Understanding the Early Success of Your First App on Google Play Store

Developing an app is just the beginning of a long journey. One of the key challenges faced by app developers, especially when launching their first application, is understanding the initial performance of their app in the Google Play Store. Several factors can influence the number of downloads a new app receives, such as features, advertising, and post-launch optimization. This article explores the insights from the first days and months after releasing three different apps on the Google Play Store, MyMovieList, Funny Burns and Insults, and Rhyming Dictionary: with Pronunciation.

MyMovieList: The First Hand's Encounter

My first foray into app development was with MyMovieList, a catalog app for movies. It currently has 4600 downloads and is on track to reach 5000. This app offers a range of interesting features, including personalized watchlists that users can easily share. Additionally, there is a public feed showcasing all public watchlists created by users, making it simple to discover new movies to watch.

My goal was to present a user-friendly and ad-free experience, which means the app focuses on providing the best possible user experience without any intrusive advertisements. This decision not only enhances user satisfaction but also builds a positive reputation for the app. Even though the app has been officially reviewed by Google and is now on the shelves, it's important to understand the initial performance and how to optimize the app for future success.

Struggles and Successes

When I launched Funny Burns and Insults, a humor app, on the first day, I stumbled with just 3 downloads. This is not uncommon and it's crucial to remember that the number of installs on the first day after releasing an app can be influenced by several factors, including the app's visibility, method of promotion, and its alignment with user interests. In the case of Funny Burns and Insults, its niche and humorous content alone might not have caught the immediate attention of a wide audience.

The official review period of 3 days by Google is a critical stage where the app is evaluated based on Google's policies and guidelines. During this period, all downloaded apps may not be officially counted, which can impact the immediate metrics. After this period, the focus shifts to other promotional activities like preparing a press release and optimizing the app's visibility on the store.

Long-term Growth of My Movie List

For MyMovieList, the journey to gaining 8000 downloads over 5 months without any paid advertising is notable. Friends and family played a significant role in getting the first 20–30 initial installs. However, relying solely on word-of-mouth might not be sufficient for long-term success. Efforts such as sharing the app on forums and social media, using platforms like Facebook Ads, and investing in app store optimization (ASO) are crucial for sustained growth.

Investing in ASO services like CPIMobi and WhiteMobi can be beneficial. These services specialize in helping new apps achieve higher rankings and more downloads from genuine users. For MyMovieList, the low cost of CPI (0.06) made these services more accessible. While the app saw slow, steady growth over time, the right strategies can significantly expedite the process.

Lessons Learned

The journey of app development is full of ups and downs. Here are some key takeaways from the experiences shared above:

Focus on user experience and keep the app clean and ad-free. Understand the initial performance of your app post-launch and use it to make informed decisions. Prepare for the official review period by ensuring your app adheres to all Google policies. Invest in ASO and consider engaging with ASO services to boost visibility. Share your app on relevant forums, social media platforms, and use targeted ads to drive initial installs.

Each app has its unique story, and while the data may vary, the importance of effective strategies for app promotion remains consistent. By understanding and implementing these strategies, developers can maximize the potential of their apps and achieve sustained success.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the number of initial downloads may not be the only measure of an app's success, but it is a critical step in the journey. By leveraging the right strategies and continually optimizing the app, developers can turn initial downloads into a thriving app with a loyal user base.