Hello fellow developers,
I've recently submitted my app, "Mosawirin," to the Apple Store, and unfortunately, it was rejected due to Guideline 4.2 - Design - Minimum Functionality. I'm seeking advice or suggestions on how to address this issue effectively. Below, I'll provide an overview of my app's concept, its new features, and the improvements I've made.
App Concept:
Mosawirin is a platform that connects users with professional photographers, models, makeup artists, hairstylists, and other service providers across Saudi Arabia. Service providers can register and offer their services, while users can browse, filter, and book services directly through the app. Users can also communicate with the service providers for detailed arrangements.
New Features and Improvements:
I made several enhancements to ensure a richer user experience and better overall functionality:
- In-app Messaging: A built-in chat feature for seamless communication between users and service providers.
- Comments and Ratings: Users can now leave comments and rate packages to help others choose the best services.
- Notifications: Real-time custom notifications regarding new offers, booking updates, and chat messages.
- Direct Booking: Streamlined booking feature for users to reserve service providers directly within the app. The booking button, named "Contact" in the app, allows users to select the appropriate event time to facilitate communication with the service provider. After pressing the button, users are presented with four options:
- Call
- In-app Chat
- Redirect to WhatsApp
- Send Booking Request to Photographer
- Direct Contact via WhatsApp: Users can connect with service providers not only through the app's chat but also via WhatsApp.
- Service Provider Listings: Categorized lists of service providers such as photographers, makeup artists, and models.
- Detailed Profiles for Providers: Service providers have profiles showcasing their packages, offers, and reviews.
- Service Filtering and Categorization: Users can filter services based on city, gender, and category, improving ease of use.
- Like Feature: Users can mark their favorite packages to revisit and book later.
- Report Feature: Users can report inappropriate content or comments to maintain a clean and safe environment.
- Ad Display Date and View Count: Each advertisement now includes the display date and the number of views, giving users insight into the popularity and currency of each service.
- Demo Content for Apple Review: The app currently includes demo content for review purposes. When accessing any category, there are a number of sample entries available until the app is officially launched. The app relies significantly on service providers to upload real content after the official release.
Account Management Features for Service Providers:
Service providers, such as photographers, have full account management capabilities. They can:
- Modify or delete their packages.
- Track and manage orders.
- Directly communicate with clients.
- Delete their accounts if needed.
Service Provider Finder:
Users can post advertisements searching for specific service providers, like photographers or makeup artists, to suit their event needs.
Product Details Example:
Each product (or service package) includes the following details:
- Image: Displaying the service provider's offering (e.g., an event photo sample).
- Title: Name of the package (e.g., "Event Photography Package").
- Description: Details about the package, including duration and scope (e.g., "Full event coverage with 200 edited photos").
- Price: Clear pricing (e.g., "1000 SAR per event").
- City and Service Time: Where and when the service is available.
- Booking Button: A button for easy booking.
- Ad Display Date and View Count: Information on when the ad was displayed and how many times it has been viewed.
Possible Limitations of the App:
I acknowledge that there are some limitations in the current version of Mosawirin:
- Single Language Support: The app is currently available only in Arabic, as it is specifically targeted towards Arabic speakers within Saudi Arabia. This might limit its appeal to non-Arabic speaking users.
- No Light/Dark Mode Option: The app does not yet support a light or dark mode feature, which may impact the user experience for those who prefer specific visual themes.
- No Location Request Feature: The app does not ask users to share their location through a map, as I believe users can manually input their location or use filters to find relevant service providers. However, I am open to adding this feature if it would improve the app's usability and meet Apple's expectations.
Apple Rejection Details and Current Challenges:
The rejection mentioned that the app lacks sufficient functionality (Guideline 4.2). However, I believe that the features implemented are extensive and provide a full experience for the user. I would greatly appreciate it if someone could help me understand what might be missing or how to enhance the app further to meet Apple's expectations.
Thank you in advance for your help and insights!
