While we center app store optimization (ASO) a lot on mobile games, ASO for non-gaming apps is equally as important. Whether you’re marketing a fitness app, productivity tool, or shopping platform, mastering ASO can dramatically increase organic downloads and make sure users convert from the app store page. Here’s a deep dive into actionable, innovative tips tailored specifically for non-gaming apps.
Craft problem-solving titles and subtitles
Non-gaming apps succeed when their value proposition is immediately clear. Titles and subtitles should address a user pain point.
Actionable tip: Use a question or command in your app subtitle. Instead of “Track Your Budget,” try, “Need to Save More? Start Here!” This creates urgency and connects with the user’s problem on an emotional level. Test title variations with A/B testing platforms like Geeklab to find the most effective phrasing.
Localized store listings with micro-cultural references
Translations alone aren’t enough; cultural nuances play a significant role in user engagement.
Actionable tip: Research popular trends or local jargon in your target markets and incorporate these into your app descriptions and screenshots. For instance, a weather app in Australia could highlight “UV index alerts for outdoor adventures.” Note that unless you are natve in a certain geo, it is best to rely on professional localization services to make sure to not only a translate.
Use dynamic screenshots to tell a narrative
Make sure to leave a lasting first impression. The first screenshot gets the most attention and capturing the viewers attention with a narrative can help prompt a scroll to see more of the screenshots. Once again, A/B testing which creatives work best helps a lot.
Actionable Tip: Instead of static features, show how your app solves a problem step by step. For example, a meal-planning app could demonstrate “1. Enter Ingredients, 2. Get Recipes, 3. Save Your Shopping List.”
Leverage creative store updates based on seasonality
Don’t miss the chance to tap into seasonal demand spikes.
Actionable Tip: Update app store visuals, descriptions, and keywords to align with upcoming events or trends. For instance:
- Fitness apps: “Start Your New Year Strong with Personalized Workouts!”
- Shopping apps: “Find Last-Minute Holiday Deals Here.”
Integrate reviews and social proof in metadata
The proof is in the pudding, learn from reviews what your users love about your app.
Actionable Tip: Identify recurring user praise from reviews and include those specific terms in your description. If users rave about how your app “simplifies meal planning,” ensure that phrase appears in your description for better indexing and emotional resonance.
Track feature usage for precise keyword updates
User behavior holds a lot of insights and the more you are able to leverage that in product positioning and development tha better.
Actionable Tip: Use in-app analytics to identify the most-used features, and highlight them in your app description or even app name. For instance, if users frequently use a calendar sync feature, emphasize that with keywords like “Event Scheduling with Calendar Sync.”
Run tests for icon designs
A visually appealing icon can make a big impact, despite its small size.
Actionable Tip: A/B test variations of the app icon on Geeklab to find the one with the biggest impact. Consider colors within your category between your competitors and find the best palette to help your app stand out.
Retention signals help drive ASO results
App stores prioritize apps with strong engagement and retention metrics.
Actionable Tip: Encourage retention with in-app onboarding flows and notifications that keep users engaged within the first 7 days. Create a secondary call-to-action in your app store description that emphasizes retention, e.g., “Stay organized for the long term with our automated reminders.”
Don’t underestimate the power of custom listings
iOS Custom Product Pages & Google Custom Store Listings can be powerful tools in ensuring a smooth customer journey.
Actionable tip: Create segmented app pages for different use cases or audience segments. For example, a meditation app could highlight stress relief for corporate users in one variant and sleep improvement for parents in another, with distinct metadata and visuals tailored to each.
Wrapping up
ASO for non-gaming apps thrives off a blend of creativity, technical optimization, and a deep understanding of your audience. By implementing these actionable tips, you can enhance your app’s visibility and drive consistent organic downloads. Remember, ASO isn’t a one-time task. Regularly monitor performance and adjust your strategy to stay ahead competition.
Want tailored ASO advice for your non-gaming app? Let’s chat!
