At its Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) held in June, Apple announced the introduction of a new feature called "Featuring Nominations" in App Store Connect. This option allows developers to nominate their own apps, games, and updates to be featured on the App Store. The move aims to streamline the process for developers to promote their work on Apple’s platform.
Background
Prior to this change, the App Store Editorial team would create stories about apps and their developers, as well as roundups of apps into collections that were highlighted across various sections and pages of the App Store. However, there was no formal process for requesting consideration for these featured positions, which can drive significant traffic to apps.
The New Process
To use the "Featuring Nominations" option, developers will access a nominations dashboard in App Store Connect where they can enter nominations one by one. For larger publishers, the ability to upload a spreadsheet to nominate apps or games in bulk will be useful. Apple suggests using a memorable name for the nomination that will help its App Store Editors understand what the app’s new content or feature is focused on.
Submission Requirements
In addition to the update’s name, developers should include a text description that explains the relevant details about the update and the expected publish date. In another field, "Helpful Details," developers can also add other relevant information about the submission, such as:
- The developer’s story
- How they created the app
- Key factors they want Apple to take notice of, like accessibility improvements or use of new developer tools
Benefits for Developers and Consumers
The "Featuring Nominations" option will not only make it easier for App Store Editors to curate app launches and updates but also benefit developers and consumers who are looking to discover the latest content, updates, and new releases. Featured updates could help pull consumers back into apps they may have otherwise forgotten about.
Comparison with Google Play’s Collections Feature
Google Play recently introduced its own feature called "Collections," which is designed to drive users back to apps to complete purchases, stream media, place orders, engage with social media, and more. While both features aim to enhance user experience, the "Featuring Nominations" option in App Store Connect offers a unique approach by allowing developers to nominate their own apps for featured positions.
Marketing Materials
Apple will provide marketing materials for other big moments in an app’s lifecycle, such as when it first launches or releases a new version. These materials will include a provided link that will direct consumers to download the app or game from the App Store.
Impact on Marketing and Promotional Efforts
The "Featuring Nominations" option is likely to become a key step in developers’ ongoing marketing and promotional efforts for their apps, games, and updates. By allowing developers to nominate their own apps for featured positions, Apple has created a more streamlined process for promoting new content, app enhancements, or new app launches.
Future Developments
As the "Featuring Nominations" option continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how it affects the App Store’s editorial team and developers’ marketing strategies. With this new feature, Apple has taken a significant step towards making its platform more developer-friendly and user-centric.
Conclusion
The introduction of the "Featuring Nominations" option in App Store Connect marks an exciting development for app developers and consumers alike. By allowing developers to nominate their own apps for featured positions, Apple has created a more streamlined process for promoting new content, app enhancements, or new app launches. As the feature continues to evolve, it will be fascinating to see its impact on marketing and promotional efforts.
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