How to Create App Store Screenshots
App Store screenshots are the single most important factor in whether someone downloads your app. 70% of users scan screenshots before deciding. This guide covers everything: required dimensions, design best practices, and how to go from raw screenshot to submission-ready asset in under 5 minutes.
Try Screenza freeStep-by-step guide
- 1
Take screenshots from your iOS simulator or device
Use Xcode's simulator (Cmd+S) or a physical iPhone. Capture your most compelling screens — not the login page, but the core value screen that makes someone think 'I need this'.
- 2
Choose your required sizes
Apple requires at minimum 6.7" (1290×2796) and 6.5" (1242×2688) screenshots. If you support iPad, add 12.9" (2048×2732). Screenza exports all of these automatically.
- 3
Wrap in a device frame
Open Screenza, drop your screenshot in, and pick iPhone 17 Pro Max or iPhone 14. The frame renders instantly at the correct aspect ratio.
- 4
Add a background
Pick from 30+ gradients or solid colors. Avoid using the same color as your app's UI — contrast makes the device pop.
- 5
Add a caption headline
The best App Store screenshots have a short, benefit-led headline ("Track calories in seconds", not "Features"). Add it as a text layer over your mockup.
- 6
Export and upload to App Store Connect
Click export. Upload the PNG directly to App Store Connect under your app's Screenshots section. No resizing needed.
Pro tips
- The first screenshot appears in search results — make it your absolute best
- Use the same background color across all 5 screenshots for visual consistency
- Show what the user achieves with your app, not just the UI
- Landscape screenshots show larger in search — consider a landscape option if your app supports it
- A/B test different screenshot sets using App Store Connect's Product Page Optimization
FAQ
How many App Store screenshots do I need?
Apple allows up to 10 screenshots per device size and requires at least 1. Best practice is 5 screenshots — Apple's own apps typically use 5.
Does every app need iPad screenshots?
Only if your app supports iPad. Universal apps that work on both iPhone and iPad must include both sets.
What file format do App Store screenshots need to be?
JPG or PNG with no alpha channel. Screenza exports clean PNGs that are accepted without modification.
Can I add captions and text to App Store screenshots?
Yes — and you should. Screenshots with marketing text consistently outperform plain UI screenshots. Screenza has a built-in text layer tool.