Top App Store Features Comparison
Deciding where to launch your mobile masterpiece? We’re diving into what really matters for the Apple App Store and Google Play Store—approval times, revenue stats, and sheer number of apps.
App Approval Processes
Ready to launch your brainchild into the digital ether? Approval speeds differ a lot between Apple and Google. At Apple’s App Store, patience is a virtue; roughly 90% of iOS apps get the nod within 48 hours (Bigabid). Google Play, however, keeps it snappy, usually giving your app the thumbs up in just about two hours.
| App Store | Approval Time |
|---|---|
| Apple App Store | Up to 48 hours |
| Google Play Store | Around 2 hours |
Need more juicy details? Check out our app store review process.
Revenue Generation
Let’s talk dollars and cents. In 2021, Apple was the big dog, racking up about $85.1 billion in app dough—holding 63% of the cash pie. Google Play wasn’t slacking, though, bringing in close to $47.9 billion; that’s roughly 37% of the app revenue game (Bigabid).
| App Store | Annual Revenue (2021) | Revenue Share |
|---|---|---|
| Apple App Store | $85.1 billion | 30/70% |
| Google Play Store | $47.9 billion | 30/70% |
Get the full scoop on money matters over at apple app store vs google play store.
Number of Apps Available
Now, let’s talk options. Back in the day, 2008 to be exact, the Apple App Store started off tiny with 500 apps. Fast forward to today, and it’s ballooned to a whopping 210 million apps. Google Play? They’ve got the numbers, riding high with around 3.5 million apps, thanks to Android’s global grip (Bigabid).
| App Store | Number of Apps |
|---|---|
| Apple App Store | ~210 million |
| Google Play Store | ~3.5 million |
For those hungry for more insights into app numbers and game plans, our piece on google play store advantages is a must-read.
Deciphering these key features puts power in developers’ hands, helping them decide the best hangout for their apps. Want to up your app game? Swing by our page on app store ranking algorithms for some strategic gold.
Apple App Store Features
When we’re diving into the world of the Apple App Store, a few standout features really catch your eye. Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of the review process, revenue share, that pesky developer account fee, and some handy App Store Optimization (ASO) tips.
Review Process
So, the Apple App Store’s famous for giving apps the ol’ once-over. Every app that’s tossed into this digital playground gets checked out thoroughly to match Apple’s super-tough rules. About 90% of apps get the thumbs-up or nope within two days (Bigabid). This tight screening keeps the app quality top-notch.
Got questions about how this whole shebang works? Read our app store review process article.
Revenue Share
If you’re a developer making under a cool million in sales, Apple throws you a bone with the App Store Small Business Program. This means you get to pocket 15% more on those paid apps and in-app goodies (Apple). Normally, Apple takes 30% and leaves you with 70%. And just so you know, Apple’s cash from the App Store crossed the $100 billion mark starting in 2020 (Splitmetrics).
Developer Account Fee
Kicking things off on the Apple App Store isn’t free. You’ll need to shell out $99 every year, which is steeper than other big app stores (Splitmetrics).
| App Store | Developer Account Fee |
|---|---|
| Apple App Store | $99 annually |
| Google Play Store | $25 one-time |
Interested in how it stacks against Google Play Store? Check out our comparison here.
ASO Strategies
ASO on Apple isn’t just throwing a snazzy title and calling it a day. It’s a mix of smart strategies to boost how often peeps see and download your app. Apple’s rolled out cool tools like App Seasonality and widgets to pitch fitting apps to iOS and iPad users (Bigabid). These extras can seriously up your app’s visibility and engagement.
For more on ASO tactics, peek at our guide about app store ranking algorithms.
By getting the hang of these features, developers can better maneuver the Apple App Store to get their app seen and cash rolling in.
Google Play Store Features
Review Process Comparison
Check it out: the Google Play Store’s approval process is kind of a breeze when you stack it up against the control-freak vibes of the Apple App Store. It’s like those Disney rides where you barely wait — because Google’s process is mostly robots doing their thing, giving the thumbs up with machine learning and AI mind tricks. Boom, faster approvals! But, alright, sometimes those bots let in a few duds. Meanwhile, over at Apple, it’s intensive human scrutiny city (Mudimedia).
| Platform | Review Process | Review Time | Technology Used |
|---|---|---|---|
| Google Play Store | Automated, casual | Quick | Machine Learning, AI |
| Apple App Store | Manual, hardcore | Longer | Human Reviewers |
Revenue Share
Google’s pretty much copying Apple’s homework with that 30/70 revenue split deal. Doesn’t matter if it’s Apple or Android — the split is the same. Yet, even with more folks using Android, Google Play Store’s cash pile can’t catch up to Apple’s bling, still not breaking the $50 billion mark yearly (Splitmetrics). Wanna dive into the money game? Check out our piece on apple app store vs google play store.
| Platform | Revenue Split | Annual Revenue |
|---|---|---|
| Google Play Store | Up to 30/70 | Less than $50 billion |
| Apple App Store | Up to 30/70 | Way more |
Developer Account Fee
Now, if you’re thinking about becoming a big-shot app developer, Google Play Store only asks for a one-time $25 handshake to get started, which is peanuts compared to Apple’s $99 yearly fee. This makes Google Play the land of opportunity for fresh devs and ensures a bigger zoo of apps (Splitmetrics). Curious about more perks? Peek at our rundown of google play store advantages.
| Platform | Developer Account Fee |
|---|---|
| Google Play Store | $25 (one-time) |
| Apple App Store | $99 (yearly) |
Metadata Optimization
If you wanna get your app noticed, you gotta play the metadata game — aka App Store Optimization (ASO) if you wanna sound fancy. Google Play gives you a whole buffet of options for pimping out your app, like titles, tricked-out descriptions, and keywords. It’s all about choosing those magic words to climb the search charts and get eyeballs on your app.
Here’s the rundown on good metadata vibes for Google Play:
- App Title: Slip in prime keywords but keep it readable (no one likes a keyword salad).
- Short Description: Pack in the essentials in 80 characters, like it’s a Twitter flex.
- Long Description: Break down the goods and what makes your app the bomb, tossing in secondary keywords.
- Keywords: Choose big-shot terms to boost your app to search engine stardom.
For more on mastering metadata, swing by our guide on app store ranking algorithms and latest ASO moves.
By tapping these little insider secrets, developers can crank up their app game on Google Play Store, pulling in more users and cash. ♠️
App Localization and Global Presence
Getting your app to rock the world stage isn’t just about text tweaks; it’s about fully embracing the culture and vibe of each market. Both Apple’s App Store and Google’s Play Store have thrown in features to help devs connect with users worldwide.
App Store Localization
Let’s talk localization. It’s not only about changing a couple words—it’s giving your app a cultural makeover, complete with a local accent. Besides translating text, you need to tweak the interface, swap out images, and maybe even adjust your app’s tricks to suit neighborhood norms. Apple’s all about prepping apps for selling more gigs and gaining fans across borders (Apple Developer).
Here’s how you can do it:
- Translating App Descriptions: Make your app descriptions and metadata available in various tongues.
- Localizing Screenshots: Tailor those snapshots to vibe with folks from different corners of the world.
- Adjusting In-App Content: Icons, instructions, and user screens need to speak local language and culture fluently.
For more juicy details on how to polish up your app store listings, check out our article here: app store ranking algorithms.
Global Revenue Comparison
Let’s crunch some numbers. Apple’s App Store and Google’s Play Store aren’t quite equals when it comes to revenue. In the early days of 2023, Apple gobbled up 67% of app income, leaving Google Play scrounging for 23%. So, iOS seems to be where the money’s at (Bigabid). Back in 2020, Apple’s iOS app scene was raking in over $643 billion globally—yep, they’re swimming in cash (Apple).
Looking at app numbers, the Apple App Store hosts 1.83 million apps, while Google Play entertains a whopping 3.95 million (Global App Testing). Apple’s more intimate crowd suggests a boutique feel, possibly leading to better apps and bigger bucks.
| Platform | Number of Apps | Global Revenue Share | Review Process Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apple App Store | 1.83 million | 67% | 42-48 hours |
| Google Play Store | 3.95 million | 23% | 2-18 hours |
Stats courtesy of Global App Testing and Bigabid.
For a deeper look at the ups and downs of each store, peek at our article here: apple app store vs google play store. Eager to boost your app’s street cred? Get the scoop on metadata optimization.
User Engagement and Interaction
Cooking up some seriously good user engagement can make or break a mobile app. Let’s gab about two nifty features you’ll find on app distribution platforms: In-App Events and App Store Widgets.
In-App Events
In-App Events are the caffeine shot your app needs to stay lively and in action. They draw users back like a good cup of coffee with enticing time-limited activities and special offers. Picture quirky challenges, flash sales, or new content ready to drop — all jostling users to make that app icon their best friend.
Check out the Apple App Store. It flaunts these events front and center on the app’s product page and, if you’re lucky, in search results and fancy editorial picks. Apple isn’t fooling around; it knows the right spotlight does wonders for app engagement.
Google’s Play Store isn’t snoozing either. Its “Events” feature takes the stage on app pages, in search results, and curated lists, making these events easy to spot and hard to resist.
Let’s see how these two tech titans stack up with In-App Events:
| Feature | Apple App Store | Google Play Store |
|---|---|---|
| Event Display | Product Page, Search Results, Editorial Hits | Product Page, Search Results, Curated Lists |
| Standout Goodies | Quick Hits, Limited-Time Fun, Fresh Releases | Flashy Offers, Challenges, New Stuff Rolling In |
App Store Widgets
Widgets are like having your app wave at you from the home screen, keeping users hooked with a real-time, personalized buzz. These in-your-face helpers offer fast-track access to app goodies, fresh content, and tailored suggestions — all without opening anything.
In Apple’s corner, these widgets spill the tea on latest happenings, recent app escapades, and tailor-made tidbits based on the user’s taste. Users stay in the loop and engaged without lifting a finger.
Not to be outdone, Google’s widgets give quick access to app magic and updates — displaying recent shenanigans, upcoming hoopla, and handpicked content. It’s like a neon sign urging users to take a peek.
Peek at how these widgets lineup against each other:
| Widget Mojo | Apple App Store | Google Play Store |
|---|---|---|
| Info Served | Latest Happenings, App Escapades, Tips | Recent Mischief, Events, Tailored Feeds |
| Easy Access | Home Screen Razzle, Notification Center | Home Screen Snap, Notification Hub |
Curious about how these jazz up user engagement? Go ye to our juicy reads on app store ranking algorithms and google play store advantages.
By using these snazzy tricks and tactics, developers can dial-up user engagement, boost retention, and make every user’s experience worthwhile. Feast your eyes on more app know-how by diving into our takes on apple app store vs google play store and app store review process.
Developer Community and Support
Checking out the developer hangout spots and back-up systems from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store is like comparing two titans who help app makers get their goodies out to the masses.
Developer Registrations
Both these platforms play host to a massive pile of developers, who are always bubbling with fresh ideas to make those life-changing apps you can’t live without.
Apple App Store
Apple’s got a crew of over 34 million developers from 227 spots around the globe. Their developer scene is super lively, always buzzing with creativity (Apple).
| Metric | Apple App Store |
|---|---|
| Registered Developers | 34 Million |
| Supported Regions | 227 |
Google Play Store
Now, Google Play might play its cards closer to the chest with numbers, but it’s no secret that their Android platform is a goldmine for developers worldwide to showcase their apps to anyone, anywhere.
Assistance Programs
Apple and Google got your back big time! They’ve got some slick programs to help developers learn the ropes and fine-tune their skills.
Apple App Store
Apple rolls out the red carpet with goodies like the Apple Developer Program and Apple Entrepreneur Camp. The Developer Program dishes out tools, code hints, and manuals to help you nail that app from start to finish. Meanwhile, the Entrepreneur Camp reaches out to emerging talents for some extra love and mentorship.
Key Programs:
- Apple Developer Program: Toolbox for creating killer apps.
- Apple Entrepreneur Camp: Advice and support for up-and-coming developers.
Google Play Store
Google Play’s arsenal includes the Google Play Console and Google Play Academy. The Console acts like a command center for developers, letting them handle app submissions and keep tabs on those all-important metrics. As for the Play Academy, it’s like a school where developers sharpen their skills and learn new tricks (Business of Apps).
Key Programs:
- Google Play Console: Handles app management and boosts performance.
- Google Play Academy: Skills upgrade center for developers.
| Feature | Apple App Store | Google Play Store |
|---|---|---|
| Developer Program | Apple Developer Program | Google Play Console |
| Educational Resources | Apple Developer Website, Apple Entrepreneur Camp | Google Play Academy |
| Supported Regions | 227 regions | Global |
Comparing these champs, it’s crystal clear they are both loaded with resources to help developers reach for the stars. If you’re curious about more tidbits, check out our deep dives on apple app store vs google play store and google play store advantages.
App Discoverability Strategies
ASO Best Practices
Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of App Store Optimization (ASO). It’s our secret sauce for getting more eyes on our apps and boosting downloads. Here’s how we make it happen:
- App Ratings and Reviews: Think of ratings as a report card and reviews as user diaries. Both are gold mines for boosting those download numbers. Regularly checking and chatting with reviewers keeps us in touch with what users want and helps us shine in the ratings game.
- Mobile Measurement Partner (MMP) Data: Partnering with an MMP is like having a backstage pass to app success. We use it to figure out where our installs are coming from, how our ads are doing, and what our users are up to after the download.
- A/B Testing: It’s like trying on different outfits until we find the one that gets the most compliments. We keep testing things like icons and screenshots to see what gets the most clicks and downloads.
Keyword Optimization
Finding the right words is key to making sure our app pops up in search results when folks are hunting for similar apps. Here’s how we approach it:
- Research Tools: We’ve got our eye on tools like Google Keyword Planner and App Annie to sniff out those high-traffic keywords that the cool kids (meaning successful competitors) are using.
- Relevance and Volume: It’s not just about grabbing the popular keywords, but tuning into ones that make sense for our app and have a high search frequency.
- Keyword Placement: We strategically place the magic words where they matter—title, subtitle, description, and metadata. All while avoiding keyword stuffing, because that’s just a bad look.
ASO Metrics Comparison
Let’s peek at a breakdown of some popular ASO metrics to see how our strategies stack up:
| Metric | Apple App Store | Google Play Store |
|---|---|---|
| App Ratings | 4.5 | 4.6 |
| Review Response Time | 24 hrs | 12 hrs |
| Keyword Research Tools | Apple Search Ads | Google Keyword Planner |
| A/B Testing Availability | Yes | Yes |
For deeper dives into app store ranking algorithms and their role in making apps pop, check our detailed guides. Tweaking these can really pump up how visible our app is on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
Future Trends and Market Share
Here, we’re digging into what’s on the horizon for the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. Knowing how these two big players are shaping up can be a goldmine for users, developers, and marketers trying to keep their heads above water in the ever-moving game of app distribution.
App Store Growth Trends
The App Store and Google Play Store are both on the up and up, riding the wave of all the new gadgets and smarter tech. According to the folks at Bigabid, the Apple App Store blew past $100 billion a year in revenue starting from 2020, leaving Google Play in the dust even though Android’s got a bigger slice of the mobile pie around the globe.
Revenue Growth Table:
| Year | Apple App Store Revenue (in billion $) | Google Play Store Revenue (in billion $) |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | >100 | — |
| 2021 | 85.1 | 47.9 |
| 2022 | +32% | +10% |
First quarter of 2022 was a field day for Apple, with revenue shooting up by 32%, while Google Play kinda trailed with just a 10% bump. These numbers show Apple knows how to bring in the bucks, even if they’re only on Apple gadgets.
Market Share Insights
When it comes to market share, the Apple App Store is the goose with the golden egg for developers. At the start of 2023, Apple snatched up 67% of all app revenue, leaving Google Play with a measly 23%. This alone makes a pretty strong case for kicking off your app journey on iOS if you want to break into the market quickly.
Market Share Table:
| Year | Apple App Store Market Share (%) | Google Play Store Market Share (%) |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 63 | 37 |
| Early 2023 | 67 | 23 |
For the nitty-gritty on what sets these two apart, you might want to dive into our full breakdown on apple app store vs google play store.
Developers should also think twice about what each store brings to the party. For example, the Apple App Store’s nitpicky app store review process means only top-shelf apps get to users, while Google Play’s metadata optimization helps your app get noticed more easily.
All said and done, both platforms are rolling with the punches and offering a mix of perks and hurdles. As the app scene twists and turns, staying clued-up on these shifts can steer developers and marketers in the right direction. By tapping into the latest growth and market share trends, you can pretty much supercharge your plans and get your app flying high.