
What changed: Natural prose that describes what the app does will always pass review. Keyword lists never will.
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