Top charts in app stores are dynamic rankings that showcase the most popular and high-performing apps. These charts are organized by various dimensions such as category, country, and monetization model (free, paid, grossing).
Tracking top charts is crucial for app developers and marketers as it helps in understanding the competitive landscape and enhancing app visibility.
You can track top charts directly in FoxData
Why App Devs & Marketers Need to Check Top Charts
Increased Visibility and Traffic
Top charts serve as a discovery mechanism for users to find new and popular apps. Being listed in the top charts can significantly increase an app’s visibility, attracting Explore traffic in Google Play and Browse traffic in Apple’s App Store.
Enhanced Credibility and Social Proof
Ranking high in top charts enhances an app’s credibility and serves as social proof. This can boost user trust and lead to higher download numbers.
ASO Strategy Improvement
Analyzing top chart rankings helps app marketers understand market trends and refine their ASO strategies. This includes keyword optimization and conversion rate optimization to improve overall app performance.
Differences Between Apple App Store and Google Play Store Top Charts
Apple App Store Top Charts
Apple’s App Store top charts are known for their volatility, with less than 25% of apps in the top 100 maintaining their ranking for an entire year. The top charts are somewhat hidden, requiring users to scroll to the bottom of the Apps or Games tab, select a category, and then scroll down again to find the rankings. This makes them less prominent for casual browsing compared to featured apps.
👉 What about iOS app store optimization algorithms?
Google Play Store Top Charts
In contrast, Google Play’s top charts are more accessible and are located in the store’s top navigation. This visibility makes them a more effective discovery mechanism for users. Google Play’s top charts also experience frequent changes due to new app releases and updates, adding to their dynamic nature.
👉 Decoding Google Play Store Algorithm 2024: Comprehensive ASO Guides for Elevating App Rankings
How to Track Traffic from Top Charts
Tracking Traffic on the App Store
- Access App Store Connect: Log in to your App Store Connect account.
- Navigate to Analytics: Go to the “App Analytics” section.
- Select Your App: Choose the app you want to analyze.
- View Sources: Under the “Metrics” tab, select “Impressions” and filter by “Source Type” to see traffic from “Browse.”
- Analyze Data: Look for spikes in Browse impressions and downloads. While you can’t filter the data by top charts, the spikes could indicate increased traffic from top charts.
Tracking Traffic on Google Play
- Access Google Play Console: Log in to your Google Play Console account.
- Navigate to Statistics: Go to the “Statistics” section.
- Select Your App: Choose the app you want to analyze.
- View Acquisition Reports: Under “User Acquisition,” select “Explore” to see traffic from the top charts.
- Analyze Data: Look for spikes in Explore store listing visitors and downloads. If you see an unexplainable increase in downloads, it could be because your app is ranking high in top charts.
How to Track the Impact of Top Charts on ASO
If an app gets featured in the top charts, app owners will likely see a spike in Browse impressions (App Store) or Explore Store listing visitors and downloads (Google Play). However, this may be accompanied by a temporary drop in Browse/Explore conversion rates.
Key Points to Investigate
- App’s Relevance: Ensure that the app's value propositions align with the featured story or collection.
- App’s Position: The higher the app is listed in the top charts, the more likely users will see and download it.
Using ASO Tools
ASO tools can help measure the impact of top chart features over time and compare performance against competitors. While getting into top charts doesn’t directly drive installs, it can provide a valuable visibility boost when executed well.
By leveraging top charts effectively, app marketers can significantly improve their app’s visibility, credibility, and download numbers, ultimately leading to better overall app performance.
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