Apple has introduced a new feature called “Featuring Nominations” within App Store Connect, providing developers with an enhanced opportunity to gain visibility in the App Store spotlight.
In an announcement on Apple’s developer website, the company stated:
“Share your app or game’s upcoming content and enhancements for App Store featuring consideration with new Featuring Nominations in App Store Connect. Submit a nomination to inform our team about a new launch, in-app content, or added functionality. If your app is featured in select placements on the Today tab, you will also receive a notification via the App Store Connect app.
Additionally, you can highlight your app or game’s significant moments—such as a launch, new version, or select featuring placements on the App Store—with ready-made marketing assets. Use the App Store Connect app to create Apple-designed assets and share them on your social media channels. Include the provided link with your assets to make it easy for users to download your app or game from the App Store.”
Previously, the decision to feature apps in prominent showcases was solely in the hands of Apple’s App Store editorial team. With this new system, developers can actively nominate their apps, updates, or new features for consideration, reducing the uncertainty associated with waiting for editorial recognition.
Developers can now utilize the nominations dashboard within App Store Connect to submit specific features of their apps or games for consideration. For larger publishers with multiple releases, there is also the option to upload spreadsheets for bulk nominations.
Apple encourages developers to select memorable names for their nominations, which should clearly indicate the focus of the update or new content. Each nomination must be accompanied by a detailed description that provides specific information about the update and its expected launch date.
In addition, a “Helpful Details” section allows developers to include further context, such as the app’s development story, unique features, accessibility improvements, or innovative uses of developer tools. This extra information offers valuable insight into the app and highlights its strengths to the App Store editorial team.
When an app is chosen for featuring, developers will receive a notification within App Store Connect. This notification includes a link to a dedicated page where they can access promotional assets designed to maximize the impact of their featured status. These assets enable developers to swiftly share the news across social media and other marketing channels, driving traffic to their apps.
Apple also intends to provide marketing materials for other significant moments in an app’s lifecycle, such as initial launches or major updates, ensuring ongoing support for developers’ success.