Understanding App Store Search Volume for App Success

In the competitive world of mobile apps, visibility is everything. With millions of apps available on the App Store, getting discovered by users is a constant challenge. One crucial metric that developers and marketers should track is App Store search volume the number of times users search for specific keywords related to an app.

What Is App Store Search Volume?

App Store search volume refers to the number of times users search for a particular keyword or phrase within the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android). High search volume for a keyword indicates strong user interest, making it a valuable target for App Store Optimization (ASO).

Why Does It Matter?

1. Indicates Demand – Keywords with high search volume represent what users are actively looking for. Ranking for these terms can drive organic traffic.

2. Guides ASO Strategy – By analyzing search volume, developers can optimize their app’s metadata (title, subtitle, keywords, and description) to align with popular queries.

3. Competitive Insights – Understanding search trends helps identify gaps where an app can outperform competitors.

4. Improves Conversion Rates – When an app appears in searches for high-volume keywords, it increases the likelihood of downloads.

How to Find App Store Search Volume Data

Unlike Google’s Keyword Planner for SEO, Apple and Google do not provide direct access to search volume data. However, several third-party ASO tools can help estimate search volume:

• App Store Connect (for Apple Search Ads) – If you run Apple Search Ads, you can see keyword popularity.

• Third-Party ASO Tools – Tools like Sensor Tower, AppRadar, MobileAction, and AppTweak provide search volume estimates.

• Competitor Analysis – Studying competitors’ keyword rankings can reveal high-volume terms they are targeting.

How to Use Search Volume for ASO

1. Target High-Volume, Low-Competition Keywords

• Prioritize keywords with strong search volume but moderate competition.

• Long-tail keywords (e.g., “fitness tracker for women”) often convert better than generic terms.

2. Optimize App Metadata

• Include high-search-volume keywords in the app title, subtitle, and keyword field (Apple) or short & long description (Google Play).

• Avoid keyword stuffing—focus on relevance.

3. Monitor Trends & Adjust Strategy

• Search trends change over time (e.g., seasonal spikes for “tax apps” in April).

• Regularly update keywords based on new search volume data.

4. Leverage Apple Search Ads (ASA)

• Bid on high-volume keywords to boost visibility while improving organic rankings.

Challenges in Tracking Search Volume

• Limited Data Transparency – Apple and Google don’t share exact search numbers.

• Regional Variations – Search volume differs by country/language.

• Algorithm Changes – App Store algorithms frequently update, affecting rankings.

App Store search volume is a critical metric for app growth. By understanding which keywords users are searching for, developers can refine their ASO strategy, improve rankings, and drive more organic installs. Using ASO tools and staying updated on keyword trends will help apps stay competitive in an ever-evolving marketplace.

For maximum impact, combine search volume insights with other ASO best practices, such as improving app ratings, screenshots, and localized descriptions. The right keyword strategy can make the difference between an app that struggles and one that thrives.