This month’s ASO Monthly edition outlines the most relevant May developments. Here, we shed light on trends in App Store Optimization, algorithm changes, insights into conversion rate optimization, and tool updates.
May 1
New Privacy Requirements for App Submissions started on May 1st
The App Store prioritizes user safety and privacy, incorporating features like Privacy Nutrition Labels and app tracking transparency. Starting May 1, 2024, new or updated apps using popular third-party SDKs must meet specific requirements by providing reasons for listed APIs, include privacy manifests, and have valid signatures for SDKs added as binary dependencies. Apps failing to meet these standards will be rejected. These measures aim to enhance user privacy and security, ensuring developers maintain accountability for all code within their apps.
You can find the full list of SDKs requiring a privacy manifest and signature on Apple’s developer website here.
May 1
Google Play Store now allows two apps to be downloaded simultaneously
The Google Play Store now allows users to download two apps simultaneously, a feature that enhances the user experience by making the process of installing multiple apps more efficient. Previously, users could only download one app at a time. This new functionality currently applies only to fresh app installations, not to app updates. The feature is especially useful during the setup of new Android devices, making the process of installing your favorite apps much faster. Google has been working on this feature since 2019, and it is now becoming widely available.
May 2
Google will show labels to identify government apps
As reported by TechCrunch, Google has introduced labels in the Play Store to identify official government apps. This feature aims to help users quickly recognize apps that are officially published or endorsed by government entities, enhancing trust and security. The labels are part of Google’s efforts to ensure users can easily find and verify government-related apps, especially for accessing public services and information. You can read the full article here.
May 14
Google I/O brings Engage SDK, CSLs by keywords, prompts to update app, and new billing methods
Google I/O 2024 introduced several significant updates for AI and Google Play. Key highlights include Custom Store Listings targeting by search keywords, an Engage SDK to index in-app content and track user engagement, and enhanced app update processes eliminating the Wi-Fi requirement. New billing methods like PIX in Brazil and UPI in India, along with automatic price adjustments, were also unveiled to improve monetization. These updates aim to boost app visibility, user engagement, and revenue potential for developers. As a side note, Google is also working towards enhancing store listings to enable cross-device discovery seamlessly. You can read about all important changes here.
May 15
New on the Play Store: Custom Store Listings targeting search keywords
Google has introduced a new feature for Custom Store Listings (CSLs) on the Play Store, allowing app developers to target up to 500 search keywords per CSL. This enhancement enables the creation of tailored listings based on specific keywords, potentially boosting conversion rates by showcasing relevant app features and optimized visuals. The console aids in keyword selection by displaying top-converting keywords and their variants. Developers can apply this on a global scale or filter by specific countries, enhancing the relevance and effectiveness of their app’s store presence.
May 28
Apple introduces the 2024 Apple Design Award Finalists
Each year, Apple selects apps for the Apple Design Awards based on innovation, creativity, and technical achievements in app and game design. The chosen apps are thoughtfully designed, drive innovation, provide outstanding and engaging user experiences, and make exceptional use of Apple technologies with optimized performance. This year, finalists include apps like Tiimo, Arc Search, and SmartGym, as well as games such as Call of Duty: Warzone Mobile, Lost in Play, and Cityscapes. You can check the complete list of finalists here.
Tool Updates
AppRadar | Localizations: Extended Competitor Insights
AppFollow | Introducing AI Automation for Review Replies on AppFollow
Interesting Reads/Listens/Watches
13 Mobile App Analytics Tools: Which is the Best One for You? | AppSamurai
Google I/O 2024 Highlights: AI & Google Play Updates | AppTweak
Similar Apps in Google Play: Are they Important for ASO | AppRadar
How to use AI to boost your ASO | AppsFlyer
Before you go
With the new ability for ASO practitioners to create custom store listings targeting specific keywords, rethinking your app store growth strategy is now more crucial than ever. For brand-focused apps, you can design specific custom store listings to better appeal to brand-aware users, potentially increasing conversions despite competitor ads. For apps relying on discovery or generic keywords, targeting custom user segments based on their search terms will be more straightforward but will require a solid relevance appeal strategy. Ensure you use the right keywords in your metadata and visual assets to maximize conversion rates and attract the right users.
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