Understanding App Store Connect Operation ERROR ITMS-90771

When submitting an app to the App Store, developers might sometimes encounter various error messages, one of which is the notorious ERROR ITMS-90771. This particular error is often associated with issues related to the distribution of app builds to Apple's App Store. It can be perplexing, especially if you're unfamiliar with the intricacies of app deployment.

What is ERROR ITMS-90771?

ERROR ITMS-90771 usually occurs during the app submission process. It typically indicates a problem with the integrity or correctness of the submitted iOS or macOS application bundle. The error itself might be related to incorrect build configurations, incompatible certificates, or metadata issues in your app's package. Understanding the root cause of this error requires diving into how your app bundle is structured and ensuring that all components align with Apple's requirements.

Common Causes of ERROR ITMS-90771

1. Incorrect Code Signing:
   • This is perhaps one of the most common reasons. Ensure that your app is signed correctly using a valid distribution certificate and provisioning profile.
2. Invalid Bundle Identifier:
   • The `CFBundleIdentifier` in your app's `Info.plist` must match the app identifier you have registered in your Apple Developer account.
3. Incompatible Frameworks or Classes:
   • If your app uses third-party frameworks or Objective-C classes that aren't correctly included or are incompatible with the App Store submission guidelines, this error might occur.
4. Inconsistent Info.plist:
   • The information within the `Info.plist` file must be consistent and correctly configured, as this file contains essential metadata about your app.

Steps to Fix ERROR ITMS-90771

Here's a detailed guide on how to address and resolve ERROR ITMS-90771:

1. Verify Code Signing

Ensure your app is using the correct code signing identities:

• Open your Xcode project.
• Go to the "Signing & Capabilities" section.
• Verify that the correct team, certificate, and provisioning profile are selected for the release build.

2. Validate `Info.plist`

Ensure your `Info.plist` contains the correct key-value pairs:

• Confirm that the `CFBundleIdentifier` matches the App ID you registered.
• Ensure all other required keys are correctly set.
• Inspect the "Frameworks" directory in your app bundle. Ensure all included frameworks are supported and correctly integrated.
• Verify deployment target compatibility and remove deprecated frameworks.
• Go to your project's build settings in Xcode and check for any discrepancies in architecture settings (`ARCHS`), build configurations, and deployment targets.
• Use Xcode's built-in validation for your app:
  • Go to Product > Archive. After the archive process, select Distribute App, and choose Validate before submitting.
• Console Logs: If the error occurs during a specific step in the submission process, check the Console logs for more details.
• Apple Developer Forums: Search or post questions on the Apple Developer Forums for community assistance.
• Update Tools: Ensure you are using the latest version of Xcode and have updated all relevant tools and dependencies.