The following is the most update way to optimize your app for the Apple AppStore.
App Name
- use descriptive app name which includes (additional) keywords
- make sure to use url-safe characters
App Keywords
- 99 characters maximum
- don’t repeat app name
- choose keywords where you can rank high
- avoid category name
- avoid plural and spaces (save characters)
- if the app is free, the term “free will automatically be added
- no bonus when using long keywords “love letter,letter writer”=”love,letter,writer”
Take advantage of the first 3 lines and include social proof.
App Description
- will not count in search so avoid making “robotic”/repetitive
- 90% attention to first 3 lines
- include social proof (awards, ranking, reviews, blog posts etc)
- include all features list
- localize in as many languages as possible
App Updates
- in iOS6 has same relevance as description
- entice users to update/download
Fancy QR Code Generator icon
App Icon
- avoid words
- keep it simple and clean
- include details (show quality)
- consistent with app design & style
- stand out from crowd/competition (check out “neighbors”)
A screenshot that shows the most features.
App Screenshots
- use all screenshots available
- first one is most relevant (also needs to “explain” app)
- localise screenshots
- add explanations (use as marketing)
App Ratings
- allow users to reach you (website, email, inapp)
- be courteous and available
- maintain and fix app!
- prompt engaged users for review
Extras
- prompt your community of users/friends to “like” your app
- iPhone results are slightly different from iTunes results
- inapp purchase names are no longer valuable
Further reading: BigBalli Apps, Apptamin, SearchManSEO, MobileDevHQ, AppCod.es, iOS Icon Gallery, App Icon Template, App Booster, AppBoy and AppTentive.
One Comment
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What are some good practices for optimization of AppStore pages for better conversion?…
Just covering 1) jaw dropping icon 2) good keywords (use tools and tweak often) 3) good title (se long tail) 4) description covering (grab attention, social proof, reviews, quotes, why they should get it) 5) good first screenshot (you will only see thi…
What are the best SEO tricks for Appstores?…
the key points are icon, app name, keywords and first screenshots. You can find a detailed tutorial/walkthrough here: http://giacomoballi.wordpress.com/2012/10/21/complete-apple-appstore-optimization-aso…
What are the tools that developers should use for App Store Optimization?…
the key points are icon, name, keywords and first screenshot. You can find a detailed tutorial/walkthrough here: http://giacomoballi.wordpress.com/2012/10/21/complete-apple-appstore-optimization-aso Reagrding tools I use appannie and searchmanSEO….
What is the optimal description length in the Apple App Store?…
You can find a detailed tutorial/walkthrough here: http://giacomoballi.wordpress.com/2012/10/21/complete-apple-appstore-optimization-aso…
How should one go about choosing a keyword list for Apple’s App Store?…
I also use searchmanSEO (and Appannie). However, a good trick is to use the AppStore’s autocomplete function to gain user insight. You can find a detailed tutorial/walkthrough here: http://giacomoballi.wordpress.com/2012/10/21/complete-apple-appstore-…
As an Indie Developer, is it better to market apps heavily or focus on publishing more apps?…
1) depends on app functionality and target user. 2) always have a landing page, actual website doesn’t matter 3) issue a press release, I like PrMac 4) email review websites 5) follow blogs, linkedin & twitter (where target is) and promote app 6) avoi…
[...] now imminent changes to the app itself. AppStore Optimisation requires a lot of tweaking (more info here) therefore it is crucial know what you can “play with” in order to find the best mix to [...]