Introduction to App Store Optimization (ASO)
App store optimization (ASO) is the process of improving the visibility and discoverability of mobile applications for potential customers. ASO techniques can be any strategy that improves the visibility of an application both on-page and off-page.
In this digital era of smartphones, the world is split into two: Android and iOS users. The quarrel between these users is immense! The top two leading applications platforms would be the “Google play store” and The “iOS app store”. These two platforms contains millions of free and paid applications.
ASO is simply SEO, the app version. We use SEO to enhance the visibility and engagement of websites. Here, application visibility can be enhanced with optimization strategies for more downloads and visibility.
Why is ASO Important?
According to Bankmycell there are over 3.5+ million apps available in the Google Play Store and 2.06+ million apps available in the Apple App Store and about 799,586 apps available in the Amazon App Store. With so many apps to choose from, it can be difficult for users to find the apps that people are looking for. ASO can help to make your app more visible to users and increase the chances that they will download it.
How ASO Works?
ASO is a complex process that involves a number of different factors, including:
Keywords Research:
Keywords are the foundation of ASO. Users search for apps using keywords, so it’s essential to optimize your app’s metadata (title, subtitle, description, and keyword field) with relevant and high-traffic keywords. Your goal is to make sure that your app appears in the search results for the keywords that users are using. You can use tools like App Store Connect, Sensor Tower, or Mobile Action to find the best keywords for your app.
Optimize The App Title:
Your app’s title is the first thing that users see, and it should be memorable, descriptive, and optimized for keywords. A good title can catch the user’s attention and encourage them to click on your app. Avoid using vague or generic titles, as they won’t help your app stand out. For example, “Angry Birds” is a memorable and descriptive title that tells users what the app is about.
Include Benefits & Related Keywords in The App Description:
Your app’s description should be concise, persuasive, and easy to read. It should highlight your app’s unique features, benefits, and value proposition. You can also use the description to address user pain points or answer common questions. Make sure to include relevant keywords throughout the description, but don’t overstuff them. Keep in mind that the first three lines of your description are the most important, as they are visible without clicking “read more.” For example, the “Headspace” app description highlights its benefits (meditation made simple) and features (guided meditations, sleep sounds, etc.) while addressing user concerns (reduce stress, improve focus, etc.).
Add Best Quality Screenshots and Videos of The App:
Screenshots and videos can showcase your app’s design, features, and user experience. They can also help to convince users to download your app by providing visual proof of its value. Make sure to use high-quality images and videos that accurately represent your app’s functionality and benefits. You can also add captions or call-to-action (CTA) overlays to encourage users to take action. For example, the “Duolingo” app screenshots show the app’s interface, gamification elements, and progress tracking which helps to attract more users and increases app downloads.
Focus on Getting Ratings and Positive User Reviews:
Ratings and reviews are social proof of your app’s quality, and they can influence users’ decisions to download or uninstall your app. Positive ratings and reviews can improve your app’s ranking in the app store search results and increase your app’s credibility. Encourage users to rate and review your app by providing a great user experience, responding to feedback, and using in-app prompts. Make sure to address negative reviews and use them as an opportunity to improve your app’s performance. For example, the “Uber” app has a high rating and thousands of reviews, which show that the app is reliable and convenient.
How to Optimize Your App for the App Store?
If you want to get started with ASO, there are a few things that you can do:
- Research your keywords: The first step is to research the keywords that you want to target. You can use a keyword research tool to find the right keywords.
- Optimize your title: The title of your app should be clear, concise, and relevant to the app’s content. It should also be optimized for keywords.
- Write a compelling description: The description of your app should be clear, concise, and persuasive. It should also be optimized for keywords.
- Add screenshots and videos: Screenshots and videos are a great way to show users what your app is all about. They can also help to improve your app’s ranking in the search results.
- Request ratings and reviews: Ask your users to rate and review your app. Positive ratings and reviews can help to improve your app’s ranking in the search results.
Benefits of App store optimization strategy to mobile apps
- Enhanced visibility Your app won’t feature if people can see it in searches. ASO enhances your visibility and boosts the chances of being seen by users or people searching for it. This creates better chances to make a download and install and recommend it to another person. Remember, app store optimization has conversion rate optimization techniques and can drive people to engage and make downloads.
- Get rid of paid advertising and marketing campaigns With enhanced visibility and discoverability among users, there is no need of spending money on paid advertising and marketing campaigns. The more appealing your app seems, the more organic downloads you are going to get. You can cut acquisition costs with effective ASO strategies and maintain a strong moral foundation for your app.
- Better Targeting and retention Accurate ASO listing and implementation on apps can target the right users. Right categorizations can eventually be based on the categories that eventually lead to higher engagements and retention rates within a short period of time.
- Brand awareness and audience smart optimization strategies can improve application visibility and reach. Consequently, being available in other languages helps in enhancing brand awareness and greater audience without expensive collaborations or paid ads that can enhance brand awareness and a greater audience without expensive collaborations or paid ads!
ASO Case Studies
App store optimization (ASO) is the process of improving the visibility and discoverability of mobile applications in app stores. ASO can be done by optimizing the app’s title, description, keywords, and other factors.
There are many case studies that demonstrate the effectiveness of ASO according to some websites. The following examples are from those that showcase the success of app store optimization (ASO) in increasing visibility, organic installs, and conversion rates.
Headspace App ASO Case Study
Headspace is a meditation app that saw a 40% increase in visibility, an 18% increase in installs via search, and a 2% increase in installs via search in key, non-English markets after implementing ASO best practices.
UBER App ASO Case Study
Uber is a ride-hailing app that saw a 50% increase in organic installs after optimizing its app title and icon.
Spotift App ASO Case Study
Spotify is a music streaming app that saw a 30% increase in organic installs after optimizing its app description and keywords.
These case studies demonstrate the effectiveness of ASO and show how optimization can lead to increased visibility, higher organic installs, and improved conversion rates.
If you’re looking to improve the visibility and performance of your mobile app, ASO is a great place to start. By optimizing your app’s title, description, keywords, and other factors, you can make it more likely that users will find and install your app.
Conclusion
ASO is an important part of any mobile app marketing strategy. By following the tips above, you can improve your app’s visibility in the app store and increase the number of downloads.
Also remember that ASO is an ongoing process that requires regular maintenance. To stay ahead of the competition, partner with Allianze Infosoft today and start optimizing your app for success. We’ll help you with everything from keyword research to app store optimization and help you achieve maximum visibility, downloads, and revenue for your app.