Short answer
Make the core features work after a fresh install with no other app present. Move anything that needs a companion app behind an optional step. If the app downloads models, levels or media on first launch, show the size and a button to start it. Then resubmit and explain the change in App Review notes.
Rather not fix it yourself? App Fix Ticket starts with a fixed-price diagnosis, then a fixed price for the fix before any fix work.
What triggers 4.2.3, and the fix
01
Sign-in or setup needs another app
“Your app should work on its own without requiring installation of another app to function.” Apple, Guideline 4.2.3(i)
An app that opens a companion app, an authenticator or a hardware vendor’s app before it does anything fails a reviewer who doesn’t have it. Offer a path that works inside your app, such as email sign-in or a web flow.
02
The app downloads files on first launch without asking
“If your app needs to download additional resources in order to function on initial launch, disclose the size of the download and prompt users before doing so.” Apple, Guideline 4.2.3(ii)
Games, offline maps and apps that run AI models on the phone often fetch hundreds of megabytes at first start. Show the size and let the user tap to start, and keep a working screen while it downloads.
03
The download starts on mobile data with no notice
Also check: a silent download on a cellular connection is what the reviewer notices first. Ask before starting, and let the user wait for Wi-Fi.
04
The review notes don’t explain the setup
If the app pairs with hardware or a partner service, say so in App Review notes. Provide a demo account or a built-in demo mode, plus any hardware or resources the reviewer needs, or a screen recording of those features.
Checked against the vendor’s docs on : App Store Review Guidelines: 4.2 Minimum Functionality; Apple: App Review (replying and appeals).
Rather hand it over?
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Resubmit before Apple’s holiday slowdown
Pay for the Diagnosis and send the rejection and access to the app by (US Eastern). The Diagnosis is back by . Pay for the Fix that day and it arrives as a pull request by , in time to build and resubmit before .
In past years Apple said reviews may take longer around the holidays: December 20 to 26 in 2024 (opens in a new tab), December 22 to 27 in 2023 (opens in a new tab), December 23 to 27 in 2022 (opens in a new tab). Apple hasn’t posted its 2026 dates yet (checked ). Approval stays Apple’s decision.
“Very responsive, attentive to fixing bugs, and completed the project as needed! Thank you!”
Related: App Store Guideline 4.2 (minimum functionality) · App Store Guideline 2.1 (app completeness) · App Store Guideline 2.5.2 (executable code) · App Store Guideline 2.5.4