Why run an ASO audit?

Launching an app is not the finish line—it’s the start of visibility work. In 2025, App Store and Google Play ranking algorithms are smarter, more context-aware, and increasingly focused on real performance. An ASO audit lets you assess whether your app’s listing:

• Is optimized for the right keywords

• Converts views into downloads

• Matches user expectations and search intent

• Avoids performance red flags (like high uninstall rates)

ASO audit checklist – 10 things to review now

1. Title and subtitle / short description

   • Is your primary keyword included?

   • Is the value proposition clear?

   • Does it pass the “would I click on this?” test?

2. Long description

   • Is it structured with headings and scannable sections?

   • Does it speak the user's language (benefits > features)?

   • Are secondary keywords present in a natural way?

3. Icon and first screenshot

   • Do they stand out visually in search results?

   • Is the visual consistent with your brand/app style?

   • Does the first screenshot communicate the app's core benefit?

4. Keyword metadata (iOS) or natural indexing (Google Play)

   • Are you using all available characters?

   • Are keywords relevant and not duplicated?

   • Are long-tail phrases and regional variants included?

5. User ratings and reviews

   • What's your current average rating?

   • Are you responding to reviews (especially bad ones)?

   • Do you have a mechanism to ask for reviews in-app?

6. Localized listings

   • Is your app localized for top markets?

   • Are translations native-quality and culturally relevant?

   • Are keywords optimized per locale?

7. Visual assets (screenshots/video preview)

   • Do they tell a visual story of how the app works?

   • Are captions benefit-driven and easy to read?

   • Is there a landscape version (for relevant apps)?

8. App performance indicators

   • What’s your crash rate?

   • What’s your uninstall rate within 24h?

   • Are there bugs affecting user reviews?

9. Conversion rates (impression to install)

   • Do your analytics show high traffic but low installs?

   • What’s your top exit point on the store page?

   • Are users bouncing after the first 3 screenshots?

10. Competitor benchmarking

• How does your app listing compare to the top 3 apps in your category?

• Are you targeting similar keywords?

• Are your assets more or less engaging?

When to run an ASO audit?

• Before major product updates

• When installs plateau or decline

• When entering new markets

• After user feedback indicates a mismatch between expectations and experience

Tips for a fast but effective audit

• Use tools like AppTweak, Sensor Tower, or App Radar for quick diagnostics

• Do manual checks in the App Store and Google Play to see how you rank

• Use heatmaps or session recordings if your store listing has high drop-off

• Treat your listing like a landing page – test, iterate, improve

Summary

An ASO audit is like a health check for your app's discoverability. It shows whether you’re being seen, understood, and trusted by potential users. You don’t need a huge budget—but you do need clarity, consistency, and a focus on user intent. If your current listing isn’t pulling its weight, now’s the time to fix it.