By Justin Schuback on June 26, 2023
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After putting in the hard work of developing a React Native application, it’s now time to prepare for one of the most exciting phases: testing and deployment. For iOS applications, this process involves using a platform called TestFlight, part of the suite of tools provided by Apple for developers, and finally, submitting your app to the App Store. Let’s walk through this process step-by-step.
Why TestFlight?
TestFlight is a free tool provided by Apple that allows developers to test their apps before they’re released on the App Store. It provides an environment for testing new features and for gaining user feedback. You can invite up to 10,000 testers using their email addresses or a public link.
Preparing Your App for TestFlight
Before you can use TestFlight, there are a few prerequisites:
- Apple Developer Account: You need an enrolled account in the Apple Developer Program. This comes with an annual fee but provides access to resources like TestFlight and app distribution.
- App Store Connect: You need to set up your app in App Store Connect, a suite of web-based tools for managing apps sold on the App Store.
- Xcode: You need to have Xcode installed on your Mac. It’s the only way to upload your app to App Store Connect.
Once you have these requirements in place, you can proceed with the following steps:
Step 1: Archive Your App in Xcode
Open your React Native project in Xcode. Then, archive your app for distribution. This process builds your app and prepares it for distribution in the App Store.
Step 2: Upload Your App to App Store Connect
After archiving your app, upload it to App Store Connect. During this process, you can choose to automatically manage your app signing, or manually if you prefer.
Step 3: Start Testing with TestFlight
Once your app has been successfully uploaded to App Store Connect, it is available for internal testing. You can add internal testers in App Store Connect, who will receive an email with a link to test the app.
Step 4: Beta Testing
After internal testing, you can start beta testing. You can invite external testers by entering their email addresses, or by sharing a public link.
Submitting Your App to the App Store
After you’ve thoroughly tested your app with TestFlight and made necessary adjustments based on feedback, you’re ready to submit your app to the App Store.
- Prepare for Submission: Fill in the app’s metadata, including the app’s name, description, keywords, support URL, and more.
- Pricing and Availability: Set your app’s price (or make it free) and decide on its availability across different regions.
- Review and Submit: Ensure everything is in place. Double-check your app’s metadata, pricing, and details. Then, submit your app for review.
After submission, your app will go through a review process by Apple. If everything is according to the App Store’s guidelines, your app will be published and available to users worldwide.
The journey from development to deployment is thrilling yet challenging. With careful planning and thorough testing, you can ensure a smooth transition from a React Native project on your local machine to a live application on the App Store. Happy coding, and good luck with your launch!
Conclusion
The leap from a local React Native project to a global App Store success is a major achievement. By leveraging TestFlight’s internal and external tracks and adhering to the latest 2026 SDK and privacy guidelines, you can ensure your app is not only “functional” but “Apple-Standard.”
To see why professional Product Ownership is vital for a successful App Store launch: CLICK HERE
FAQ: App Store Deployment 2026
What happens if I don’t update my age ratings? As of January 31, 2026, any app that hasn’t responded to the updated age-rating questions will face submission interruptions. It is vital to review these under the “App Information” section.
How long do TestFlight builds last? Each build is available for 90 days. After that, it expires, and you must upload a new version to continue testing.
Can I submit Custom Product Pages without a new app update? Yes! In 2026, you can submit in-app events and custom product pages for review individually without needing to push a full binary update.
Why was my app rejected for “Guideline 2.1 – Incompleteness”? This usually means your reviewer couldn’t access your features. Ensure your backend services are live, provide working demo credentials, and include explanations for non-obvious features in your Review Notes.
What is the minimum SDK requirement for 2026? Starting April 28, 2026, all iOS apps must be built with the iOS 26 SDK and Xcode 26.
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