This month’s ASO Monthly edition outlines the most relevant ASO developments from August. Here, we shed light on trends in App Store Optimization, algorithm changes, insights into conversion rate optimization, and tool updates.

 

August 1

Apple updated guidelines to clarify that PC emulators can offer to download games

Apple has clarified guidelines for apps offering embedded software like mini apps, games, streaming services, chatbots, and emulators. According to the guideline, the developers must ensure compliance with privacy rules, provide mechanisms for content filtering and user safety, and use in-app purchases for digital goods. Extending native platform APIs or sharing data without explicit user consent is prohibited. Additionally, developers must provide a detailed index of all software and ensure that age ratings reflect the highest-rated content in the app. Non-compliance with these rules will result in app rejection.

You can find the full App Store guidelines here.

 

August 8

Google Play Store’s new Search Tab and AI Highlights roll out widely

Earlier this year, we reported Google testing versions of a dedicated Search Tab and AI Highlights on the Play Store. This month, these changes rolled out to a larger number of Android devices, which means more users will now see the dedicated Search Tab as well as the AI Highlights. This separate Search Tab also offers a new ad placement similar to the sponsored section on the Apps & Games tab. AI Highlights are available for many apps with enough ratings and reviews to showcase an overview of what the app offers to the users.

 

August 9

Google introduces Custom Audience feature to the Play Store

The Google Play Store has introduced Custom Audiences to help app and game developers segment their user base into specific groups based on behavior, demographics, and other criteria — such as targeting players at certain levels. By using the Google Play Grouping API, developers can create tags that enable them to personalize the user experience with tailored content, including promotional materials, store listings, and featured products. Currently, this feature is available for apps that have access to Promotional Content.

 

August 18

AppTweak recorded a high anomaly score on the App Store

According to AppTweak’s App Store Algorithm Change Detector, the App Store in the US experienced a high anomaly (a score of 3.272 vs. the usual >0.5), with a similar spike observed in China. If you’ve noticed any irregularities in your app’s analytics or KPIs around that time, this algorithm change might be the cause. Keep an eye on these fluctuations as they could impact your app’s performance metrics.

 

August 20

Google adds new personalization settings to the Play Store

Google Play Store has been widely rolling out a new “Personalization in Play” menu, allowing users to control how their app data is used for personalization. According to Android Police, this feature, found inside the Play Store’s account switcher, lets users toggle data sharing for each app they’ve downloaded. While this enhances privacy, the process is still a bit cumbersome, especially for users with many apps. Google plans to improve the experience by adding search and filter options, addressing current usability concerns. The update reflects Google’s ongoing efforts to enhance Play Store functionality and user privacy.
Source: Android Police

 

August 25

Google Play can now update multiple apps simultaneously

Users with multiple apps on their Android devices often face long wait times as apps were updated one by one. However, according to Android Police, Google Play is now rolling out an update that allows up to three apps to be updated simultaneously. This improvement will significantly reduce the time users need to wait for their apps to update, making the process quicker and more efficient.
Source: Android Police

 

Tools/Updates:

Introducing Custom Instructions: Personalize Your AI-Generated Responses | AppFollow

 

Interesting Reads/Listens/Watches

4 ways to Monitor Performance of All Your Ranked App Store Keywords | AppTweak

The State of Gaming App Marketing – 2024 Edition | AppsFlyer

Benefits of leveraging ASO with ASA | AppSamurai

 

Phiture’s ASO tip of the month:

With the holiday season fast approaching, staying ahead of the competition is crucial. If you’re planning Black Friday specials, start preparing now! Submit your pitch at least two weeks before your in-app event or promotional content goes live. Being featured will help you capitalize on heightened user interest and maximize your downloads during this critical period.

Joy Staples — Senior Growth Manager, Phiture