What works in the Apple App Store doesn’t always apply in Google Play. This chart breaks down what matters most on each platform so you can optimize accordingly.

Essential Statistics

• Apple ranks apps based heavily on title, subtitle, and keyword field.
• Google relies more on short description and long description.
• Both platforms weigh installs, engagement, and reviews.
• Apple’s keyword field has no visible output—but strong ranking power. Google indexes all visible text and on-page engagement.
• Ratings and reviews impact ranking more in Google Play.
• Text placement priority differs drastically between stores.

Key Takeaways

• ASO strategies must be platform-specific. Apple rewards metadata optimization more than Google. Google emphasizes user engagement and keyword context.
• Keywords must be placed where they’re indexed on each platform.
• Reviews and installs matter across both—but are weighted differently.
• App titles need to be concise and intentional for both.
• App Store’s hidden keyword field is underused but powerful.

Actionable Insights

• Craft separate ASO plans for Apple and Google Play to match their unique ranking signals.
• Use Apple’s keyword field to target terms you can’t fit into titles or subtitles.
• A/B test long vs. short descriptions in Google Play to improve keyword coverage.
• Encourage ratings from satisfied users with in-app prompts at the right time.
• Map install sources to optimize for channels that drive ranking signals.

The App Store and Google Play speak different ASO languages. You need to be fluent in both. – Neil Patel