Can I Submit an App to the App Store for Use by Only One Person?

Yes, you can submit an app to the App Store that is designed for use by just one person. However, there are several crucial factors to consider to ensure your app meets Apple's standards and is likely to be accepted.

App Store Guidelines

To ensure your app complies with Apple’s App Store Review Guidelines, it must provide value, be functional, and not violate any specific guidelines. Your app needs to be useful and unique, even if it's intended for a single user. Review the guidelines meticulously to avoid rejection due to a violation of rules.

Purpose and Functionality

Clearly define the purpose of your app and how it provides a unique or useful experience for a single user. Highlight these aspects in your pitch to the App Review team to increase the chances of approval. Provide detailed explanations and demonstrations of the app's functionality to showcase its relevancy and usefulness.

User Experience

A good user interface and experience are crucial for both approval and user satisfaction. Ensure your app is user-friendly and intuitive. Test the app thoroughly to identify and fix any usability issues that might arise. High-quality user reviews and positive user feedback can also support your case.

Privacy and Data Handling

If your app collects personal data, make sure you comply with all privacy regulations and clearly communicate how user data will be handled. Transparency is key in building trust with potential users. Provide a comprehensive privacy policy and ensure that user data is used and stored securely.

Marketing and Visibility

Consider how you will market the app. It may be challenging to attract users if your app is intended for just one person. Develop a solid marketing strategy that highlights the unique value your app offers. Leverage social media, content marketing, and targeted advertising to reach the intended audience.

Another option is to obtain an Apple Enterprise development license. With this license, you can create an Enterprise build that users can install directly on their devices without going through the App Store. This eliminates the need to register individual device IDs, which can be a time-consuming process. It also offers a more efficient distribution method for internal use.

Historical Context and Challenges

I personally experienced the challenges of submitting a wedding app to the App Store in 2013. The app was intended for around 100 people, but Ad-Hoc distribution was limited to 50 devices at that time. Releasing the app with password protection was the only option. However, the app was rejected due to limited functionality. After appealing with detailed explanations, I was informed that the app had to be relevant to a larger audience.

While this approach may be challenging, you can still try submitting the app via TestFlight or Ad-Hoc distribution. These methods allow you to distribute your app to a select group of users initially, which can help you gather feedback and make necessary improvements before a full App Store submission.