App Store Reject

Guideline 5.1.1

Guideline 5.1.1 - Privacy: Background Location Without Proper Configuration

Low RiskEasy0 Reports

Our Take

Your app declares background location capability but is missing required configuration. Apple scrutinizes background location heavily — apps must demonstrate clear user-facing value and have all required purpose strings.

Resolution Guide

01

**Verify you need background location** — Background location is only appropriate for navigation, fitness tracking, ride-sharing, or similar apps where continuous location is the core feature. If your app only needs location while in the foreground, remove `location` from `UIBackgroundModes` and use `requestWhenInUseAuthorization` only.


02

**Add all required purpose strings** — You need BOTH of these in Info.plist:

  • `NSLocationWhenInUseUsageDescription` — explain why you need location while the app is visible

    • - `NSLocationAlwaysAndWhenInUseUsageDescription` — explain why you need location in the background. Be specific: "Chain tracks your ride route in the background so you can see your complete path and distance even when your phone is locked."

    03

    **Implement proper location authorization flow** — Request `requestWhenInUseAuthorization` first. Only escalate to `requestAlwaysAuthorization` when the user triggers a feature that needs it. Never request Always on first launch.


    04

    **Enable background location updates in code** — Set `locationManager.allowsBackgroundLocationUpdates = true` and `locationManager.showsBackgroundLocationIndicator = true` (shows the blue bar).


    05

    **Prepare your review notes** — In App Store Connect → App Review Information, explain exactly why your app needs background location. Example: "Our app tracks cycling rides. Background location is required so the route is recorded accurately when the screen is locked during a ride."

    Prevention:

  • Start with WhenInUse authorization and only add Always when the feature demands it
  • Always include review notes explaining background location usage
  • Test that the blue location indicator appears during background tracking

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