Getting your app featured on the App Store or Google Play is like receiving a golden ticket in the mobile app industry. Not only does it increase your visibility, but it also builds credibility and significantly boosts downloads. However, with millions of apps competing for attention, you need more than just a functional product — you need strategy, polish, and a compelling story.

In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through how to maximize your chances of being featured. Whether you’re working with a mobile application development agency or developing an app in-house, the principles remain the same.

Why Being Featured Matters

Before diving into the strategies, let’s understand why getting featured is such a big deal.

1. Massive Exposure

Both Apple and Google highlight featured apps on their store’s homepage and in curated collections. This puts your app in front of millions of potential users who otherwise might never discover it.

2. Boost in Downloads

Featured apps experience an immediate surge in downloads — sometimes by hundreds of percent — within the first 24 hours.

3. Brand Credibility

When Apple or Google recommends your app, it acts as a powerful endorsement, instantly building trust among users.

Understanding How Apple and Google Select Featured Apps

Apple’s App Store and Google Play have editorial teams that curate apps based on quality, design, user experience, and relevance to trends or events. While the exact algorithms and selection processes are not public, these are the key factors they typically consider:

  1. High-Quality User Interface (UI) – Clean, modern, and intuitive.

  2. Excellent User Experience (UX) – Easy navigation, fast performance, and minimal bugs.

  3. Native Feel – Seamlessly aligned with the design guidelines of the platform.

  4. Regular Updates – Apps that are actively maintained get priority.

  5. Unique Concept or Innovation – Something that stands out from the crowd.

  6. Strong Ratings and Reviews – Both quantity and quality matter.

Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Featured

Step 1: Start With a High-Quality Product

No amount of marketing can save an app that is poorly designed or filled with bugs. The foundation of getting featured starts with creating an exceptional product.

If you’re not sure where to start, working with a mobile application development agency can give you access to skilled designers, developers, and testers who understand what Apple and Google look for in an app.

Step 2: Optimize Performance and Speed

Both platforms favor apps that run smoothly. Focus on:

  • Fast load times

  • Minimal crashes

  • Efficient battery usage

  • Compatibility across devices

An app that drains battery or crashes frequently will quickly be buried in rankings.

Step 3: Follow Platform Design Guidelines

Apple and Google provide official design guidelines (Human Interface Guidelines for iOS and Material Design Guidelines for Android). Following them ensures:

  • A native feel

  • Consistency with other top-performing apps

  • A better chance of being noticed by editorial teams

Step 4: Create an Engaging App Store Listing

Your app’s store listing is your first impression. Make sure it includes:

  • A compelling title and description

  • High-resolution screenshots

  • Engaging app preview videos

  • Clear explanations of your app’s features and benefits

Step 5: Leverage Seasonal and Trending Opportunities

Both platforms regularly feature apps during events like:

  • Back-to-school season

  • Holidays (Christmas, Halloween, etc.)

  • Major sports events

  • Global initiatives (Earth Day, World Health Day)

If your app ties into one of these themes, update your store listing, in-app elements, and promotional materials to reflect it.

Step 6: Build a Strong Marketing and PR Campaign

Apple and Google are more likely to feature apps that already have buzz. Ways to build hype include:

  • Social media marketing

  • Influencer partnerships

  • Press releases

  • Engaging with tech bloggers

Step 7: Submit Your App for Consideration

Both platforms allow you to submit your app to be considered for featuring:

  • Apple App Store: Developers can use Apple’s official submission form.

  • Google Play: Developers can contact Google Play’s editorial team through the Play Console.

Additional Tips to Boost Your Chances

1. Maintain High Ratings

Encourage satisfied users to leave positive reviews. Respond to negative feedback quickly to show you value user experience.

2. Update Frequently

Regular updates not only fix bugs but also show commitment to improvement, which both platforms value.

3. Incorporate Innovative Technology

If your app integrates cutting-edge tech such as AI, AR, or blockchain, it’s more likely to grab attention.

For instance, understanding AI App Development Cost in 2025 can help you plan better if you’re integrating AI features into your app.

Budgeting for a Feature-Worthy App

Developing an app worthy of being featured requires investment. Knowing How Much Does It Cost to Make an App is essential for setting realistic expectations and avoiding budget pitfalls.

Timeframe for Development

The time it takes to create a high-quality app varies based on complexity, team size, and features. Learn more about How Long Does it Take to Develop an App to ensure your timelines align with potential seasonal or event-based featuring opportunities.

Unique Features That Stand Out

If you want your app to stand out, offering unique and memorable features is crucial. For example, apps that offer augmented reality filters or personalized recommendations can gain a competitive edge. A great example of understanding unique functionality can be seen in the Guide to the Mirror App and Its Features — it showcases how thoughtful design and innovative features attract attention.

The Role of a Mobile Application Development Agency

A mobile application development agency plays a vital role in:

  • Designing user-friendly interfaces

  • Building a stable and secure backend

  • Testing for multiple devices and operating systems

  • Guiding you through the submission process

Agencies also understand the subtle differences between iOS and Android design and marketing strategies, which can significantly impact your chances of being featured.

Common Mistakes That Prevent Apps from Being Featured

Even well-built apps sometimes fail to get noticed due to:

  • Poor app store optimization (ASO)

  • Lack of marketing before launch

  • Ignoring user feedback

  • Slow update cycles

  • Overcomplicated navigation

Avoiding these pitfalls will improve your odds.

After You’re Featured — What’s Next?

Being featured is just the beginning. To maximize the benefits:

  1. Monitor analytics – Track downloads, engagement, and retention.

  2. Engage new users – Send welcome messages, offer onboarding guides, and use push notifications strategically.

  3. Plan retention strategies – Keep your app relevant through updates, new features, and community engagement.

Final Thoughts

Getting featured on the App Store or Google Play is a blend of preparation, quality, and timing. It’s about creating an exceptional app, telling a compelling story, and building momentum both inside and outside the app store.

Whether you’re developing in-house or partnering with a mobile application development agency, keep your focus on quality, performance, and user experience. By doing so, you’ll not only increase your chances of being featured but also build a loyal user base that sustains long-term success.