So, you’ve finally done it! Your company’s app had its final production build approved, all tests have been passed, and you’re ready to launch to the app store. You’re ready to see those download numbers skyrocket, with the knowledge that you’ve brought your app all the way from the MVP to the final product fresh on your mind. But wait! Have you prepared your app for App Store Optimization?
You may think the work stops after launch, but alas, it’s only beginning. Now, it’s time for your app to get the recognition it deserves, and for it to get to the front page of the app store. Whether Android or iOS, the way you list your app on the app store matters – let’s find out why.
Preceding pressing the OK button and sending your company’s app – an app you’ve built from an idea, an app you’ve been working on for months, an app you want to see succeed – to the ether of around 2 million other apps, there are some things you may want to consider, the conglomerate of these things being known as App Store Optimization(ASO)!
Now, from the app’s name to the reviews it gets, it may seem like everything may make a difference in the app store. In a sense, that isn’t wrong in the slightest. However, if you look at Apple’s app store and the Google Play Store, there are many specific, small nuances between the two that have a main overarching theme, a theme we see in the Search Engine Optimization(SEO) world as well: your words matter.
When working with your website and enacting your SEO strategy, you know that titles and keywords in copy make all the difference in your success as a company, but where do we enact them in this respect? Look at other apps in the App/Google Play Store, and you’ll see some strong points you may want to consider.
-
- A strong title → an interesting title, whether it be something shorter or longer, can catch the audience’s attention and get that first tap or click on your app – the first interaction that could change their life(or yours, too).
- A clear description → now that you’ve got your audience interested in your product, it’s important that you think about what makes your product unique and highlight that here. What kind of impression do you want to make, and for who? Think about your audience, what they’re interested in or what problems your app helps them solve, and craft a tactful description to give them a peace of mind that your app is going to help solve their problems.
- Images, graphics, and insights → this is your chance to provide your audience with a small peak into what your app can provide visually. Consider adding some of the most graphic, important experiences that your service provides. This allows the user to see potential use cases and envision themselves using the app, rather than just reading about it.
There may be other smaller nuances between Apple and Android, but it’s important to realize that the points listed above can and should be applied to either platform. Think about your audience, your user base, and frame the words, images, and graphics you use to enrich their lives and win their hearts, and help them to realize how much better their life is going to be with your app on their phones. This is your chance. Whether you’re bringing new life to an old description of your app in the app store, or launching for the first time, ensuring your app is optimized preceding your launch or relaunch is going to place you miles ahead of your competitors.
