Launching in a new country is one of the fastest ways to grow downloads, but only if people there can find your app. A translated store listing is a start. A localized one, built around how people in that market actually search, is what moves rankings.
1. Research keywords in the local language
Do not simply translate your English keywords. People in each market describe the same need in different words. Check search suggestions in the local App Store and Google Play, and look at the words top competitors use.
2. Rewrite the metadata
- App Store: app name, subtitle and the hidden keyword field.
- Google Play: title, short description and full description.
- Put the most important keyword in the name or title, where it carries the most weight.
3. Localize the screenshots
Screenshots sell the download. Translate the captions, but also check that the examples, currency, names and imagery feel local. A finance app showing dollars in a euro market looks out of place.
4. Check the details people notice
- Prices and in-app purchase names are in the local currency and language.
- Your app’s first screens are translated, not only the store page.
- Reviews are answered in the local language.
5. Test and update
Use Apple’s product page optimization and Google Play store listing experiments to test icons and screenshots. Review keyword rankings every month and refresh the metadata when new search terms appear.
Good ASO lowers the cost of every paid install, because more of the people who see your store page decide to download.
Planning a launch in a new country? Our app store optimization team can build your keyword map and store listing.
