Introduction

Imagine this: You’ve built an amazing app, but no one is downloading it. At the same time, your website isn’t bringing in the traffic you expected. What’s missing? ASO and SEO—two powerful strategies that can make your app and website more discoverable.

Most people know about SEO (Search Engine Optimization)—the process of getting a website to rank higher on Google. But fewer understand ASO (App Store Optimization), which helps apps rank in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

If you have both a website and an app, you can’t afford to focus on just one. SEO and ASO work together to drive traffic, improve conversions, and grow your brand. In this article, we’ll break down the key differences between ASO and SEO, why both are essential, and how you can use them together for maximum impact.

What is SEO? How Websites Rank on Google

SEO is all about getting your website to appear higher in search results when people look for something online.

Key SEO Ranking Factors:

• Keywords – The words and phrases people type into search engines.
• Content Quality – Helpful, engaging, and relevant blog posts, articles, or web pages.
• Backlinks – Links from other trusted websites that signal authority.
• User Experience (UX) – Fast-loading pages, mobile-friendly design, and easy navigation.
• Google’s Algorithms – AI-driven updates (like BERT and RankBrain) that determine rankings.

Example:

If you run a fitness website and write an article titled “Best Workout Routines for Beginners”, SEO helps it appear on Google when someone searches for that phrase.

But what if you also have a fitness app? That’s where ASO comes in.

What is ASO? How Apps Rank in App Stores

ASO is SEO for mobile apps. Instead of ranking on Google, ASO helps apps appear in search results on the App Store (Apple) and Google Play (Android).

Key ASO Ranking Factors:

• App Title & Subtitle – Keywords in the app name help it rank (e.g., FitPro: Home Workout App).
• App Description – A well-written, keyword-rich description improves searchability.
• App Icon & Screenshots – High-quality visuals encourage downloads.
• Reviews & Ratings – More positive reviews = higher rankings.
• App Engagement – Frequent updates, active users, and low uninstall rates boost rankings.

Example:

If you have a meditation app, ASO ensures that when someone searches “best meditation app” in the App Store, your app appears at the top.

Now, let’s look at the key differences between SEO and ASO.

ASO vs. SEO: What’s the Difference?

At first glance, SEO and ASO seem like separate strategies. But smart businesses use both to grow their online presence.

Why Businesses Need Both ASO and SEO

1. Get More Traffic & Downloads

Your website can help drive traffic to your app. If someone finds your blog post via Google, you can direct them to download your app.

Example: A budgeting website ranks for “best personal finance tips” and includes a call-to-action (CTA) for their budgeting app.

2. Build Trust & Brand Authority

A strong SEO strategy improves brand credibility, making users more likely to trust your app.

Example: If your brand appears in Google search results with helpful content, users will feel more confident about downloading your app.

3. Boost App Reviews & Rankings with Website Traffic

SEO can help you attract the right audience, leading to better app reviews and higher ASO rankings.

Example: A language-learning app that ranks on Google for “how to learn Spanish fast” can get users who are genuinely interested, leading to positive reviews in the app store.

4. Web SEO Can Improve App Rankings

High-quality backlinks from authority sites boost both website and app credibility.

Example: Getting featured on TechCrunch or Forbes can improve both website traffic and app downloads.

5. Voice Search & AI Are Blurring the Lines

With AI-driven search (Siri, Google Assistant, Alexa), app discovery is happening outside of app stores. Optimizing for voice search means more users find your app through Google.

Example: Someone says, “Hey Siri, what’s the best meditation app?” If your website ranks for this, they might end up downloading your app.

How to Use SEO & ASO Together for Maximum Visibility

1. Optimize Your Website for App Discovery

• Add an app landing page with download links.

• Use app-related keywords in blog content.

2. Leverage Content Marketing for Both SEO & ASO

• Write blog posts, guides, and tutorials that naturally lead to your app.

• Use YouTube & social media to showcase your app.

3. Use Schema Markup for App Listings

• Add App Schema Markup so Google displays your app in search results.

4. Encourage Reviews via Your Website & Email

• Ask satisfied website visitors to leave an app review.

• Use pop-ups or email marketing to promote app engagement.

Conclusion

ASO and SEO aren’t competing strategies—they work together to increase visibility, traffic, and downloads.

• SEO helps people find your website.
• ASO helps people find your app.
• Using both creates a powerful digital presence.

Ready to optimize both your app and website? Start today and watch your business grow!