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Category: Blog

  • This Motivation App Makes $600,000 a Month

    In the bustling world of mobile apps, simplicity often trumps complexity. A prime example is the “Motivation – Daily Quotes” app by Monkey Taps, which reportedly generated over $600,000 in monthly revenue back in 2020 . This app delivers daily motivational quotes via push notifications, offering users a dose of inspiration throughout their day. Its straightforward approach has not only resonated with users but also translated into significant earnings.Google Play+2blog.motivation.app+2Sensor Tower+2

    The Power of Simplicity in App Design

    The core functionality of the Motivation app is elegantly simple: it sends users daily motivational quotes. This minimalistic approach ensures ease of use and broad appeal. Users can customize the frequency and timing of these notifications, tailoring the experience to their personal preferences .

    Beyond push notifications, the app offers features like home screen widgets, customizable themes, and the ability to share favorite quotes on social media platforms. These additions enhance user engagement without complicating the user interface.

    Strategic App Store Optimization (ASO)

    Achieving visibility in app stores is crucial for user acquisition. The Motivation app excels in this area by ranking prominently for keywords like “motivation” and “positive affirmations.” This high visibility is partly due to strategic ASO practices, including the use of promotional images for in-app purchases, which can appear in search results and attract potential users.

    Moreover, the app leverages user feedback by prompting users to share their reasons for downloading the app. This information can be invaluable for refining app store listings and marketing strategies to better align with user motivations.

    Monetization Through Freemium Model

    The Motivation app employs a freemium model, offering basic features for free while providing premium content through subscriptions. Users can access additional quote categories or themes by either subscribing or watching ads, offering flexibility in how they choose to engage with premium content.

    This dual approach caters to different user preferences and maximizes revenue potential. The app also strategically delays the appearance of the “close” button on subscription prompts, subtly encouraging users to consider upgrading.

    Key Takeaways for Indie App Marketers

    1. Embrace Simplicity: A straightforward app with a clear value proposition can attract and retain users effectively.

    2. Optimize for Search: Invest in ASO to ensure your app ranks well for relevant keywords, increasing visibility and downloads.

    3. Leverage User Feedback: Use insights from user interactions to refine your app’s features and marketing messages.

    4. Flexible Monetization: Offer multiple avenues for users to access premium content, catering to diverse preferences and increasing revenue streams.

    5. Strategic UI Elements: Thoughtfully design prompts and calls-to-action to guide users toward desired behaviors, such as subscribing or sharing content.

    Conclusion

    The success of the Motivation app underscores the potential of simple, well-executed ideas in the app marketplace. By focusing on user needs, optimizing for discoverability, and employing flexible monetization strategies, indie app marketers can replicate this success. Remember, in the world of apps, less can indeed be more.

  • 7 ASO Ranking Factors That Will Boost Your App’s Visibility

    Want more organic app downloads? The secret lies in App Store Optimization (ASO)—the SEO of the app world. In this action-packed guide, we’ll break down the 7 most critical factors that influence your app’s keyword rankings and how to optimize them for maximum visibility and downloads.

    Whether you’re an indie developer or a seasoned marketer, mastering these ASO strategies will help you outrank competitors and grow your user base organically. Let’s dive in!

    1. App Title: Your #1 Ranking Factor

    Your app title is the most important element for keyword rankings. App stores weigh the keywords here heavily, so choose wisely.

    Best Practices for App Titles:

    ✅ Include high-traffic keywords (e.g., Yelp: Food, Delivery, Restaurants)
    ✅ Keep it short & natural (avoid stuffing)
    ✅ Place the most important keywords first
    ❌ Don’t overcomplicate it—clarity beats cleverness

    Pro Tip: A/B test different titles to see which performs best!

    2. Subtitle (iOS) / Short Description (Google Play)

    Your subtitle (iOS) or short description (Google Play) is a secondary but powerful ranking factor.

    Optimization Tips:

    🔹 Prioritize high-value keywords (e.g., “Nearby Restaurants & Takeout”)
    🔹 Avoid branding here—focus on features & benefits
    🔹 Place strongest keywords at the beginning (Google’s algorithm favors left-side keywords)

    Mistake to Avoid: Don’t waste this space on brand slogans—nobody searches for them!

    3. Keywords & Long Descriptions

    For iOS (Keyword Field):

    • No spaces after commas (e.g., food,delivery,restaurants)

    • Max 100 characters—every space counts!

    • Don’t repeat keywords already in your title/subtitle

    For Google Play (Long Description):

    • Use H2 tags (HTML formatting) for better readability

    • Bold important keywords

    • Focus on keyword density (but keep it natural)

    Example of a Strong H2 Tag:
    ✔ “Find the Best Restaurants Near You” (instead of vague phrases like “Discover & Review”)

    4. Screenshots: The Silent Converter

    While not a direct ranking factor, screenshots boost conversions—especially on iOS, where they appear in search results.

    Screenshot Best Practices:

    📌 Showcase core features (e.g., food delivery app? Highlight order tracking)
    📌 Use text overlays with keywords
    📌 A/B test different visuals (some clients double downloads just by optimizing screenshots!)

    5. Reviews & Ratings: Social Proof Matters

    More positive reviews = higher rankings + more trust.

    How to Get More 5-Star Reviews:

    🌟 Ask at the right moment (e.g., after a user completes a task)
    🌟 Use in-app prompts (iOS’s built-in review request is seamless)
    🌟 Filter unhappy users (only ask satisfied customers to rate)

    Pro Tip: A 4.5+ star rating can significantly improve conversion rates.

    6. App Category: Choose Wisely

    Picking the right category can help you rank higher in less competitive spaces.

    Category Selection Tips:

    🔎 Match your app’s core function (don’t game the system)
    🔎 Test different categories to see which performs best
    🔎 Avoid oversaturated categories unless you dominate a niche

    7. App Size: Speed Matters (Especially on Google Play)

    Google prioritizes smaller apps in regions with slow internet.

    How to Reduce App Size:

    ⚡ Optimize images & assets
    ⚡ Remove unused code/libraries
    ⚡ Consider modular downloads (feature-by-feature installation)

    Bonus: Pro ASO Tips for Indie Developers

    🔹 A/B test everything (titles, screenshots, descriptions)
    🔹 Use ASO tools (like App Radar, MobileAction) for keyword research
    🔹 Stay updated—app store algorithms change frequently!

    Final Thoughts: ASO is a Long-Term Game

    Optimizing for keyword rankings isn’t a one-time task—it’s an ongoing process. By focusing on these 7 key factors, you’ll increase visibility, boost conversions, and drive more organic downloads.

    🚀 Ready to dominate the app stores? Start implementing these strategies today!

    What’s your biggest ASO challenge? Drop a comment below! 👇

    Want more ASO secrets? Subscribe for Part 3, where we dive into advanced keyword research strategies!

    📌 Follow Steve P. Young for more app growth tips: @stevepyoung | staging.appmasters.com/

  • CheckASO Review: The Ultimate ASO Tool to Skyrocket Your App Rankings

    CheckASO Review: The Ultimate ASO Tool to Skyrocket Your App Rankings

    Want to dominate the app stores? Discover how CheckASO.io—the powerful ASO tool Steve P. Young swears by—can boost your keyword rankings, track competitors, and maximize organic downloads—even if you’re a beginner!

    In this hands-on review, we’ll break down CheckASO’s best free & paid features, plus actionable ASO strategies you can use today.

    Why CheckASO? A Game-Changer for App Marketers

    Most ASO tools give vague “scores” without real insights. CheckASO.io stands out by offering:
    ✅ Free ASO Index – Get instant optimization scores
    ✅ Competitor Keyword Tracking – Spy on top apps like Calm & Headspace
    ✅ Localized Keyword Research – Optimize for global markets
    ✅ Visual Performance Dashboards – See rankings, search volume & trends

    Best part? You can start with a 7-day free trial to test all premium features!

    Key Features Breakdown: How to Use CheckASO Like a Pro

    1. Free ASO Index: Your Instant Optimization Report Card

    CheckASO’s free ASO Index grades your app’s optimization level (0-10) across:

    • Title (Are you using high-traffic keywords?)

    • Subtitle/Short Description (Are key terms prioritized?)

    • Keyword Field (iOS) / Long Description (Google Play)

    Example: Calm scores 7.6 in Health & Fitness—but could improve by adding “Meditation & Sleep” to its title!

    💡 Pro Tip: Use this free report to convince your team (or boss) why ASO matters!

    2. Competitor Keyword Analysis (Paid Feature)

    See exactly which keywords rivals rank for—and where you overlap.

    Steve’s Insight:

    *”Headspace shares 241 top-ranking keywords with Calm. If you’re in meditation, these are the terms you MUST target!”*

    🔍 Actionable Strategy:

    • Steal winning keywords from top competitors

    • Fill gaps where you’re missing high-volume terms

    3. Localized Keyword Tracking (Game-Changer for Global Apps!)

    Most ASO tools only track US rankings. CheckASO shows performance by country:

    🌎 Example: Calm ranks #1 for “Meditation” in Canada but #6 in France. Why? Their French localization needs work!

    How to Use This:

    1. Go to Ranks > Select Countries (e.g., France, Germany)

    2. Translate keywords (built-in tool!)

    3. Update your localized app titles/descriptions

    🚀 Result: Higher rankings in untapped markets!

    4. ASO Editor: Optimize Before You Publish (Paid Feature)

    Problem: Most devs guess which keywords work. CheckASO’s Editor highlights:

    • Which keywords you’re actually ranking for

    • Missing high-traffic terms

    📌 Pro Tip: Paste your title, subtitle & description into the editor to see:
    ✔ Keyword density
    ✔ Search volume per term
    ✔ Competitor comparisons

    Who Should Use CheckASO?

    ✔ Indie Developers – Free ASO Index is a must for beginners
    ✔ ASO Agencies – Client reports made easy
    ✔ App Growth Teams – Data-driven keyword strategies

    Final Verdict: Is CheckASO Worth It?

    👍 Pros:

    • Free ASO Index (rare in premium tools!)

    • Best-in-class localization features

    • Clear, actionable data (no vague “scores”)

    👎 Cons:

    • No direct App Store submission (yet)

    • Advanced features require paid plan

    💡 Steve’s Recommendation:

    *”Start with the free ASO Index, then use the 7-day trial to test premium features. If you’re serious about ASO, it’s a no-brainer.”*

    Learn Checkaso: https://bit.ly/2HJXwW6

  • The Two Apple Search Ads Campaigns Every Indie App Marketer Should Run

    I’m Steve P. Young, founder of staging.appmasters.com/, and today, I’m breaking down two essential Apple Search Ads campaigns you must be running — whether you’re launching a new app or trying to lower your cost-per-install (CPI) without wasting thousands on guesswork.

    Let’s dive into the fastest way to grow downloads, test your paywall, and find product-market fit.

    Why Apple Search Ads Should Be Your Secret Weapon

    Apple Search Ads (ASA) offer something few platforms can:
    Intent-based traffic.

    When someone searches for “rain sounds” or “sleep sounds,” they’re already looking for an app like yours.
    That means higher conversion rates, lower CPIs, and a direct shot at valuable users.

    Unlike Facebook ads or TikTok, where you’re interrupting users, Search Ads capture users exactly when they want you.

    The 2 Must-Run Apple Search Ads Campaigns

    1. Exact Match Campaign: Laser-Targeted Precision

    This is your first move if you’re launching a new app, testing a paywall, or validating your retention metrics.

    Here’s how to set it up:

    • Go to Apple Search Ads → Create a new campaign (use Advanced mode for more control).

    • Choose your app and target country (e.g., United States).

    • Set your budget: Start small ($200–$500 total).

    • Turn OFF Search Match — you want to manually control the keywords.

    • Add high-intent keywords you know users are searching for (e.g., “rain sounds,” “sleep sounds”).

    • Set all keywords to Exact Match.

    • Target new users only to avoid paying for re-installs.

    ✅ Pro Tip: Follow Apple’s recommended CPT (cost-per-tap) bid to stay competitive.

    2. Discovery Campaign: Uncover Hidden Keyword Gems

    While your exact match campaign covers the obvious targets, the Discovery Campaign lets Apple’s AI uncover new, valuable keywords you may have missed.

    Set it up like this:

    • Create a second campaign, again using Advanced mode.

    • Name it “Discovery.”

    • Set a similar budget (around $200).

    • Turn ON Search Match — let Apple find new keyword opportunities.

    • Add your exact match keywords as Negative Keywords so Apple doesn’t double-dip.

    • Do NOT manually add any keywords — Apple handles this!

    ✅ Pro Tip: Review new keywords found here and feed winning ones back into your organic ASO strategy for even more growth.

    Why This Two-Campaign Strategy Works

    Running both an Exact Match and a Discovery Campaign gives you the perfect balance of:

    • Control (with exact match)

    • Exploration (with discovery)

    • Faster Testing (see real paywall conversion and retention rates quickly)

    • Lower CPIs (Search Ads often outperform Facebook and other ad networks)

    For many clients at AppMasters, we’ve even seen better cost-per-install on Search Ads compared to Facebook — and that’s saying something.

    Actionable Tips for Indie App Marketers

    If you’re serious about growing your app, here’s what to do next:

    • Start Small: Budget $200–$500 to test initial performance.

    • Prioritize Learning: Track subscription conversions, retention rates, and user engagement.

    • Use Data to Iterate: Optimize your onboarding or paywall based on early feedback.

    • Double Down on Winners: Take successful keywords from your Discovery Campaign and use them for ASO and Exact Match.

    👉 Remember: The goal is not just cheap downloads — it’s finding the right users who stick around, subscribe, and become loyal fans.

    Final Thoughts: Build Smarter, Not Harder

    As an indie app marketer, every dollar counts.
    By running these two Search Ads campaigns, you’ll set yourself up for:

    • More downloads

    • Higher quality users

    • Smarter budget allocation

    • Faster product-market fit validation

    Don’t waste months guessing. Start driving intent-based downloads today, and watch your app climb the charts.

    Want to go deeper?
    Join AppMasters Academy to get exclusive strategies, 1:1 coaching, and insider access to everything that’s working in app marketing right now.

    Let’s grow your app the smart way 🚀.

    Video Highlights

    00:18 – The penultimate search ad campaigns that you should be utilizing when you want to optimize your downloads, test retention rate, AND test your subscription paywall.

    01:02 – Quick, easy steps on how to set up your ad campaign.

    01:28 – What is an exact match ad campaign.

    01:45 – Just how much is the ideal budget setting for a search ads campaign.

    03:00 – Keywords, keywords, keywords: how do you choose them.

    03:41 – Discovery campaign: boosting your ad campaign.

    05:00 – More tips in choosing keywords for your ad campaign.

  • How Indie App Marketers Can Master Apple Search Ads, ASO, and Video Previews for Maximum Growth

    Growing an app today isn’t just about great design or unique features — it’s about mastering how you appear, how you convert, and how you optimize across multiple channels. Whether you’re an indie app creator or a mobile growth marketer, understanding the dance between Apple Search Ads (ASA), App Store Optimization (ASO), and video previews can be your golden ticket to lower costs, higher rankings, and more downloads.

    In this guide, you’ll discover how Apple’s algorithms really work, why your conversion rates matter more than you think, and how to leverage video previews to drive even better results. Let’s dive in!

    Why ASO and ASA Work Hand-in-Hand for App Growth

    Apple Search Ads and App Store Optimization might seem like two separate strategies, but the truth is: they fuel each other.

    Here’s what’s happening under the hood:

    • Apple’s ranking algorithm heavily considers Tap-Through Rates (TTR) and Conversion Rates (CR).

    • If your app converts well (users install after visiting your page), Apple ranks your app higher — both organically and in paid ads.

    • Better conversion rates mean lower cost per tap (CPT) for ads and higher organic visibility on the App Store.

    Takeaway:
    👉 Investing in strong ASO improves your Search Ads performance.
    👉 Running Search Ads can also boost your organic rankings by proving keyword relevance through real downloads.

    How to Use Apple Search Ads for Smart Keyword Testing

    Paid and organic growth aren’t separate silos anymore — they’re a loop you can optimize.

    Here’s a simple breakdown of how indie app marketers can use ASA to enhance ASO:

    ✅ Target specific keywords with Search Ads.
    ✅ Analyze which keywords drive installs and conversions.
    ✅ Update your App Store metadata (title, subtitle, keyword field) to include high-performing keywords.
    ✅ Watch organic rankings rise for those keywords thanks to demonstrated relevance.

    Pro Tip:
    Not every keyword you think will work actually performs well. Use Search Ads to validate before you spend months chasing the wrong terms organically.

    The Truth About Video Previews: Do They Really Boost Conversions?

    Video previews can be a massive asset — but only when used wisely. The data shows:

    • Essential for games: Gameplay videos can boost conversion rates by up to 30% after autoplay became a standard on iOS.

    • Mixed results for apps: Some fitness apps tested videos against screenshots and found no improvement — proving that videos aren’t universally better.

    • Testing is crucial: Even if a competitor has great results with a video, test it yourself. Different apps have different audiences!

    When to definitely use a video preview:

    • If you’re marketing a game (especially premium/paid games).

    • If your app is complex and needs a quick visual walkthrough to explain the value.

    When videos might not help much:

    • Simple tools (e.g., calculators, note apps).

    • Apps where a screenshot easily conveys the function.

    Actionable Tips for Indie App Marketers

    If you’re serious about driving sustainable growth, here’s your quick checklist:

    ✅ Focus on ASO first: Optimize your screenshots, title, and keywords for maximum relevance.
    ✅ Run targeted Apple Search Ads campaigns: Use both exact match and discovery campaigns to find hidden keyword opportunities.
    ✅ Monitor and optimize conversion rates: Use App Store Connect data to track how well your app page turns visitors into users.
    ✅ Test video previews carefully: Especially for games or complex apps, but always validate with real data.
    ✅ Iterate and learn fast: Even small tweaks (like new screenshots or different keywords) can lead to big improvements over time.

    Conclusion: Play the Long Game with ASA, ASO, and Creative Testing

    There’s no “one-size-fits-all” playbook for App Store success — but one truth is clear: Everything you do must work together.

    By blending smart Search Ads strategies, strong App Store Optimization, and thoughtful use of video previews, you can drive higher-quality downloads while keeping your costs low.

    Final Reminder:
    Growth isn’t just about spending more. It’s about spending smarter — testing faster, optimizing based on real data, and always putting the user experience first.

    Ready to scale your indie app like the pros?
    👉 Start testing your keywords today with Search Ads and watch how your organic downloads soar!

  • Why Your Apple Search Ads Installs Don’t Match Your MMP Data

    If you’ve ever scratched your head wondering why your Apple Search Ads installs don’t line up with your MMP (Mobile Measurement Partner) data, you’re not alone.

    In a recent video, Shamanth Rao, CEO of user acquisition agency RocketShip HQ, breaks down the key reasons behind this discrepancy—and more importantly, how to calculate your true ROI from Apple Search Ads.

    Whether you’re spending $500 or $50,000 on paid acquisition, these insights are critical for every indie app marketer who wants accurate data and optimized ad spend.

    📉 Why the Discrepancy Between Apple Search Ads and MMP Data?

    Here are the 4 main reasons Apple Search Ads conversion numbers tend to be higher than what your MMP reports:

    1. Different Install Definitions

    • Apple reports a download as a conversion.

    • MMPs report only after the first open—a key distinction that makes Apple look more generous.

    2. No Deduplication by Apple

    • MMPs deduplicate installs across ad networks.

    • Apple does not. If a user clicked both a Facebook ad and an Apple Search Ad, only the MMP will assign it to one (typically the last touch), while Apple still claims the conversion.

    3. Redownloads Count on Apple

    • Apple includes redownloads and reinstalls.

    • MMPs typically exclude these, focusing only on new user acquisition.

    4. Limit Ad Tracking (LAT)

    • This is the real game-changer.

    • Users who opt into LAT (Limit Ad Tracking) can’t be tracked by MMPs.

    • Apple still sees them and reports them—your MMP misses them entirely, tagging them as “organic” even if they came from paid ads.

    🎯 Why LAT Is the #1 Reason Your ROI Looks Lower Than It Should

    Limit Ad Tracking (LAT) effectively hides a big chunk of your paid users from your MMP. These users:

    • Click your Apple Search Ad

    • Install the app

    • But show up as organic traffic in your MMP

    This skews your metrics and drastically under-reports your ROI.

    📊 How to Adjust for LAT and Accurately Calculate ROAS

    To get a truer picture of your actual performance, here’s how Shamanth suggests correcting for LAT:

    ✅ Step-by-Step Breakdown:

    1. Export Apple Search Ads data

      • Note the number of installs with LAT on vs off

    2. Calculate the Ratio

      • If LAT-on and LAT-off installs are close to 1:1, that means half your conversions are invisible to your MMP

    3. Adjust Your Metrics Accordingly
      Use this formula to get the true picture:

       

      Metric Calculation
      Adjusted Installs MMP installs × 2
      Adjusted Revenue MMP revenue × 2
      Adjusted CPI Total Spend / Adjusted Installs
      Adjusted ROAS Adjusted Revenue / Spend

    4. Benchmark Your D7 ROAS

      • With proper adjustment, your Day 7 ROAS can double, drastically shifting the economics of your campaigns

    💡 Key Takeaways for Indie App Marketers

    • Don’t blindly trust MMP data for Apple Search Ads performance—it undercounts your real installs due to LAT.

    • Apple Search Ads will always look inflated compared to MMPs. That doesn’t mean Apple is wrong; it just plays by a different set of tracking rules.

    • Adjust for LAT manually using Shamanth’s ratio method to get closer to the truth.

    • This simple calculation can help you rescue undervalued campaigns and reallocate budget more effectively.

    📌 Final Thoughts

    If you’re running Apple Search Ads, your true ROI may be much higher than what your dashboard shows. LAT is the silent killer of your attribution accuracy—but with the right calculations, you can bring clarity back to your data.

    This is especially important for indie developers who live and die by capital efficiency.

    👉 Looking for expert help with Apple Search Ads or mobile user acquisition?
    Check out RocketShip HQ or subscribe to their YouTube channel for more hands-on, data-driven growth tips.

    Sponsors

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    Pollen VC is the market leader in capital-efficient funding for mobile app developers and digital publishers. They provide lines of credit to app publishers allowing them to unlock their unpaid revenues and eliminate payout delays of up to 60+ days by connecting to their app store and ad network platforms.

  • Apple iOS 13: Out-of-Mind Features That You Need To Know

    One of the best things that can ever happen when you are an Apple iPhone user is a new iOS update. You might already be aware of the iOS 13 beta version, said to have path-breaking features which include a tool that blocks unknown calls like Truecaller, a dedicated dark mode, gesture-based QuickPath keyboard, and exclusive photo editing tools.

    Some of the other obvious things that are updated include new map tools that provide comprehensive security like Sign in with Apple and the ability to customize Memoji avatars. 

    Apple’s iOS 13 update directly competes with Google’s Android Q by being the most robust, private, and user-friendly OS. We have enumerated some features which are going to be in Apple iOS13 but Apple might announce even more mind-boggling features with the announcement of the iPhone 11. So, expect more surprises to make your lives even better come September this year.

    Updates like these can also be beneficial to app developers. Hire talented iPhone app developers who can develop ingenious iOS apps by taking advantage of this trend or integrate these features into their apps. 

    Let’s talk about some of the out-of-mind features of Apple iOS that you will be surprised to know.

    Battery Charging

    If you are someone who routinely charges your battery to full and still keeps it on the charger for an extended period, it can have a damaging effect on your battery as the time goes by. iOS 13 will have a new option that will help in prolonging the battery life of your device. How? By learning your charging habits and preventing your battery from immediately charging to 100%.

    If you usually charge overnight while sleeping, this optimized battery charging feature will enable your iPhone battery to remain up to 80% most of the night and finish the rest of the 20% right before your alarm goes off. You can use this feature by following this path: Settings > Battery > Battery Health. 

    iMessage Search 

    In the earlier iOS updates, searching for past messages in iMessage was always a horrible experience. This will change for good in this update as you can now search for a single word or phrase, and get instant results. To utilize it, simply open the Messages app, swipe down to open the same search field and type…and you are good to go!

    Voice Search 

    Whenever you see a search bar in Apple’s apps, a microphone can now be found on the far-right side. Simply tap on the icon as this is a way to enter your search query in the form of voice. This feature is available on apps like Settings, Messages, Mails, and the Today View.

    Share Photos With or Without Location Information

    With the help of this feature, you can opt-out of location sharing from your phone even before sharing it from the Photos app. It is possible to leave the picture geotagged and view where it was captured but now, when you share your message across email, social media, or messages, it is possible to keep your location information hidden. 

    To utilize this feature, opt for the photo (or photos) that you wish to share in your Photos app. Simply click on “Options” located at the topmost section of the screen. Turn off “Location” which can be found under the section labeled “include”.

    A Brand New Volume Indicator

    There used to be an irritating popup i.e., an indicator that used to come up on your screen whenever you adjust the volume while watching a video or listening to your favorite music. In iOS 13, this indicator has become minuscule. On top of that, it even slides in from the side of your screen so, the next time you adjust the volume, you will see it shrink down to a short line. All this is done while hiding so that you find the right volume level.

    Dual Sim Support for iMessage and Facetime

    If you are an international traveler, you will now be able to use two SIM cards for iMessage and Facetime. All this has become possible after the launch of the iPhone XS. This feature is quite handy for those who use separate phones for personal things and work. In the earlier iOS versions, it was not possible for users to use the dual sim for iMessage and Facetime as it only supported a single sim.

    Delete Apps from the Update Screen

    For those apps which you are no longer going to use, you will now be able to find and uninstall it easily. In the earlier iOS updates, it was challenging finding apps on the home screen, which made it hard to uninstall them. 

    After the iOS 13 updates, if you find any app that you no longer use in the updates list, simply swift left across the listing and then tap to delete. 

    Announce Messages with Siri 

    In case you bought Airpods or Powerbeats Pro earbuds, you will see that Siri can now read incoming messages without any intervention. It is even possible to reply to a message by merely talking after Siri has read it. 

    The first time you use either of your earbuds on iOS 13, it will ask you to turn on Announce Messages with Siri. You can customize this feature by following this path: Settings > Notifications > Announce Messages with Siri. Then you will see options to select if you want to receive notifications for all your contacts, recent or your favorites.

    A Mouse to Take Control of your iPhone

    With the iOS 13 update, Apple has given the ability to all the Apple users to use a mouse to navigate your phone. It is even possible to assign shortcuts for specific tasks like going back to the home screen in the settings menu. 

    To connect a mouse to your iPhone, follow this path: Settings > Assessibility > Touch > Assistive Touch (Turn it on) > Pointing Devices.

    Conclusion

    These are some of the awesome features in store for everyone in the yet-to-be-released Apple iOS 13. If you wish to take advantage of these features by integrating them into an iPhone app, you can tap iPhone app development services from a professional iPhone app development company today!

    If you wish to install the iOS 13 public beta version, click here. If you wish to go back to iOS 12, click here.

     

  • How to Supercharge Your ASO and Apple Search Ads Strategy

    App marketers, listen up.
    If you want to rank higher, pay less for installs, and boost your organic growth, it’s time to rethink how you approach ASO (App Store Optimization) and Apple Search Ads — not separately, but together.

    At the App Masters Virtual Summit, Steve P. Young and Thomas Kriebernegg, CEO of App Radar, dropped a ton of actionable advice on how to align your app marketing strategy for maximum impact. Here’s a breakdown you can actually use to level up your indie app growth.

    Why Relevance is the #1 Rule of App Store Optimization

    When it comes to ASO and Apple Search Ads, relevance rules everything.

    “The biggest mistake new app marketers make is trying to rank for keywords that aren’t truly relevant to their app,” said Thomas.

    ✅ Focus on finding highly relevant keywords for your app or game — not just the most popular ones.
    ✅ Spy on your competitors: see which keywords they target, and analyze where they spend most of their ad budget.
    ✅ Don’t blindly copy big players: if your app is new or smaller, trying to rank for massive keywords like “fitness” won’t move the needle.

    Instead, find your niche and dominate there.

    How Apple Search Ads and ASO Work Together (and Why You Need Both)

    Many indie developers ask: “Can Apple Search Ads improve my organic rankings?”

    The answer? Sometimes — and when done right, absolutely.

    Here’s how:

    • Run discovery campaigns with broad match targeting to find out which keywords drive real traffic (and ideally, real revenue).

    • Launch exact match campaigns for high-converting keywords. This lets you control bids tightly and ensure you’re only paying for quality traffic.

    • Align your ASO keyword field with the same keywords you’re running ads on. This sends strong relevancy signals to Apple’s ranking algorithm.

    🚀 Pro Tip:
    When your app drives installs via Search Ads on a keyword, Apple sees it as a “high-performing” keyword for your app — making it more likely you’ll climb organically for the same term.

    Don’t Sleep on Your App Store Listing (Seriously)

    Even if you master keywords and ads, a weak App Store listing will kill your conversion rates.

    If your screenshots look like they were designed by an intern on day one, you’re throwing money away.

    🔥 Here’s what to fix:

    • Polish your screenshots: highlight features, benefits, and show off a clean UI.

    • Test preview videos: Games almost always benefit from videos. For apps, it depends — test it yourself.

    • Focus on design quality: A bad design isn’t just ugly — it destroys trust and kills conversions.

    👉 Remember: you’re not just competing against other apps.
    You’re competing against everything for users’ attention.

    Tactical Blueprint: How to Find Winning Keywords with Apple Search Ads

    Want a simple, repeatable process? Here’s a battle-tested method:

    1. Launch Discovery Campaigns
      Use broad match and Search Match to let Apple find keywords for you.

    2. Identify Top Performers
      Look for keywords that generate installs (and revenue if you can track it with MMPs like AppsFlyer).

    3. Create Exact Match Campaigns
      Target those winning keywords directly with exact match — tighten your bids and control your spend.

    4. Update Your ASO Strategy
      Incorporate top-performing keywords into your app title, subtitle, and keyword field to strengthen organic rankings.

    5. Test and Optimize Regularly
      Markets change. Users evolve. Keep testing your creatives, keywords, and bid strategies.

    Conclusion: It’s Time to Harmonize ASO + Apple Search Ads

    If you’re serious about growing your app in today’s saturated market, you can’t afford to treat ASO and paid ads like separate efforts.
    The real magic happens when you combine them.

    • Target relevant keywords

    • Test aggressively with Search Ads

    • Update your organic metadata based on ad learnings

    • Polish your App Store presence like your business depends on it (because it does)

    Action Step:
    Pick 3 keywords you want to rank for.
    Launch a small Apple Search Ads campaign TODAY.
    Start tracking which keywords drive results — and build your ASO strategy around those winners.

    Liked this guide?
    Make sure to check out more videos from App Masters for real, no-fluff advice.
    And if you need help speeding up your ASO + Search Ads strategy, don’t forget to check out App Radar — a powerhouse for indie app marketers.

    Sponsors

    App Radar will save you time with their unified and connected ASO workflow and save you money with their Apple Search Ads team who will optimize your campaigns and increase your ROAS. See why companies like Kolibri Games, Tivola Games, NerByte & iTranslate rely on their platform and expertise to drive organic installs from app stores, to their apps and games.

    Let Adjust unify all your marketing activities into one powerful platform, and give you the insights that you need to scale your business. Adjust provides 100% accurate mobile app tracking so you can make better informed marketing decisions. See why more than 25,000 apps have implemented Adjust’s solutions.

     

  • 5 Proven App Install Ad Strategies to Boost Downloads and Lower CPI

    Introduction

    In the competitive world of mobile apps, standing out requires more than just a great product. Effective advertising is key to driving installs and reducing your cost per install (CPI). Drawing inspiration from successful campaigns by top apps, here are five proven strategies to enhance your app install ads.

    1. Incentivize with Coupon Codes

    Offering a compelling incentive can significantly boost your ad’s effectiveness. For instance, Postmates utilized a $100 delivery credit code in their Apple Search Ads, prominently displaying the offer in the second screenshot. This approach not only grabs attention but also provides immediate value, encouraging users to install the app.

    2. Keep Messaging Clear and Concise

    In today’s fast-paced digital environment, clarity is crucial. Sideline’s ad exemplifies this with the straightforward tagline: “Two numbers, one phone.” This succinct message quickly communicates the app’s core benefit, making it easier for users to understand and act upon.

    3. Leverage Social Proof

    Social proof can significantly influence user behavior. Robokiller effectively showcased their media coverage and user engagement by highlighting over 46,000 likes and 9,000 retweets. Incorporating such endorsements in your ads can build trust and prompt potential users to take action.

    4. Demonstrate App Functionality Visually

    Visual demonstrations can effectively convey your app’s value proposition. Albert’s ad, for example, simulates a text conversation to showcase its AI-driven financial assistance. Similarly, playable ads for games allow users to experience gameplay firsthand, increasing the likelihood of installation.

    5. Utilize a Strong Call-to-Action (CTA)

    A clear and compelling CTA guides users toward the desired action. Using direct prompts like “Install” rather than vague alternatives ensures users know exactly what to expect, thereby increasing conversion rates.

    Conclusion

    Implementing these strategies can significantly enhance the performance of your app install ads. By offering incentives, maintaining clear messaging, leveraging social proof, visually demonstrating functionality, and utilizing strong CTAs, you can drive more installs and reduce your CPI.

    For a deeper dive into successful app install ad examples, refer to CleverTap’s comprehensive guide: 20 App Install Ads That Are Winning The User Acquisition Game.CleverTap

    Note: The examples and strategies discussed are inspired by successful campaigns from various apps, as highlighted in industry analyses.

    Sponsor

    App Radar will save you time with their unified and connected ASO workflow and save you money with their Apple Search Ads team who will optimize your campaigns and increase your ROAS. See why companies like Kolibri Games, Tivola Games, NerByte & iTranslate rely on their platform and expertise to drive organic installs from app stores, to their apps and games.

    Let Adjust unify all your marketing activities into one powerful platform, and give you the insights that you need to scale your business. Adjust provides 100% accurate mobile app tracking so you can make better informed marketing decisions. See why more than 25,000 apps have implemented Adjust’s solutions.

    Show Notes

    I am going to share to you some examples of app install ads that are crushing it. You can leverage on the winning elements of a great app install ad to lower your CPIs and dramatically improve your conversations.

    Here are my top 4 tips:

    Incentivize with a coupon code – When you are using ads, you can leverage on your screenshots by including a coupon code in one of them. This can get people to install your app and convert to become a customer.

    Keep ad copy and visuals simple – convey a clear proposition on what the app does using super simple messaging. People have short attention spans so just hit them with a one-two punch!

    Use social proof – leverage press coverages and other social proof by placing them everywhere that you possibly can. I have seen apps which had doubled their downloads just by placing social proof in their screenshots.

    Let visuals inform functionality – if you have a game, using a playable ad is an example of this. People should be able to experience your app without having to download it.

    Show Mentions

    14 App Install Ads That Are Winning The User Acquisition Game

  • How This Indie Developer Grew His App Business with Apple Search Ads

    Breaking into the app business as an indie developer can feel like an uphill battle — but it doesn’t have to be.
    In our latest App Masters Virtual Summit, we sat down with Huxley Seidman, CEO and founder of Kite Metrics, to uncover exactly how he’s grown his app business using Apple Search Ads — and how you can replicate his success.

    In this post, you’ll learn:

    • How to discover winning keywords

    • How to optimize your Apple Search Ads campaigns

    • How to boost subscriptions with smarter strategies

    • Actionable tips indie developers can start using today

    Let’s dive right in!

    Meet Huxley Seidman: From Indie Developer to Apple Search Ads Pro

    Huxley Seidman didn’t just build successful apps — he built a powerful tool to help indie developers track ROI per keyword in Apple Search Ads.
    Kite Metrics started as an internal solution but has evolved into a full-fledged Apple Search Ads management platform, making campaign management faster, smarter, and more profitable.

    Step 1: Discover Winning Keywords with Smart Discovery Campaigns

    When it comes to Apple Search Ads, keyword discovery is everything.
    Here’s Huxley’s go-to method:

    • Set up a Discovery Campaign: Use Apple’s “search match” feature to let Apple automatically suggest keywords related to your app.

    • Seed with Broad Match Keywords: Add a few broad keywords (e.g., “deep sleep,” “white noise”) to guide Apple’s suggestions.

    • Review New Search Terms: Dive into the search terms report and handpick the keywords that truly match your app’s audience.

    • Add Exact Match Campaigns: Promote winning keywords to exact match campaigns for full control.

    ✅ Pro Tip: Using a tool like Kite Metrics can automate keyword discovery, making it a lot easier to sort, add, or discard keywords without toggling endlessly between Apple Search Ads screens.

    Step 2: Master Your Budget and Bidding Strategy

    Once you’ve found winning keywords, setting the right budget is crucial.

    • Start with a CPA Goal: Set a Cost Per Acquisition (CPA) goal for your new keywords.

    • Analyze Tap and Conversion Rates: Kite Metrics suggests a bid based on real data, helping you avoid overspending.

    • Negative Keyword Management: Remove irrelevant keywords to keep your discovery campaigns clean and efficient.

    🎯 Key Takeaway: Target only the keywords that convert — and don’t waste budget bidding on deadweight terms.

    Step 3: Boost Subscriptions with Immediate (but Respectful) Offers

    Driving installs is one thing. Turning users into subscribers is the real challenge.

    Here’s Huxley’s proven subscription strategy:

    • Present the Offer Immediately: Show users that there’s a free and a paid portion of the app right after they download.

    • Set Clear Expectations: Be transparent about what’s free and what’s premium.

    • Provide Real Value for Free: Give users plenty of features without forcing them to pay immediately.

    • Stay Top of Mind: Keep upgrade opportunities visible, but never pushy.

    📈 Fun Fact: Many users became paying subscribers after three to four months of consistent free usage — proving that patience pays off.

    Actionable Tips for Indie Developers Using Apple Search Ads

    Here’s how you can implement Huxley’s strategies today:

    • Launch a Discovery Campaign today if you haven’t already.

    • Invest time in keyword management: Promote high-performers, discard underachievers.

    • Track ROI per keyword: Don’t rely on guesswork — use Kite Metrics or similar tools.

    • Offer value before the paywall: Build trust before asking users to pay.

    • Stay consistent: Growing an app business is a marathon, not a sprint.

    Conclusion: Apple Search Ads Are a Game-Changer for Indie Apps

    Huxley’s story proves that indie app developers can compete and win — if they play smart.

    By mastering keyword discovery, optimizing campaigns, and focusing on value-driven subscriptions, you can drive real, sustainable growth for your app.

    Ready to level up your Apple Search Ads game?
    👉 Check out Kite Metrics and start making every keyword count.

    Sponsor

    App Radar is changing how App Store Optimization is done. The tool helps developers get their apps and mobile games discovered in the app stores and manages your entire ASO workflow through one simple interface. Not only that, once your ASO is fixed, App Radar will also help you set up optimized Apple Search Ads to help you scale up your User Acquisition results.

    Industry-leading companies like Kolibri Games, Tivola Games, NerByte & iTranslate rely on their platform and expertise to drive organic installs from app stores, to their apps and games.

    To preview the tool, you can start a free trial here.