Screenshots are the window shopping of the App Store world. They capture our attention, tell stories, and share insights. Screenshots showcase what an app does, how it’s used, and more. Each app store page has its own unique flair to showcase itself, and screenshots help complete that.
In this article, I’m going to break down what is working today for app store screenshots. What stands out to capture users' attention, what works, and what doesn’t. It’s not about copying; it’s about creating unique experiences wrapped in attention-grabbing images.
For the examples of this article, I chose the app; SuperMusic - Ai Music Maker. I’m not affiliated nor partnered.
Your First Three Images Must Speak Volumes
Let’s go over what makes this so ideal in today’s world of app selection. Look at your own app store habits. When you’re scrolling through the store, what stands out to you?
Icon
Title
Subtitle
Screenshots
These are going to be the big four. One of these elements will attract, or hook, a user to at least visit your store page.
Why does it matter that these areas need to be focused on? I’ll tell you why by breaking down each part that makes this app specific in regards to the big four.
When it comes to users window shopping for an app like yours, if your app’s first three images can answer these questions, you’re on a sure-fire way to getting a download:
What does the app do?
The Ai music app that turns your prompt into a full song with vocals
How does the app work?
Just type in your lyrics, and watch as SuperMusic crafts a full, professionally-sounding song in a matter of minutes.
How do I get them?
Share your AI-crafted hits on social media or with friends directly through the app.
It’s not always going to be the case to fit everything into these questions. However, doing the best and more importantly is to showcase the core and how within the three images.
Can a Video on Your App Store Page Boost Downloads?
Absolutely. A video is one of the most important features to offer on your store page. I always suggest adding a 10-15 second promo video that showcases everything a user needs to know on the surface about your app. The video doesn’t need to be edited to Hollywood standards; it’s more about what the app does than the shiny effects. Be sure to showcase the main points within the first 7 seconds of the video for best attention-grabbing results.
Leveraging Social Proof to Enhance App Trust and Downloads
Social proofing screenshots is crucial for boosting downloads as it builds trust and credibility through real user experiences and positive feedback. These screenshots validate the app's value and reassure potential users, encouraging them to download with confidence.
Is that always the case? Of course not. Some apps exaggerate or flat out lie the social proof they display. Some apps with minimal downloads falsely claim to be the “#1 App” in their market. In the long run, such apps typically fail.
However, there are ways to enhance credibility early on without resorting to deception. Here’s my advice: Avoid overdoing fake proof. Be unique, stand out, and choose your words carefully. Copying others may work occasionally, but authenticity is key for users to believe.
If you’re struggling with screenshots, check out my friend Designerants on Twitter who makes amazing screenshots that convert.
Ideas on Social Proof
Stuck on ideas for how to use social proof on your screenshots? You have data everywhere, it’s how we utilize that data for our advantages.
Here are a few ideas for social proofing our apps:
1. User Reviews and Ratings: Display genuine user feedback and ratings prominently on your app store page.
2. Testimonials: Include testimonials from satisfied users or influencers who have used and endorsed your app.
3. User Counters: Show how many users have installed your app or are currently using it. I.e. “Over 50,000 Downloads”.
4. Featured in Media: Highlight mentions or features of your app in trusted publications or media outlets.
5. Badges and Awards: Showcase any industry awards, certifications, or badges your app has received.
6. Social Media Mentions: Display social media mentions, shares, and engagement metrics related to your app.
7. Case Studies: Present detailed case studies of how your app has benefited specific users or businesses.
8. Trust Seals: Use trusted seals or certifications to assure users of your app's reliability and security.
9. Partnerships and Integrations: Highlight partnerships or integrations with well-known brands or platforms.
🎉 Flair Makes the Screenshots Go Pop 🎉
Flair not only enhances visual appeal but also grabs user attention, ultimately leading to more downloads by effectively communicating the key features and benefits of your app. When your app's presentation stands out with distinctive flair, it not only attracts users visually but also persuades them by highlighting what sets your app apart and why it's worth their download. This combination of visual appeal and clear communication can significantly increase user engagement and conversion rates on app store pages.
What makes good flair?
Let’s take a look at some examples to show off flair:
As you can see a recurring theme, flair mostly consists of taking app elements and making them pop in a unique way that stands out for the user to see. It’s really as simple as that.
Screenshots can be overwhelming already. Especially if someone is staring at several different components of your screenshot but it’s only talking about one part of it.
Understanding Your App Can Take Longer Without Flair
This Screenshot Confuses More Than Helps, Here’s Why:
“Sleep Better”,
Ok that works, but then it states:
“The world’s largest sleep library with 100’s of coaches".
So, are coaches helping you sleep now?
It’s all tied into the sleeping element that started the app, but now it’s telling me two different things. Do I need coaches to sleep with this app or not?
Next, it shows four different methods that are too small to make out and hard to read: Meditation, Stories, Hypnosis, and Soundscapes. So, do all of these help me sleep? I have no clue.
This is where flair becomes crucial. Flair helps your screenshot story stand out, allowing users to quickly learn and understand. Within just a few seconds, users decide whether to stay or leave your app page, largely based on the clarity and impact of your screenshots.
Titles of your Screenshots Make The Difference
Simple titles within screenshots have immense power to hook in users by quickly conveying the core benefits or features of your app. Clear and concise titles grab attention instantly, guiding users to understand what your app offers and why they should explore further. This straightforward approach can significantly enhance user engagement and increase downloads on app store pages.
Highlighting key parts of your title reaps rewards
Lets look at a before and after of an app that took in consideration the tips I’ve suggested.
Before:
(apologies for the blur)
After:
There are significant differences. Let’s go over a few of them here:
Clearer titles
Concise subtitles
Direct, powerful statements over sentences
Visually superior compared to older titles almost blending into the screenshot
These are some of the noticeable differences we can all see. This was an amazing great start after the initial review.
My #1 Rule on Effective Screenshots, A/B Test.
So you’re doing everything right, adding the right amount of flair, social proofing, and balance between colors, etc. How do you know if your screenshots are actually working?
My favorite thing is to A/B test screenshots right in App Store Connect, because it gives you real data to work with. It's not just about guessing; it literally shows you which screenshots are performing better than others. This helps you understand what resonates most with your audience and optimize your app store presence for maximum impact.
What Now?
Go out there and improve your app’s screenshots using effective elements that what’s working today.
If you still need help with your screenshots or ASO efforts, let’s chat. I’ve opened my discovery calls for new app founders to schedule with me and learn more about improving their ASO strategies.
