Thousands of apps launch every day. Publishing is just one side of the coin. Reaching your target audience is the other one and to be honest, harder one as well.

Now, here comes App Store Optimization (ASO), an organic process to improve the pitch of your app and increase its visibility without doing paid ads.

SEO, but for apps.

In this blog, we’ll discuss 10 ideas that you can implement right after the launch and get the downloads without spending extra.

The Importance of ASO

Here are some benefits of ASO if done right:

• Improved App visibility
• Better reach through targeting.
• Build trust through good visuals, ratings, and reviews.
• It increases downloads without needing to spend money on ads.

Now, let’s explore each topic in detail.

1. Make Sure Your App Is Secure

Google Play Store and App Store provide their own code signing before publishing the app. However, if you are planning to publish it on Windows you need a code signing certificate.

Benefits of code signing:

• Protect your users from downloading unauthorized version of the app.
• Removes warning messages at the time of installation.
• Good for Branding.

 

2. Pick the Right App Name

Your app name is one of the first things users will see. Pick a name that is clear, relevant, and easy to remember. If possible, include a keyword that describes what your app does.

Example:

• Bad: “Zeno”
• Better: “Zeno: Meditation & Sleep App”

Tips:

• Keep it short, ideally under 30 characters.
• Avoid using symbols or complex words.
• Avoid copying existing app names because that can confuse users and hurt your ranking.

Also Read - What Are The Differences Between ASO And Mobile App Marketing?

3. Use Targeted Keywords in the Title and Description

Just like Google searches, people use keywords when finding new apps.

Perform brief keyword research before writing Title and Description of your app. Remember the one description you wrote will be published everywhere. If it fails to grab attention, users will move on even though you made a fantastic app.

How to find the right keywords:

• Tools: AppTweak, Sensor Tower, or Google Keyword Planner
• Check similar apps and observe which keywords they rank for.
• Include these keywords naturally in your app’s title, short description, and long description.

Don’t:

• Stuffing too many keywords.
• Repeating the same keyword excessively.

4. Write a Clear and Compelling App Description

An ideal app description consists of what the app does, who it’s for, and why someone should download it. Don’t use corporate jargon that bores readers. Keep it simple and interesting.

A good app description will:

• Start with a strong first sentence.
• Include your main features in bullet points.
• Mention awards, testimonials, or download stats.
• End with a call to action such as “Download now” or “Try it free today.”

Bonus Tip: Use simple, active voice. Write like you’re talking to a friend.

5. Design an Eye-Catching App Icon

Your app icon is your visual identity. A clean and attractive icon can help your app stand out among hundreds of others on the same screen.

What makes a good app icon:

• Simple and recognizable
• Free of unnecessary text or clutter
• High contrast with strong color choice
• Visually aligned with your app’s purpose and target audience

You can test multiple icon designs with real users through A/B testing to find the one.

6. Add Screenshots That Tell a Story

People check screenshots. They are more than just images. They act as a first level of visual communication before people use your app. You can impact viewer’s decision by good screenshots.

Tip: The most important screenshots are the ones that come first.

Some more tips:

• Use captions to highlight features, like “Track workouts easily” or “Chat securely.”
• Add UI images that show your app in real use.
• Include real-life use cases that users can relate to.
• Use portrait mode for most apps. Landscape works better for games or video apps.

You can also include a short video preview to demonstrate your app’s main features.

7. Encourage Ratings and Reviews

I don’t have to tell you how important ratings and reviews are for an App. Even established companies monitor their App’s ratings and interest with their users regularly.

How to get more reviews:

• Ask users at the right time, such as after completing a task.
• Use in-app review prompts to make it easy.
• Respond to negative reviews with helpful and polite replies.
• Fix bugs quickly so that users stay satisfied.

Even a few positive reviews on launch day can significantly boost your download numbers.

Also Read - 5 Tips to Increase Mobile App Downloads

8. Localize Your App Listing

Is your app available in multiple countries? You can translate your app description, and screenshots into local languages to reach a global audience.

Benefits:

• More visibility in non-English search results
• Trust among international users
• Better app engagement and retention

Start with top languages like Spanish, German, French, or Hindi, and see the results.

9. Monitor and Optimize Post-Launch

Your real work starts once the app goes live. ASO is not a one-time process. Monitor app performance and make changes based on real user data.

Things to track:

• Keyword rankings
• Download and uninstall rates
• User reviews and feedback
• App store conversion rates

Firebase, App Annie, or Apple App Analytics are some good analytics tools to gather insights and optimize your app listing.

10. Promote Your App Outside the Store

The focus of ASO is to increase the app visibility inside app stores.  But you can go an extra mile by promoting your app outside the store to build early traction and brand awareness.

Tips:

• Create a landing page with app details and download links.
• Use social media platforms to share updates and user stories.
• Send email campaigns to your existing contacts.
• Partner with bloggers or influencers in your niche.
• Submit your app to review websites and launch platforms.

Don’t mistake this as a PPC campaign. There are many free and organic ways to promote your app without paying anything.

Some Examples:

• Submit your app on free App listing sites
• Use promocodes
• Guest blogging

Last Notes

App Store Optimization is not a rocket science. You don’t need to be a technical person to master it. All you need is good guidance.