Can an app increase its rank or position within the same category on Apple's AppStore or Google's PlayStore (ASO)?
Yes, an app can improve its ranking within the same category on both Apple’s App Store and Google Play Store through App Store Optimization (ASO) and strategic marketing. The ranking algorithm considers multiple factors, including downloads, keyword relevance, engagement, retention, ratings, and reviews.
Key Strategies to Increase App Ranking in the App Store & Google Play
1. Optimize Your App Title & Keywords
Use relevant, high-ranking keywords in the app title and subtitle (App Store) or title and short description (Google Play).
Research low-competition, high-search-volume keywords using ASO tools like AppTweak, Sensor Tower, MobileAction, or App Radar.
Apple allows 100-character keyword fields, while Google Play relies on metadata, descriptions, and backlinks to determine rankings.
2. Improve Download Volume & Retention
Consistent download growth improves ranking more than short-term spikes.
Focus on retention—users who keep your app installed signal value to the algorithm.
Encourage frequent engagement through push notifications, feature updates, and user rewards.
3. Increase Ratings & Reviews
Apps with 4.5+ star ratings rank higher and gain more trust from users.
Use in-app prompts at the right moment (after a positive experience) to request reviews.
Address negative feedback to improve your app’s reputation and retention.
4. Enhance Click-Through Rate (CTR) & Conversion Rate (CVR)
Optimize your app icon, screenshots, preview videos, and descriptions to increase CTR.
Write a compelling app description that highlights unique features, benefits, and social proof.
A/B test different visuals and messaging to see what drives more installs.
5. Leverage Localization for Global Reach
Localizing your app listing (title, description, keywords) into multiple languages increases downloads in different regions.
Google Play allows custom store listings per country for better targeting.
Translate app content, keywords, and UI to improve regional discoverability.
6. Regular Updates & Performance Improvements
Frequent updates indicate to app stores that the app is actively maintained.
Fixing bugs, improving load time, and adding new features boost user satisfaction and retention.
Google and Apple prioritize apps that provide a smooth user experience.
7. Drive External Traffic (Google Play SEO Advantage)
Google Play considers backlinks and website traffic when ranking apps.
Create a landing page, blog posts, and social media content to drive organic traffic.
Promote your app on Reddit, Quora, tech blogs, and niche forums.
Does Paid Advertising Improve App Rankings?
Yes, paid user acquisition (Google App Campaigns, Apple Search Ads, Meta Ads) can increase app visibility, but it should be paired with ASO for sustainable growth.
More downloads from ads can increase your ranking temporarily.
If users uninstall quickly, rankings may drop again.
Combine paid installs with organic marketing and ASO for long-term ranking improvement.
Final Thoughts
An app’s ranking can improve within the same category by focusing on ASO, user engagement, retention, and marketing strategies. Looking for expert ASO strategies? APS TeQ helps apps achieve higher rankings and increased visibility through data-driven optimization techniques.