Artificial Intelligence1 min read

AI is turning Apple's app review process into a nightmare for synth developers

By · Published by Everything Blog

In short

The sudden volume of software generated with artificial intelligence has paralyzed Apple's evaluation pipeline, stranding AUv3 plugins and instruments in review queues for weeks. Affected creators, including AudioThing and Sugar Bytes, are experiencing interrupted launch schedules and mistaken technical objections from apparent automated screeners. For example, Unfiltered Audio endured a month-long dispute involving four rejections over misunderstood audio terms and non-existent hardware requirements before being forced into an audio-only release.

Key points

  • Surge of AI-generated music software submissions has compromised Apple's standard 48-hour…: Surge of AI-generated music software submissions has compromised Apple's standard 48-hour App Store review window.
  • Inconsistent and suspected automated evaluations are burdening established developers wit…: Inconsistent and suspected automated evaluations are burdening established developers with unwarranted technical documentation demands.
  • Launch scheduling across different formats has become unpredictable for professional soft…: Launch scheduling across different formats has become unpredictable for professional software developers targeting the iOS platform.

Sources checked by our analysis pipeline: 1

The surge of AI-generated apps is overwhelming Apple’s app review process, leaving developers caught in the crossfire – two examples among many.

A flood of new iOS apps has emerged over the last few months. An estimated 10–20 new iOS music apps enter the market every day. This is because AI now makes it possible for anyone to vibe code their own apps and AUv3 plugins.

However, getting an app into the Apple App Store requires going through the app review process. AI has affected not only the number of new releases per day but also Apple’s holy app review process, creating more nightmares than joy for many developers.

What Is The Apple App Review Process?

Developing and releasing a VST plugin is simple. You set up a website, upload your installers, set a price, and you’re good to go. It’s more complicated on iOS.

To publish an app, you must first join the Apple Developer Program, which costs $99 per year. As a member, you can submit apps with AUv3 support, but they won’t become available immediately.

Whether they…

Artificial Intelligence