1. Google Play Currently Offers More Than 3.3M Apps
Yes, the total number of Android apps on Google Play is 2.1 million at the moment, making this store an absolute market leader. Meanwhile, the Amazon AppStore, GetJar, Aptoide, and Opera Mobile Stores respectively offer around 0.4, 0.8, 0.7, and 0.3 million Android apps.
Despite the Android mobile platform being available for download on multiple stores, the selection of places to submit to is still scarce. While competition is obviously less fierce on alternate stores, the audience on Google Play is way bigger. Have a great ASO strategy in place, and submit there.
2. The Apple’s App Store Is Not the Only Place for iOS
Apple’s official App Store is still the mecca of everything related to iOS, but that certainly doesn’t mean that it’s the only place for submitting and finding great iOS apps. It currently offers 2.2 million of them, with GetJar and Appland following (not so) close behind with 0.85 and 0.13 million respectively.
If you are in iOS business, you simply cannot skip the App Store. Feel free to submit to alternative sources as well, but make sure that your app meets Apple’s requirements. We’ll discuss them in detail later on, so take another sip of coffee and keep reading.
3. Also, the App Store is Now Entirely Updated
Earlier this year, Apple has unveiled the biggest update on the App Store since its initial launching back in 2008. The changes are significant – navigation tabs now promise better discovery, and so do search results and product pages – but basic submission requirements and ASO rules remain the same.
The update was focused on gaining more control over which apps are pushed, which means that it still may affect the way your app is reviewed and ranked on the App Store. As a developer, you should definitely take some time to discover what’s new and review redesign from the user’s perspective.
4. China Mobile Market Plays a Major Role Too
In 2016, China outpaced US in terms of both iOS and App Store revenue. The app market is huge there, and it shouldn’t be overlooked. When it comes to Android app stores, MyApp, 360 Mobile Assistant, and Xiaomi App Store are in the lead, with 25.5%, 14.8%, and 11.5% of market share, respectively.
5. When in Doubt, Opt for Cross-Platform
GetJar and Opera Mobile Store are great places if you develop for both Android and iOS, though they support Java and Windows Mobile as well. Honourable mentions in the cross-platform category go to NexVa (refined localization), Kongregate (game-focused) and Appland (app-store manager included).
6. Multiple App Store Approach Requires Vigilance
In case you decide to submit an app to multiple stores, you’ll need something to help you keep track of its performance across all channels. The appScatter team has already developed a handy monitoring tool that delivers insight into four types of data – distribution, tracking, performance, and intelligence.
“There are more than 2 app stores. In fact there are over 300 app stores worldwide today and still growing”, the appScatter rep explains. “Distributing, managing and tracking your apps across multiple stores poses significant challenges.” That’s true, so make sure to use the right tool and stay vigilant.
