To launch a Lovable app you need developer accounts on both stores (Apple $99 a year, Google $25 once), a native build rather than a web link, a privacy policy with privacy labels and a Data safety form, in-app account deletion if people can sign up, a demo login for reviewers and store screenshots. New personal Google Play accounts also need a 14-day closed test with 12 testers.
1. Accounts and fees
| Cost | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Apple Developer Program | $99 a year | Needs an Apple Account with two-factor authentication. Fee waivers exist for eligible nonprofits, educational institutions and government entities |
| Google Play developer account | $25, once | Personal accounts created after November 13, 2023 must run a closed test before launch |
| Your Lovable plan | Your current plan | Keeps your web app and code running |
2. The build
- A native build of your app, not a link to your Lovable site. See your options.
- On Google Play, an Android App Bundle that targets API level 36 or higher (required for new apps and updates from August 31, 2026).
- An app icon and splash screen.
- No web leftovers: cookie banners, website footers or "open in browser" links (Guideline 4.2).
- Tested on a real device for crashes and stability.
3. Privacy and policy
- A public privacy policy URL. Both stores require one.
- Apple's app privacy details, required for new apps and every update.
- Google's Data safety form, required even if you collect no data.
- In-app account deletion, if people can create an account (Guideline 5.1.1(v)).
- A privacy-focused login option such as Sign in with Apple, if you offer Google or another social login (Guideline 4.8).
- Apple's in-app purchase for unlocking digital features or content (Guideline 3.1.1).
4. Review prep
- A demo account for reviewers, with your backend switched on (Guideline 2.1).
- No placeholder text, empty pages or test content.
- Notes for the reviewer explaining anything that isn't obvious.
Already rejected? See how to fix a Guideline 4.2 rejection.
5. Store listing
- iPhone screenshots: at least one for the medium Dynamic Island display (1179 x 2556 portrait), up to 10 per device size. App Store Connect scales them for smaller iPhones.
- Google Play screenshots and a feature graphic.
- App name, description and keywords.
- Content rating answers on both stores.
6. Google Play closed test
- Upload your App Bundle to a closed testing track.
- Invite at least 12 testers and have them opt in.
- Keep at least 12 opted in for 14 days in a row.
- Apply for production access on the Play Console dashboard, then release.
Only personal accounts created after November 13, 2023 need this. More on the 12-tester requirement.
What it costs
The store fees above are fixed. What varies is how you turn the web app into a store app:
- The build itself. A wrapper is quick, while a native conversion takes longer but is easier to get approved.
- A Mac, if you build for iOS yourself, because Xcode runs on macOS. Cloud build services avoid that.
- Phone-only features such as in-app purchase, Sign in with Apple and push notifications, if your app needs them.
- Your time: store assets, privacy forms, review replies and resubmissions.
Here is what LetsDeployIt charges today:
Current plans are on the LetsDeployIt pricing page.
Costs people forget
- Rejections: each one adds a fix and another review.
- Google's 14-day closed test for new personal accounts, which delays launch.
- Keeping up after launch: Google raises the required target API level every year, and both stores keep updating their rules.
How LetsDeployIt helps
We work through this whole list for you: the native build, icons, screenshots, privacy labels, the Data safety form, the account deletion flow, a Guideline 4.2 compliance pass, signing and submission to both stores, with resubmissions until approved. Phone-only features are fixed-price add-ons. See every plan on our pricing page.
Try a free native preview of your app on your phone: letsdeploy.it.
Common questions about launch costs and requirements
Is it free to put an app on the App Store?
No. You need an Apple Developer Program membership, which costs $99 a year. Eligible nonprofits, educational institutions and government entities can request a fee waiver.
How much does Google Play charge?
A one-time US$25 registration fee for a developer account.
How long does it take to launch a Lovable app?
With LetsDeployIt, most apps are live in 3 to 4 weeks. On Google Play, new personal accounts also have to run a 14-day closed test before launch.
Do I need a privacy policy if my app collects no data?
Yes. Apple requires a privacy policy URL for every app, and Google requires one to complete the Data safety form, even when no data is collected.
Do I need to add Sign in with Apple?
If your app lets people sign in with Google or another social login for their main account, Apple's Guideline 4.8 asks you to also offer a privacy-focused option such as Sign in with Apple.
Do I need in-app account deletion?
Yes, if people can create an account in your app. Apple's Guideline 5.1.1(v) requires you to let them delete it from inside the app.
Do I need a Mac?
Not if someone builds the iOS app for you in the cloud. Building it yourself means using Xcode, which runs on macOS.
Are Apple and Google fees included in LetsDeployIt's price?
No. Developer account fees are paid to Apple and Google directly, and your own infrastructure costs are separate.
Sources
- Apple Developer Program
- Apple App Review Guidelines
- Apple: App privacy details
- Apple: Screenshot specifications
- Google Play: developer account fee
- Google Play: testing requirements for new personal accounts
- Google Play: target API level requirements
- Google Play: Data safety section
Originally published on letsdeploy.it. Facts checked 2026-10-12.
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