Everything you need to know about iOS app screenshot sizes and guidelines

There are so many different applications that it can be difficult for users to know where to look for new software. With so many apps, it's becoming increasingly difficult for users to find the content they're looking for. That's why it's important for every app developer to know how to handle the screenshot size in the app store so that their apps get approved faster. In this post...

In this blog post, we will explain what makes up a good screenshot and how you can improve the quality of your screenshot while reducing the size of your screenshot! Keep reading if you want to learn more!

What does a good screenshot contain?

Let's start with a basic definition of what a screenshot is. Basically, screenshots are images that you can use to convey the idea of your app to people. You can also use screenshots as a way to show features or functionality of your app in the Apple App Store. However, it's important to remember that screenshots are just images. You may think that a screenshot will better show what you are trying to show, but that is simply not the case.

When you submit your app to the App Store, you'll need to provide screenshots of the appropriate app store screenshot size, at least for Apple's review process. Apple is curious about the apps in its store, and screenshots are one way it can help itself understand what is available to users. Screenshots also act as a marketing tool for your app, so you want to make sure they are as effective as possible. Here are some tips to keep in mind when creating screenshots for your iOS app.

Related: Shopify's complete guide to image sizing

Guide to the correct screenshot size for each device

When it comes to app screenshots, it is important to understand the correct screenshot size for each device. The app store screenshot size is a very important aspect of the process and should be considered accordingly.

Depending on the iOS device you are developing the app for, the app store screenshot size will vary. Here's a more comprehensive guide to help you understand the correct sizes for the right device.

App Store screenshot size for iPhones

iPhone screen size	Screenshot size (reverse for landscape)	Devices
6.5 inches	1242 x 2688 pixels	iPhone 13 Pro Max, iPhone 12 Pro Max, iPhone 11 Pro Max, iPhone 11, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR
5.8 inches	1125 x 2436 pixels	iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone XS, iPhone X
5.5 inches	1242 x 2208 pixels	iPhone 8 Plus, iPhone 7 Plus, iPhone 6s Plus
4.7 inches	750 x 1334 pixels	iPhone SE (3rd generation, 2nd generation), iPhone 8, iPhone 7, iPhone 6s, iPhone 6
4 inches	640 x 1136 pixels	iPhone SE (1st generation)
3.5 inches	640 x 960 pixels	iPhone 4S

App Store screenshot size for iPads

iPad screen size	Screenshot size (reverse for landscape)	Devices
12.9 inches	2048 x 2732 pixels	iPad Pro (4th generation, 3rd generation, iPad Pro (2nd generation)
11 inches	1448 x 2266 pixels 1668 x 2238 pixels 1640 x 2360 pixels	iPad Pro, iPad Air (5th generation, 4th generation), iPad mini (6th generation
10.5 inches	1668 x 2224 pixels	iPad (9th generation, 8th generation, 7th generation), iPad Pro, iPad Air
9.7 inches	1536 x 2048 pixels	iPad, iPad mini

App Store screenshot size for other Apple devices

Device name	Screenshot size
Apple Watch	312 x 390 pixels (3 series) 368 x 448 pixels (4, 5, 6 and SE series)
Apple TV	1920 x 1080 pixels 3840 x 2160 pixels
Powderpuff	1280 x 800 pixels 1440 x 900 pixels 2560 x 1600 pixels 2880 x 1800 pixels

Include a description with each iOS app you submit

If you don't include a description with your app submission, you're missing an opportunity to help users understand what your app is all about. Even if you've done your marketing well, users don't always remember the details of your app.

Having a description that can be copied and pasted into a review can help users understand what your app is all about. If you've done your marketing right, you'll have some users who will add a link to your review that adds a little more detail.

Quality over quantity is the key

Although screenshots from the app store are just images, you want to make sure they are of high quality. Interfaces between your app and the operating system or between other apps should look natural and as if they belong together. If the screenshots you're using look unnatural or as if they came from Instagram rather than the App Store, you're likely to get the response "The app does not meet our quality guidelines."

When creating screenshots for your iOS app, remember that you will be using them to describe your app to users. You don't want to use screenshots that don't help those people understand what your app is about.

Related: Everything you need to know about LinkedIn sizing for images and posts

Avoid outdated and refreshed apps

Remember that users will judge your app based on the screenshots you show them. It is important to create screenshots that accurately represent your app. If your app has been in the app store for a while and you have been updating it, share updated screenshots.

It's also a good idea to avoid using screenshots for apps that have been recently released or updated. It is better to provide screenshots from an older version of the app, as they will be more effective in showing what your app is all about.

Decorate your screenshots with a free design tool - made for everyone

We hope this article has given you insight into creating high-quality, effective screenshots. An app is a representation of your business, and screenshots in the app store are a representation of the app. It's your job to make sure you deliver the best-looking screenshots that are an instant attraction to interested parties.

Simplified's amazing platform offers amazing design tools to help you not only create amazing screenshots for your iOS app with the ideal screenshot size in mind for the app store, but also gives you virtually unlimited design possibilities.

What's more, you can fulfill most of your design and writing requirements, all in one place, with Simplified's highly effective, AI-based tools. Whether it's writing long and short content in minutes, generating amazing AI graphics, or even scheduling social media posts. Simplified keeps you protected in every way!