App Store Optimization (ASO) is the process of improving the visibility of a mobile application in the app stores like iTunes for iOS (iPhone and iPad) apps, Google Play for Android apps, Windows Store for Windows Phone apps, and BlackBerry World for BlackBerry apps. It is similar to SEO (search engine optimization), in which the website is optimized to improve its the visibility in the search engines like Google, Yahoo, and Bing etc.
App Store Optimization
Goal of App Store Optimization:
The primary goal of App Store Optimization is to rank higher for an app in the app store and drive more downloads.
Major App Store Optimization Methods:
Compared to SEO, ASO is still a young and evolving field. Currently, Keyword optimization and asset optimization are the major methods to achieve higher ranking for app in the app store:
Keyword Optimization (KWO):
Keyword optimization refers naming the app with the best keywords or well researched keywords that are related to app nature, features and functionalities. Keywords are mainly placed in app title, and description, which can also contain keyword included app features.
Asset Optimization (ASO):
Though it doesn’t directly affect keyword ranking, it affects app downloads considerably. Asset Optimization method includes attractive app icon, engaging preview video, and screenshots of an app. More downloaded apps generally achieve good ranking in the app store.
Other App Store Optimization techniques include consistent analysis of app position (ranking), number of downloads, rating/reviews, and localization (translating an app into different languages).