Unlike web search, app store search remains a black box for the majority, only the big two platforms know for certain what their users are searching for — but that might change soon.
Third-party technology providers such as analytics or attribution services with access to a large number of apps can get a glimpse. The different ASO tools’ search estimates often rely on Apple Search Priority or Apple Search Ads popularity (which only provides a score, not actual search volumes) at best. Most often however, it’s mixed with other signals, mostly from web-based searches.

Before 2018 kicks into full gear, here are our most popular posts from 2017

This article aims to give an outline about which practices of Black Hat ASO are out there, how to be effective with ASO, and not miss out on traffic while at the same time steering clear of dangerous or shady tactics.