For crypto apps, visibility is everything. But when you add your app to the Google Play store, you’re joining millions of others.
You need a way to stand out. That’s where Google Play Optimization comes in.
Think of it as SEO for Google Play.
When people search for what you offer, you want to be the first new app they find.
The right strategy can put your crypto app in front of an audience that’s ready to download. Let’s break down how to make Google Play work for your Web3 brand.
What is Google Play Store Optimization?
Google Play Store optimization is essentially SEO for the Google Play store. But more specifically, it refers to how you structure app listing content.
The goal is to help your audience find your app and download it.
You might also hear this called App Store Optimization (ASO). Same thing!
Google Play Store Ranking Factors You Should Know
The Google Play store uses an algorithm to rank app recommendations based on user queries.
Like SEO, this type of optimization involves several ranking factors, including:
- Keywords in the title and description
- Short and long descriptions
- User reviews
- App icon
- Metadata
- Developer name
The algorithm also takes into account things like the number of downloads, download speed, app performance, and in-app engagement (e.g., in-app purchases).
We’ll dig into these and how to leverage them.
Why is App Store Optimization for Google Essential for Web3 Brands?
The Google Play Store is massive.
Your app is among 1.68+ million other apps. And while they’re not all direct competition, the sheer number of apps available can make visibility your greatest challenge.
App store optimization is your ticket to higher search positions.
When users search for terms like “crypto wallet” or “decentralized finance,” brands that have invested in ASO are more likely to appear in results before brands that have not.
It’s not just about visibility; it’s also about credibility.
Trust can be a major hurdle for crypto apps, especially new companies that have very few users or reviews. A well-optimized app can change the game, helping to drive growth and earn more reviews.
ASO and SEO are like two sides of the same coin.
SEO works its magic on search engines, while ASO is more specific to app stores like Google Play. Combining ASO and SEO supports better traditional search engine rankings by helping you amplify your digital presence.
Remember, your Google Play Store app can appear in Google results too, giving users more ways to discover you.
You never know how users will find you first, so investing in both SEO and ASO allows you to create a seamless user journey that will help you boost conversion rates.
App Store Optimization for Google Play: 6 Best Practices
If you’re launching a crypto app, you need to do more than get listed in the Google Play Store. Use these best practices as starting points for your app store optimization plan.
1. Know Google Play Store’s Rules about Crypto Apps
NFTs, blockchain games, and other crypto apps have had to jump through countless hurdles to tap into the Google Play market.
The rules are constantly changing for Web3 brands, which means you may have extra considerations compared to non-Web3 apps. For example, disclosing that a game uses blockchain technology.
Play by the rules, and you’ll have a better chance of reaching your audience.
2. Use keywords in your title and description.
Keywords are the main way users find content, which is why they carry so much weight with algorithms. When you include relevant keywords, your app will appear to users searching for what you offer.
The title is arguably the most important. It’s the first thing users see and sets the expectations for your app.
You also want Google Play to associate your app with the keyword you’ve chosen. You have up to 30 characters to craft your title, so use them wisely.
3. Write a clear, trustworthy description.
Crypto users value transparency. Use this as an opportunity to share exactly what you do and what’s in it for your users.
- The short description should describe what your app does and give quick information.
- The long description can go into more detail about what the app does, how it works, who it’s for, and how it benefits users.
Prioritize clarity and real value. Your goal is to set expectations, not sound trendy.
4. Include high-quality screenshots and videos.
Show, don’t just tell. Include UX/UI screenshots, transaction flows, or staking dashboards in your app listing. Add a walkthrough video to boost engagement, too – apps with video previews tend to see higher conversions.
5. A/B test various elements of your listing.
Titles, descriptions, images, the main icon, and calls to action can all be tested and tweaked. Never think your app listing is the best it can be until you have the data to prove it.
It’s best to test one element at a time so you’ll know without a doubt which change is driving your results.
6. Keep your app store listing fresh.
Actively updating your listing shows Google you’re paying attention and care about your users’ experience. A well-maintained app is gold for ASO because it gives algorithms a reason to look your way (which helps you stay on the radar).
Reach Out If You Need Help With App Store Optimization (ASO) for Your Crypto App
ASO is a smaller slice of the bigger SEO pie. When done correctly, it can help you capitalize on organic growth and rely less on paid ads.
Need help getting your app listing ready for the Google Play store? Reach out to Rise Up Media, where we specialize in content marketing for Web3 brands.
FAQs
How do I optimize for the Google Play Store?
Apply basic SEO principles to your Google Play listing, including keyword inclusion, a clear description, trust signals like user reviews and frequent updates, and compelling screenshots and videos.
