Xcode App Packaging and Upload to App Store: Complete Operation Guide

This article provides a detailed breakdown of every step for packaging and uploading iOS applications to the App Store using Xcode, suitable for developers’ practical reference.

1. Preparation

1.1 Check Project

• Open your project in Xcode and ensure all features work properly and run correctly on real devices.

1.2 Update Version and Build Numbers

• Select project root → Select Target → “General” → Modify Version (version number) and Build (build number).

1.3 Configure Certificates and Provisioning Profiles

• Log in to Apple Developer and App Store Connect.
• Ensure you have valid “Distribution Certificate” and “Provisioning Profile”.
• In Xcode → Preferences → Accounts, add your Apple ID and download/sync certificates.

1.4 Create App Entry

• In App Store Connect “My Apps”, click “+” to create new App, fill in name, Bundle ID, platform, and other information.

2. Select Release Mode and Target Device

• In Xcode’s top toolbar, select device as “Any iOS Device (arm64)” or “Generic iOS Device”.
• Scheme defaults to Release, no manual switching needed.

3. Archive Project

• Click Product → Archive in the menu bar.
• Wait for Xcode to compile and generate the archive package.
• After build completion, Xcode will automatically open the Organizer window. If not, manually open: Window → Organizer → Archives.

4. Validation and Upload

4.1 Select Archive

• In the Organizer’s Archives list, select the latest archive.

4.2 Distribute App

• Click the “Distribute App” button on the right.

4.3 Choose Upload Method

• Select “App Store Connect” → “Upload” → “Next”.

4.4 Select Certificate and Provisioning Profile

• Follow prompts to select the correct signing certificate and provisioning profile.

4.5 Validate App (Optional)

• Optionally choose “Validate App” to locally validate and check for package errors.

4.6 Upload App

• After validation passes, click “Upload”.
• Wait for upload completion; “Upload Successful” indicates successful upload.

5. App Store Connect Backend Operations

5.1 Fill Version Information

• Log in to App Store Connect, go to “My Apps”.
• Select the uploaded version and fill in version number, update notes, privacy policy, etc.

5.2 Upload Screenshots and Metadata

• Upload screenshots for different devices (iPhone, iPad) as required.
• Fill in App description, keywords, supported languages, and other information.

5.3 Submit for Review

• After checking all information is correct, click “Submit for Review”.
• Wait for Apple’s review approval, then the App can go live.

6. Common Issues and Suggestions

• Archive Failed: Check Build Settings, certificates, and dependency libraries.
• Upload Failed: Check network, Apple ID permissions, and Xcode version.
• Review Rejected: Modify App according to Apple’s feedback and resubmit.

Summary

Each step requires careful operation to ensure accuracy.
If you encounter specific errors or special situations, it’s recommended to record error information and consult official documentation or community help.

If you need screenshots for any step or encounter special problems, feel free to leave a comment for discussion!