← All tools

ASO Tool

App Description & Keyword Generator

Generate optimized store copy — short descriptions, long descriptions, subtitles, promotional text, and keywords — separately for Google Play and Apple App Store.

Guide: App Store Optimization (ASO) Copywriting

ASO copy has two jobs: rank in search, and convert visitors into installs. The strategy is different for each store and each field. Here's what actually moves the needle.

🔍

How Store Search Works

Both stores index your title, subtitle (Apple) / short description (Google), long description (Google), and keyword field (Apple) for search. Each word is a ranking signal — choose them with search intent in mind.

📝

First 3 Lines Are Critical (Apple)

Apple shows only the first 3 lines of your description before the 'more' button. Pack your strongest value proposition, top 2 features, and a social proof signal into those ~170 characters.

🤖

Google Indexes Full Description

Google Play's algorithm reads your entire long description. Naturally mention your target keywords 3–5 times each throughout the text — not in a keyword-stuffed block, but in readable sentences.

🎯

Keyword Field (Apple Only)

Apple's 100-character keyword field is separate from your description. Use it to capture words you couldn't fit naturally in your title, subtitle, or description. No spaces after commas, no duplicate words.

📊

Promotional Text Updates (Apple)

Apple's promotional text (170 chars) can be updated any time without a new app submission. Use it for seasonal promotions, feature announcements, or sale copy — it's free real estate.

🌍

Localize for Each Market

A US English listing isn't the right description for UK, AU, or Canadian users — slang, terminology, and feature expectations differ. Localize descriptions for your top 5 markets if you care about organic growth.

Comparison: Google Play vs Apple App Store Copy Fields

The two stores have completely different metadata structures. What works on one won't map directly to the other. Here's the field-by-field breakdown.

FieldGoogle PlayApple App Store
Short DescriptionMax 80 chars. Appears in search results below the app name. Heavy ranking weight.Subtitle (30 chars). Appears under app name. Indexed for search. Cannot change without new build.
Long DescriptionMax 4,000 chars. Fully indexed by Play algorithm. Use keywords naturally 3–5×.Max 4,000 chars. NOT indexed for search. Focus on converting readers, not search ranking.
Keyword FieldNo separate keyword field — embed keywords in title + description.100 chars, comma-separated. Indexed for search. Don't repeat words already in your title/subtitle.
Promotional TextNo equivalent — use the 'What's New' section for update notes.170 chars. Shown above description. Updatable anytime. Not indexed. Great for CTAs and news.
What's New / Update NotesRecent changes section shown in store. Not indexed for search.What's New section. Shown for existing users on update. Not indexed for new user search.
LocalizationTranslate title, short description, long description per locale.Translate title, subtitle, description, keywords, and promotional text per locale.

ASO Keyword Glossary

Key terms used in app store optimization and metadata strategy.

ASOapp store optimizationkeyword rankingsearch visibilityorganic downloadsshort descriptionlong descriptionsubtitlepromotional textkeyword densitykeyword fieldconversion rateimpressionstap-through ratestore listinglocalizationmetadataindexed keywordssearch algorithmcategory rankingfeatured appseditorialuser acquisitionorganic trafficapp rankingkeyword researchcompetitor analysissearch volumeA/B testingstore experiments

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the App Store description affect my search ranking?
No — Apple does not index the long description for search. Your search ranking comes from: app name (strongest signal), subtitle, keyword field, and user behavior signals (downloads, ratings, engagement). Write your description to convert readers, not to rank in search.
Does Google Play index my full long description?
Yes — Google Play's algorithm indexes the full long description. Mention your target keywords naturally 3–5 times. Avoid keyword stuffing, as Google's algorithm can detect and penalize unnatural repetition.
How do I choose keywords for the Apple keyword field?
Use keywords that: (1) users actually search for, (2) aren't already in your app name or subtitle (don't waste the 100 chars repeating words already indexed), and (3) have reasonable competition. Tools like AppFollow, Sensor Tower, or AppFigures can show keyword search volume.
How often can I update my store description?
Google Play: anytime, without a new APK or AAB upload. Apple App Store: you need to submit a new app version to change the title, subtitle, description, and keywords. However, Promotional Text can be updated without a new build.
What makes a good 80-character Google Play short description?
Lead with your strongest benefit, not your feature list. Bad: 'Task manager with subtasks, tags, reminders, and calendar sync.' Good: 'Finish work faster — tasks, reminders & team sync in one place.' Punchy, benefit-first, with your main keyword early.
Should I localize my ASO copy?
Yes, if you care about international growth. Even translating just your title, subtitle/short description, and keywords for your top 5 markets can significantly increase organic downloads. Machine translation is a start, but native speaker review is important for nuance.