Live app flagged under Guideline 4.3 - Design - Spam without any update – need clarification before deadline

App Store Distribution & Marketing App Review
eray_izmir OP
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@AppReview

One of our live apps was flagged following a re-evaluation. We had not submitted any update. The message we received:

Guideline 4.3 - Design - Spam

We noticed the app provides the same feature set and experience as other apps already available from you and associated developer account(s) on the App Store.

Submitting similar or repackaged apps is a form of spam that creates clutter and makes it difficult for users to discover new apps.

We were asked to submit a compliant update by November 21, 2026, otherwise the app will be removed from sale.

We have reviewed all apps under our developer account and could not identify any app with the same core functionality.

We have already replied in App Store Connect with a detailed explanation and a screen recording of the app, and we are currently awaiting a response. As the November 21, 2026 deadline is approaching, we kindly ask that our explanation and screen recording be reviewed before the removal date.

Could you also please let us know which apps were identified as similar, so we can address the issue in time?

Thank you.

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isi1314 OP

A few things that have helped others in this exact spot:

  1. "Associated developer accounts" isn't only your own accounts. Apple links accounts that share code, templates, a contractor, payment details or contact info. If any part of the app came from a template, a purchased codebase or an agency that reuses code, that's usually the match.
  2. Don't rely on the explanation alone. Before Nov 21, submit an update that visibly differs: first screen, core flow, icon, screenshots and description. In the review notes, list concretely what's unique compared with similar apps.
  3. In parallel, file an appeal with the App Review Board (developer.apple.com/contact/app-store/?topic=appeal) and ask them to name the apps they consider similar. That's the only channel that tends to answer that question.
  4. Keep the reply in App Store Connect too. An update plus an appeal is much safer than waiting for a reply before the deadline.