If your app isn’t ranking high on the App Store, it’s practically invisible. With over 1.96 million apps on iOS and 3.5 million on Android, users rarely scroll past the top 10 search results. The good news? You don’t need a full app redesign or a massive ad budget to climb the ranks—you just need smarter App Store Optimization (ASO).
At SEM Nexus, we’ve helped countless apps jump from page 5 to the top 5—and we’re sharing the 7 proven ASO fixes you can make today to start seeing results fast.
1. Optimize Your App Title with Strategic Keywords
Your app title is the single most important ASO element. It’s weighted heavily by the App Store algorithm, and it’s the first thing users see.
What to do:
Include 1–2 high-volume keywords in your app title, without making it unreadable.
Use keyword tools like Sensor Tower, Mobile Action, or AppTweak to find the best terms.
Example:
Instead of “FitBuddy,” use:
“FitBuddy: Daily Workout Planner”
2. Rework Your Subtitle or Short Description (Don’t Waste It!)
The subtitle (iOS) or short description (Android) is your second most valuable piece of real estate. It tells both users and algorithms what your app actually does.
Quick fix:
Make it benefits-driven, not feature-dumped.
Insert a secondary keyword you couldn’t fit in the title.
Example:
“Track workouts, hit fitness goals, and stay consistent—daily.”
3. Upgrade Your App Screenshots with Clear, Compelling Captions
Screenshots aren’t just for show—they’re conversion tools. Users browse them quickly to decide whether to download.
Here’s what converts:
Add bold, benefit-driven text overlays on each image.
Show the experience, not just the UI (e.g., “Track your fasting,” “Hit 10k steps daily”).
Pro tip: A/B test screenshots with tools like SplitMetrics or StoreMaven.
4. Boost Your App Ratings & Reviews (Fast)
Apps with a 4.5-star rating or higher rank significantly better. But here’s the catch—new reviews matter more than old ones.
What to do today:
Prompt happy users in-app to leave a review using Apple’s SKStoreReviewController or Android’s review prompt.
Offer a subtle incentive: “Enjoying the app? Tap here to support us.”
Avoid fake reviews—they’re easy to detect and will hurt your credibility.
5. Rewrite Your App Description for Skimmers & Algorithms
Most users won’t read your full description—but Apple and Google’s algorithms still will.
Fix it today by:
Using the first 3 lines as a pitch: who it’s for, what it solves, why it matters.
Adding a bullet-point list of benefits mid-way.
Including keywords naturally—don’t stuff them.
Example opening:
“FitBuddy helps busy people lose weight and stay motivated with science-backed routines you can do in 15 minutes a day.”
6. Localize Your Listing (Even Just One Country)
Localizing your app store listing can increase visibility by up to 200% in non-English markets—even if your app is only available in English.
Steps to take today:
Start with top growth markets: Spanish (Mexico), French, German, and Japanese.
Localize title, description, and screenshots.
Use app localization platforms like Lokalise or POEditor.
7. Track & Iterate Using ASO Tools
ASO isn’t “set it and forget it.” Rankings change weekly—your competitors are optimizing too.
Must-have tools:
AppTweak – for keyword tracking and competitor analysis
Mobile Action – for ASO score and recommendations
AppFollow – for review monitoring and response
Set a reminder to update your keywords and creative every 30 days based on performance.
Final Thoughts: Small Fixes. Big Results.
You don’t need to overhaul your entire product to rank higher on the App Store. By applying these 7 ASO fixes, you can:
Appear in more search results
Convert more views into installs
Build momentum that drives organic growth
At SEM Nexus, we specialize in App Store Optimization that drives real installs—not just impressions. Whether you’re launching a new app or trying to revive downloads, these strategies will give you the edge you need to stand out in 2025.
Ready to Dominate the App Store?
Let our ASO experts audit your app and build a keyword plan designed for growth.