App store search is the process by which users search for and discover apps in the app store. When a user enters a search query in the app store search bar, the app store algorithm scans through all the apps available in the store and returns a list of relevant apps. The order in which the apps are displayed is determined by the app store algorithm, which takes into account a variety of factors such as app ratings, app descriptions, and user reviews. In addition to organic results – the most relevant apps identified by the app store algorithm – the search results will also show one paid ad delivered via Apple Search Ads.
App store search is a critical component of app discovery. According to research, 70% of App Store visitors use search to discover apps, while almost 65% of downloads happen directly after a search. This means that if your app is not optimized for app store search, it may not be discovered by potential users, resulting in lost downloads and revenue.