Getting your app featured on the Apple App Store is a big win for developers. It’s not just a badge of honor—it can fast-track your app’s growth by giving it more exposure and credibility.
Apple is a major player in the mobile market, especially in the U.S., where over half of Americans use iPhones. In 2023, Apple is expected to ship more than 232 million iPhones worldwide, making the App Store a crucial platform if you’re aiming for success.
Launching your app on the App Store opens up access to about 15% of the global smartphone market. Here’s why getting featured on the App Store is so important:
Why Is It So Important to Get Featured on the App Store?
When your app gets featured, it gains more visibility, which leads to more downloads and user engagement. This spotlight helps build your app’s reputation, signaling to users that it’s a high-quality and trustworthy option.
Apple’s endorsement adds value to your app, increasing user trust and loyalty. Featured apps often see a boost in sales and in-app purchases, which is great for revenue.
In a competitive app market, being featured can be a game changer, giving your app the boost it needs to grow its user base and financial success.
App Store Feature Categories
Apple organizes featured apps into several categories. Familiarizing yourself with these categories helps in targeting your app’s ideal placement.
Editor’s Choice
A top-tier feature where Apple’s editorial team chooses apps that exemplify excellence in design, functionality, and user engagement.
App of the Day and Game of the Day
Daily rotations of high-quality apps and games that Apple wants users to explore.
App Collections
Themes like “Must-Have Apps for Productivity” or “Great Games for Kids” where apps are grouped based on relevance and quality.
Meeting Apple’s Guidelines
First and foremost, your app must align with Apple’s strict guidelines. Here are a few key areas to focus on:
Apple’s Design Guidelines
Apple prides itself on design. Your app must follow Apple’s Human Interface Guidelines (HIG), ensuring clean aesthetics, intuitive navigation, and seamless functionality.
Functionality and Stability Standards
Make sure your app is bug-free and works flawlessly across all Apple devices. Apps that crash or have performance issues are unlikely to be featured.
Privacy Policies and Data Protection
Apple is very particular about user privacy. Your app must be transparent about its data usage and comply with Apple’s privacy policies.
Focus on Design and User Experience (UX)
Design plays a critical role in getting your app noticed. Apple’s editors have a keen eye for apps that offer seamless user experiences with beautifully crafted interfaces.
Why Design is Important to Apple
Apple is known for its obsession with design, and they expect the same from developers. A well-designed app is not only visually appealing but also easy to use, providing value without frustrating the user.
Seamless UX for a Better Chance of Being Featured
A seamless user experience, from onboarding to daily use, is crucial. Navigation should feel natural, animations should enhance interactions, and no part of the app should feel clunky.
Consistent Branding Across Devices
Ensure your app offers a consistent experience across iPhones, iPads, and even Apple Watches. This cohesiveness demonstrates a polished, well-thought-out product.
Regularly Update Your App
Apple loves apps that stay fresh. Regular updates show that you’re committed to improving user experience.
Keeping Your App Fresh with Updates
Regularly release updates that introduce new features or refine existing ones. Bug fixes and performance improvements are equally important.
Leveraging New Apple Features
Stay ahead by incorporating the latest features from iOS updates, such as widgets, App Clips, or ARKit. Apple loves apps that showcase their latest technologies.
Use of In-App Events to Draw Attention
With iOS 15, Apple introduced in-app events, a feature that highlights app updates, live events, and major content drops. This is a great tool to maintain visibility.
Get Positive Reviews and High Ratings
Apple values the opinions of its users, and apps with strong reviews are more likely to be featured.
Encouraging User Feedback
Ask your users to rate and review your app after they’ve had a positive experience. The more positive reviews you get, the better your app’s chances.
How to Handle Negative Reviews
Respond promptly and professionally to negative reviews. A quick fix to an issue can turn a bad review into a great one.
Why Reviews Influence Apple’s Choices
High ratings and glowing reviews signal to Apple that your app is well-liked by users, which can influence their decision to feature it. Also get featured on essence magazine.
FAQs
How do you get featured in the App Store?
Create a high-quality, innovative app with great design. Follow Apple’s guidelines, use the latest iOS features, and promote your app effectively.
How to get your app featured by Apple?
Build a unique app with an excellent user experience. Ensure it’s optimized for Apple devices, follow App Store guidelines, and stay updated on new Apple technologies.
What does it mean to be featured on the App Store?
Being featured means Apple showcases your app in prominent spots on the App Store, helping it reach more users.
How do I get my app listed on the App Store?
Register as an Apple developer, follow App Store guidelines, and submit your app through App Store Connect for review.
Conclusion
Getting your app featured on the App Store can be a game changer, giving you more visibility, user engagement, and revenue. To increase your chances, focus on high-quality design, seamless functionality, and regularly update your app.
Make sure it follows Apple’s guidelines and integrates new iOS features. Encouraging positive user reviews and maintaining a strong user experience across Apple devices will also help. By paying attention to these details, you can improve your chances of being featured and achieving greater success with your app.
