5 Main Factors to Better App SEO Explained

Search optimization isn’t limited to websites; it’s equally crucial for installed apps.

A few years ago, Google observed that users often search for apps directly through the search engine rather than navigating to app stores. Moreover, a relevant app can sometimes better serve a user’s intent, even when initially seeking a website. This shift has elevated the importance of SEO for mobile apps, making it essential for every app owner to adapt and stay visible.

In this post, we’ll explore how to master app SEO. We’ll also discuss the relationship between mobile app development services and SEO, how to find keywords for optimization, and other factors needed to rank your app on Google successfully.

Why does SEO for apps matter?

In short, it helps your mobile app reach a broader audience.

This is the core reason behind the emphasis on SEO. Promoting your app through search engines is often more effective than relying solely on app stores.

How SEO for mobile apps works

source: google.com

In search engines, users can discover your app in three primary ways:

1. Typing a brand name. Users directly search for your app by name, indicating strong brand recognition.
2. Searching for a specific purpose. Users look for apps that serve a particular function or solve a problem, such as “fitness tracker” or “budget planner.”
3. Typing content from your in-app materials. Users search for specific terms or content featured in your app, like article titles or features, leading them to your app as a resource. This method of visibility goes beyond what generic app store searches can achieve.

How to nail SEO for apps?

1. Contact a reliable mobile app development service provider

You might be wondering, what do application development services have to do with SEO?

In fact, the foundation of your SEO success begins during the development phase.

Performance problems have a snowball effect. Poorly made apps won’t stay on the user’s device for long, and the rating will quickly collapse. This will negatively affect your app’s visibility in search engines, as they consider the rating and the number of installs.

By collaborating with experienced mobile app development service companies, you can be sure that your app is technically solid and prepared to properly support your SEO efforts. So, invest in development and improve SEO in advance while the going is good.

2. Drive traffic

Create a strong network of backlinks and references to promote your app. Here’s how:

• Launch a website and landing page. Develop a site as your app’s central hub. Add a landing page with features, benefits, and download links. Make sure it’s fast and mobile-friendly to improve search rankings.
• Use content marketing. Publish blog posts like tutorials or industry insights to attract visitors. Direct this traffic to your app’s landing page.
• Grow your social media presence. Set up profiles on key platforms. Share updates, user stories, and behind-the-scenes content. Engage with followers to build a community that promotes your app.
• Leverage guest posts and influencer partnerships. Write for relevant sites and include links to your app—partner with influencers to increase visibility and credibility.

3. Use the right keywords

Keyword insertion is closely connected with ASO.

 

App store optimization (ASO) works similarly to SEO, but it focuses on enhancing your app’s visibility within Android Play or iOS App stores instead of search engines. While it doesn’t directly impact your web SEO, it still drives the same goal—increasing app downloads and user sign-ups.

 

To give you a better understanding of the differences between ASO and SEO, check this table:

 

Aspect	ASO	SEO
Platform	App stores (Google Play, App Store)	Search engines (Google, Bing, etc.)
Goal	Increase app visibility and downloads	Improve website ranking and traffic
Keywords	App-related	Website-related
Ranking factors	App name, ratings, downloads, reviews	Content quality, backlinks, technical SEO
Focus	App listing optimization	Website and content optimization

 

Start by refining your app’s description or “about” section with targeted keywords. Ideally, include long-tail keywords in the opening paragraph where they’re easily visible to potential users. Of course, it’s better if you hire SEO specialists in your in-house team or outsource SEO services.

 

When your app is optimized with relevant keywords, search engines understand what your app is about and are more likely to show it to users looking for similar content.

4. Prioritize user reviews and ratings

User reviews play a key role in enhancing visibility. Reviews on your website improve local search rankings, while App Store ratings boost your ASO performance. Both contribute significantly to your app’s success.

 

Encourage your current users to leave positive feedback on both platforms. If you receive a negative review, resolve the issue promptly and request an updated rating to reflect the improved experience.

 

High-quality reviews with positive ratings improve your app’s ranking in app stores, making it more visible to potential users.

 

5. Measure your mobile app SEO

SEO success depends on constant data analysis. Regularly monitor the impact of your ASO and SEO strategies to understand what’s working and what needs improvement. Use tools like Google Analytics, App Store Connect, and Google Play Console to track key metrics such as keyword rankings, organic downloads, and user engagement.

Set a monthly schedule to review these insights, brainstorm with your team, and identify areas for optimization. Adjust your strategies based on the data to enhance your app’s visibility and performance continuously.

How to optimize an app for SEO?

To optimize an app for SEO, start by linking it to a website through “website association.” This involves adding an intent filter to your app, linking the website, and integrating the app indexing API.

Once indexed, incorporate relevant search queries into your app and website content. This will boost visibility and rankings on search engines, ensuring your app reaches the right audience and drives results.

Wrapping up

Now you know more about SEO for mobile applications. We explained how mobile app development services will help you nail SEO, the difference between SEO and ASO, and how to adjust SEO for your app. Hope this information was useful!