Many users were waiting for new and trendy features like customized emoji (memojis) and new Siri in iOS 13. Others are excited about the promise of stronger privacy and faster performance.
For app developers and marketing managers, the crucial question appears, ‘How will this iOS 13 affect ASO?’
Changes in iOS 13 for ASO:
Reduction in App Size & Download Limits
Enhanced speed and better performance are at the focus of iOS 13. At WWDC19 it was declared that app downloads will be decreased by 50% and their updates by 60% – making app downloads twice as fast.
This is a huge win that might prompt an improvement in conversion rates and develop the overall user experience.
Apple had also initially improved the cellular download limit to 200MB per app but recently decided to withdraw the restriction altogether. This not only makes it more accessible to download larger apps on-the-go – it gives users more control over downloads.
Under the new preference in iTunes & App Store ‘App Downloads,’ users can decide to bypass the limitations or put notifications in place if a download is larger than 200MB.
Push for Voice Dictation
The Apple Watch will be getting its app store and users will be able to download apps immediately on their watch. Searches on the Apple Watch app store will essentially be through voice dictation or via Siri.
The new Siri will have more multi-action commands and more combination with apps with built-in shortcuts. In the app store, the option for voice dictation will be presented in the search tab itself.
App Store Changes:
The layout of Search Page
Minor tweaks like the rounded corners in screenshots can be seen – but the actual UI updates that will affect user engagement are on the search page. In the search tab itself, there’s more of a focus on games as the text is ‘games, apps, stories and more’ instead of simply ‘app store.’
Voice dictation and emoji icons will also have their place to the right and left of the keyboard, making it more comfortable for users to use emojis in their searches. When updating a title and subtitle, this will be something to keep in mind.
There was also an update that supports design. Earlier, when searching for an app, trending app titles were suggested under the search tab. With iOS 13, trending app icons will be added under the search tab making it very easy to download apps that might draw attention. The app icon could then play an important role in getting app impressions.
The search page will work as another platform for the browsing channel “Today.” If your app is trending – this will surely encourage high conversion rates. If your app is yet young, however, it forms yet another barrier to an app’s exposure.
Some Hidden Updates
The new iOS 13 has made it more difficult for users to be informed about updates and release notes. The update icon at the bottom of the app store will be replaced with Apple’s new Arcade. This is in line with its focus on games and stories.
Their new arcade promises over 100+ new games with easy game subscription service. Though this is excellent for game developers, app developers will need to find productive ways to keep updates and release notes noticeably.
