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ASO Ranking Factors - The Key to App Store Success

Aug 11, 2023

By AppsHive Team

ASO Ranking Factors

Are you an app owner looking for your app to reach the right audience? 

Have you ever wondered why some apps rise to the top of the App Store while others remain unnoticed? 

Or 

How to market an app? 

The answer lies within the ASO ranking factors, an important aspect that could make or break your app’s success. In today’s competitive dimension, millions of apps are jostling for attention. 

Here understanding the importance of App Store ranking factors become crucial. 

Imagine having an app that offers immeasurable value, superior design, and flawless functionality but is buried under a sea of other apps. Simply because of the lack of effective optimization. So, your app’s potential remains untapped without the right ASO optimization strategy. 

ASO ranking factors checklist isn’t merely about understanding the ranking algorithms of ASO optimization; it is about analyzing human behavior and catering to user preferences. 

What keywords are you searching for? 

How do users make decisions about selecting an app through app listings? 

How do the app’s visuals influence their choices? 

These are the questions that lie at the core of ASO ranking factors. In this blog, we will understand the factors that affect ASO and influence the app’s visibility and discoverability on the App Store. Let’s dive in…

App Store Ranking Factors For Apple App Store and Google Play Store

App Store Ranking Factors

 

ASO ranking factors are the rules that decide which apps get the spotlight on Apple App Store vs Google Play Store. These ASO tools include app ratings, reviews, keyword usage, how often the app is updated, and how many people download the app and use it. 

Both app stores have their own criteria and ASO checklist, but the aim is to help users find apps that are popular, trustworthy, and relevant to their needs. Let’s understand the app store ranking factors to improve app ranking in detail:

The Foundation of ASO- Keyword Optimization

The keyword in the App Store acts similarly to that of the keywords used for SEO purposes. The keywords you target directly lead users right to your app. However, when compared to keywords for SEO, you can theoretically produce content to rank for hundreds of keywords which isn’t possible with App Store keywords. 

You are restricted to 100 characters, so targeting the right keyword is of utmost importance. The winning keyword consists of high traffic volume and low competition. The keywords are an important ASO ranking factor for both Google and Apple App Store, so choose wisely.

Crafting Compelling App Titles and Descriptions

App titles and descriptions act as your app’s first impression in ASO ranking factors. Make sure to use the keyword that weighs the heaviest in the title because it gives you 10.3% higher chances to rank than apps without keywords in the title. 

App titles and descriptions should be crafted in a way that conveys the app's value and encourages users to click the “Download” button. It is about speaking to the users’ needs and inviting them to explore what your app has to offer.

Visuals Matter- App Icon and Screenshots

App icons and screenshots act as visual ambassadors of the storefront display as they beckon users to step inside. An appealing icon catches the eye of the user in the app store, whereas screenshots showcase the app’s functionality and usage. Visual elements like videos can also be displayed in both the app search results. 

App Ranking Factors for iOS 

  • It is possible to add upto ten visual elements 
  • You can also add three videos of upto 30 seconds to display app previews 
  • You can also use text overlays 

App Ranking Factors for Android 

  • Can add up to 8 visual elements, including one video of up to 30 seconds 
  • Adequate screenshot sizes for all devices

Ratings, Reviews, and User Engagement

Ratings and reviews are tools to highlight the app's popularity as well as display the level of user engagement. It is likely that if your ratings are high, your app will be displayed at the top of the app store results. An important aspect of the app store optimization checklist is encouraging users to review and rate your app on the app store. 

The challenge is understanding when to prompt users, as App Store only lets you prompt for ratings three times a year. However, Google is less rigid, but it is still unclear with the number of times it lets you prompt for reviews. According to research, the best time to ask for review or feedback is right after a major app update.

Localizing Your App for Global Audience

A straightforward way to localize your app for a global audience is to open it up to more locales. Your app should be developed to suit various cultures, languages, and preferences. When you translate your app content and adjust visuals and features, you will create a personalized experience that connects with your audience worldwide. 

This approach will boost the app’s visibility, engage more users, and ultimately result in the app’s success. Localization is more than just language; it also considers cultural nuances, local laws, and currencies to increase the app’s success. 

List your app

 

Importance of Regular Updates and Bug Fixes

Regular updates and bug fixes are the backbone of any app’s success and are mandatory to keep your app running smoothly. By swiftly addressing bugs, you create a reliable user experience that garners positive reviews and ratings. 

Additionally, updating an app at regular intervals signals app stores that your app is actively maintained and relevant. This boosts visibility and improves your app’s chances of being recommended to users. Consistent updates and bug fixes elevate your app’s credibility and standing among competitors.

Social Proof and Influencer Marketing in ASO

You can think of social proof, and influencer marketing are your app’s cheerleaders. When people share good reviews and ratings, it shows others that your app is worth trying. 

Influencers, who are like popular guides, help you spread the word about your app to their followers by taking it through their social media accounts. Their support helps you to increase your app downloads and makes it more trustworthy among the audience. 

Hence, with the help of social proof and influencer marketing, your app becomes more popular across the targeted audience. 

These app store ranking factors will help you convert probable leads to organic downloads. With applying these factors, your app can grow stronger and get more downloads from your target audience.

Future Trends in ASO Ranking Factors

  • Voice Search Optimization: Apps adjust voice comments to appear in voice search results. 
  • Video Previews: To attract potential users, apps use videos to display app features. 
  • AI-driven Personalization: Tailor apps according to user experience and how they interact with them. 
  • App Clips: Brief video previews tempting users to engage without a full download. 
  • User Engagement Metrics: Apps are evaluated on the basis of how actively users interact and use them using ASO metrics
  • App Store Advertising: Paid ads influence app visibility alongside other factors. 
  • Social Media Integration: Apps integrate social media platforms to enhance their rankings. 
  • Augmented Reality: Integration of AR to offer interactive and immersive experiences to the users.
  •  Accessibility Features: Including features catering to users with disabilities also impact app ranking factors.

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