App Store guideline 4.2: Minimum Functionality
Apps must offer features, content and interface elements that go beyond a repackaged website. Unofficial explanation, not affiliated with Apple. Apple's text prevails.
- Guideline
- 4.2 Minimum Functionality
- Section
- 4. Design
- This page
- Unofficial explanation, not affiliated with Apple. Apple's text prevails.
- Version
- Guidelines last updated October 16, 2026
- Official source
- Apple's App Review Guidelines
What it means
- An app that is not particularly useful, unique or app-like does not belong on the App Store.
- An app that has no lasting entertainment value or adequate utility may not be accepted.
- Apps that are simply a song or a movie are to be submitted to the iTunes Store, and apps that are simply a book or a game guide to the Apple Books Store.
Related guidelines
Apple's text
This page is an unofficial explanation in our own words. Unofficial explanation, not affiliated with Apple. Apple's text prevails. Apple's wording is on its page, linked below.
Want the guidelines grouped by app type?
If we publish the guidelines grouped by what you are building (subscriptions, kids apps, sign-in), we write to you once. We use the email for nothing else.