How to Promote a Mobile App

The fastest, cheapest, and most effective way to start promoting your mobile app is through strategic directory submissions.

Launch directories are platforms where tech enthusiasts, early adopters, and potential users actively search for new apps to try. Think Product Hunt (brings massive buzz for mobile apps), BetaList, and hundreds of app-specific directories and startup listing platforms.

Why this strategy is so powerful:

Immediate visibility and first downloads: A successful Product Hunt launch alone can generate thousands of app installs in a single day from engaged users.

Landing page SEO boost: Each directory listing creates a valuable backlink to your app's landing page, dramatically improving your website's SEO and domain rating. When your landing page ranks higher on Google for searches like '[problem] app' or 'best [category] mobile app,' you drive consistent organic traffic that converts to app store visits and downloads.

Indirect ASO boost: The external traffic and download velocity from directory listings signal to Apple's App Store and Google Play that your app is popular and trending, indirectly boosting your ASO rankings.

AI Assistant visibility: These backlinks make your app visible to AI assistants. When users ask ChatGPT, Claude, or Perplexity for mobile app recommendations, these AI tools scan authoritative directories to provide answers.


Permanent results: Unlike paid user acquisition campaigns that cost money for every install, directory listings stay live permanently, creating true compound growth.

This builds momentum across multiple channels simultaneously. LaunchDirectories maintains a comprehensive database of 100+ best platforms for launching your app. We also offer a done-for-you submission service where we handle all the manual submissions, save you 70+ hours, and get your app listed across the most impactful directories in just 3-5 days.

ASO is SEO for app stores. Optimize your app title and subtitle with relevant keywords that users actually search for. Write a compelling description that highlights benefits, not just features. Use high-quality screenshots and preview videos that showcase your app's value within seconds. Encourage reviews and ratings - apps with 4.5+ stars and hundreds of reviews see significantly higher conversion rates.

Don't rely solely on app store visibility. Create a dedicated website for your app that ranks on Google. When people search for '[problem] app' or 'best [category] mobile app,' you want your landing page to appear. This landing page should have clear calls-to-action, feature highlights, testimonials, and direct links to download from App Store and Google Play. Quality backlinks from directories improve your website's discoverability.

Create short, engaging demo videos for TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts showing your app solving real problems. These platforms' algorithms can push your content to millions of relevant users. Consider partnering with micro-influencers in your niche - they often have highly engaged audiences and are more affordable than major influencers. Even a single viral post can drive thousands of downloads.

Once you've validated your app's value proposition, run paid user acquisition campaigns. Apple Search Ads and Google App Campaigns let you target users actively searching for apps like yours. Facebook and Instagram ads work well for apps with broad appeal. Start small, optimize for cost per install, and scale campaigns that show positive ROI. Track beyond installs - measure engagement, retention, and revenue per user.

Build viral growth directly into your app. Offer rewards (premium features, in-app currency, content unlocks) for users who invite friends. Make the referral process seamless - one-tap sharing with pre-written messages. Apps like Dropbox and Robinhood grew exponentially through referral programs that turned every user into a potential growth channel. Beyond direct referrals, engaged users often create content about apps they love - blog posts, YouTube reviews, and social media recommendations that include links back to your app, creating valuable backlinks. For managing affiliate and referral programs at scale, Affonso helps you track performance and automate payouts effortlessly.

Create blog content, YouTube videos, and guides related to your app's niche. For example, if you have a fitness app, create content about workout tips, nutrition guides, and fitness challenges. This content ranks on Google, drives organic traffic to your app's landing page, and positions your app as an authority in your space. Content marketing creates sustainable, long-term user acquisition.