Developers get a better shot at App Store spotlight

Apple has rolled out “Featuring Nominations” within App Store Connect, giving developers a better shot at the App Store spotlight.

In an update on Apple’s developer site, the company wrote:

“Share your app or game’s upcoming content and enhancements for App Store featuring consideration with new Featuring Nominations in App Store Connect. Submit a nomination to tell our team about a new launch, in-app content, or added functionality. If you’re featured in select placements on the Today tab, you’ll also receive a notification via the App Store Connect app.

In addition, you can promote your app or game’s biggest moments — such as an app launch, new version, or select featuring placements on the App Store — with readymade marketing assets. Use the App Store Connect app to generate Apple-designed assets and share them to your social media channels. Include the provided link alongside your assets so people can easily download your app or game on the App Store.”

Previously, the selection for featuring in prominent app showcases relied entirely on Apple’s App Store editorial team. This new system allows developers to actively nominate their apps, updates, or new features for consideration, bypassing the wait and uncertainty of relying solely on editorial recognition.

Developers can access the nominations dashboard within App Store Connect, where they can submit individual app or game features for consideration. Larger publishers with multiple releases now also have the option to upload spreadsheets for bulk nominations. 

Apple encourages developers to choose memorable names for their nominations, clearly outlining the focus of the update or new content. A detailed text description should accompany the name, providing specific details about the update and its anticipated launch date.

Furthermore, a “Helpful Details” section allows developers to share additional context, such as the app’s development story, unique features, accessibility improvements, or innovative use of developer tools. This added layer provides valuable insight into the app and its merits for the App Store editorial team.

Once an app is selected for featuring, developers will receive a notification within App Store Connect. This notification links to a dedicated page where they can access promotional assets designed to maximise the impact of their featured status. These assets empower developers to quickly share the news across social media platforms and other marketing channels, driving traffic to their apps.

Apple says that it also plans to provide marketing materials for other key moments in an app’s lifecycle, such as initial launches or major updates, ensuring continuous support for developer success.

You can learn more about nominating your app on Apple’s website here.

(Photo by Greyson Joralemon)

See also: App Store policies spark Patreon backlash

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Tags: app store, apple, coding, development, ios, mobile, programming