In today's world users eventually delete 80-90 percent of their apps, and one fifth of them are opened just once. For your app to stand out in the crowd and retain your audience, there are several key factors to consider.
When new apps launch, they compete on two levels for downloads. The first level is against other apps in the same category with similar features. The second level is against all apps, no matter the category, no matter the features. The best way to stand out is to offer an experience that the user can't get anywhere else.
Audience
To offer a unique experience within your app, one of the first steps is to do research to see what your audience wants and need. The most successful app makers understand this and offer their audience specific solutions. The next step is to identify the weaknesses of other apps on the market in your category. Whether you're looking to replace a native app or disrupt a popular app, your app's experience will need to trump the others. More importantly, people want a personalized experience wherever they go.
Features
A very common misconception with trying to make an app stand out is that the app needs many innovative features. While innovation is an important goal, focusing on being completely new can lead to features that consumers don't want or need, or are confusing to use. Instead, make the app simple while still offering useful features. Create a frictionless experience for the user by making it fun and intuitive to use your app.
Graphics
One of the most important aspects of your app is having engaging graphics. Graphics, just like a description have to be compelling. Choosing the right colors for your graphics is important, not only for brand considerations, but because colors are known to influence mood. Make sure that the color scheme used in your app conveys the mood you want to set.
App Listing
The first sentence in the app's description should quickly and clearly communicate what your app does and entice readers to want to learn more. If you have industry credentials or have produced a great app before, be sure to mention it. For example, “Brought to you from the creators of Facebook, Instagram lets you share photos with anyone.” After users click on the more tab, they should get an in depth explanation of the app's features and purpose. Make sure to include good reviews or positive comments from news outlets.
In addition, targeted keywords are important for App Store Optimization (or the ability to be found by relevant users in the store). Make sure to keep the description organized and simple, provide in-app screenshots, and build prompts to collect user reviews.
Feedback
Make sure to ask for feedback from your users and pay attention to what's being said. Requesting feedback will not only engage users, it will enable you as the developer to know what needs to be added or fixed to make the app better.
