App Store Optimization (ASO): Complete 2025 Guide

Rank higher and convert more organic visitors into installs.

By Lisa Morgan December 2024 20 min read

We rebuilt an app's ASO strategy over six months, going from ranking #87 for our main keyword to #4. Organic installs increased 340%. ASO is far more nuanced than most realize.

65%
Installs from Search
50%
See First 2 Screenshots
4.0+
Rating Threshold

Keyword Strategy

Keywords are ASO's foundation. iOS uses a hidden 100-character field; Google indexes your description.

Long-Tail Strategy

"Fitness app" has brutal competition. "HIIT workout timer" has fewer searches but higher intent and achievable rankings. A portfolio of long-tail keywords often outperforms head terms.

Visual Optimization

Screenshots often matter more than text. First two screenshots are critical—50%+ never scroll. Include benefit-driven captions.

Ratings Impact

Apps below 4.0 see significant conversion drops. Time review prompts well—ask after positive experiences.

Track Organic Performance

ClicksFlyer helps you see organic trends alongside paid performance and measure ASO ROI.