Best tips on how to optimize your mobile app to increase revenue
Vica Cotoarba
Head of Mobile Development
Reading time: 3 min
Published: Sep 26, 2018
Key takeaways
- App store optimization (ASO) works like SEO and is the foundation for app visibility.
- Publish on both the Apple App Store and Google Play to reach the widest audience.
- The App Store uses a 100-character keyword field; Google Play relies on the description, so tailor metadata per store.
- Free-to-download apps lower the barrier and drive more installs you can monetize later.
- Make in-app purchases fast and frictionless to convert more users into paying customers.
People open apps dozens of times a day. To earn a share of that attention, you first need people to find your app. That is where app store optimization comes in.
Getting users to spend money in an app is a tough sell. It is not impossible, though. Done right, your app can become a steady source of revenue.
This guide shares practical tips on how to optimize your mobile app to increase revenue. Let's dig in.
App store optimization is the foundation
If you understand search engine optimization (SEO), you already grasp the basics of app store optimization (ASO). The two work in much the same way.
Strong ASO helps your app rank higher in the store. Even a clear, keyword-rich app description can boost visibility in store search results.
There are two main marketplaces: Apple's App Store and Google Play. You should publish on both. Skipping one means missing a huge share of potential users.
How the two stores differ
Both stores use signals like the app title and rating to rank apps. Some signals behave differently, though.
The App Store uses a dedicated keyword field, limited to 100 characters, to help users discover apps. Google Play has no keyword field. Instead, it indexes the full text of your title, short description, and long description to shape visibility. Tailor your metadata for each store.
Free-to-download apps lower the barrier
People are cost-sensitive. They want real value for their money. So ask yourself what makes your app stand out from the dozens of alternatives.
Your first priority is to get people to download the app. No upfront fee feels welcoming and removes the barrier that stops many users from trying it.
Remove the download cost and you will usually see a surge in installs. Once users are inside, treat the app as a platform to sell your product. The more people who download it, the more will eventually spend.
Make in-app purchases effortless
When a user decides to buy, everything should feel smooth. Your goal is a streamlined checkout with no hurdles.
Here is one simple win: let users buy several items at once. If your app has multiple micro-transactions, allow them to complete these in a single step where possible.
Timing matters at the moment of purchase. Set up your store so users reach the item they want with little effort. Cut the waiting time and skip the pop-ups. Just take them to the item.
When users spend less time buying and more time enjoying the app, you know you have done it right. It is one of the best ways to optimize your mobile app to increase revenue.
Keep improving after launch
ASO and monetization are never finished. Watch your rankings, reviews, and conversion rates. Then refine your listing and purchase flow over time.
Faster load times help too. A snappy app keeps users engaged, so it is worth learning how to optimize your iOS build time as your product grows.
We are Wolfpack Digital, and we love building powerful web and mobile apps that make a big impact. Curious about the cost of maintaining an app? Our app maintenance team can help.
Ready to build or grow your app? Get in touch and let's build something powerful together.
