How I Improved My App's Conversion Rate in 2 Weeks
Indie Developer Log #8
May 5, 2025 – June 8, 2025
This update covers three main areas: successful A/B testing of new app screenshots that focus on user benefits rather than features, Apple's recent quiet changes to App Store search rankings (which have actually helped the app), and current development work on remote config systems and Pro subscription features. I also share my top ASO tool recommendations for other developers dealing with these ranking changes.
App screenshot improvements
I ran a two-week test in App Store Connect to compare the old screenshots for Jigger: Cocktail Drink Recipes with a new, redesigned set. The early results look promising and show real improvements:
Why the new design wins
Show Value First, Features Second – the main screenshot now says "Your Smart Cocktail Companion" next to a colorful drink image. This immediately tells people the app will save them time, instead of just showing boring app screens.
Build Trust Right Away – I put a 4.9-star rating badge on the first screenshot and added real user reviews on the last one. This shows people that others already love the app.
Focus on What Users Get – instead of listing technical features, I wrote simple headlines that show benefits: "Tap Filter – Cheers!" and "Stress-Free Party Planner". People care more about what the app does for them than how it works.
Make Everything Look Good Together – I added a warm gold effect to the dark theme, which makes the screenshots stand out better in the App Store grid and look more professional.
The new screenshots are clearly working better than the old ones, so I decided to roll out this update on both the App Store and Google Play Store.
Apple changed how apps get ranked
On June 6, 2025, Apple quietly changed how App Store search works. They didn't announce it publicly, but many app developers noticed their rankings had suddenly shifted around. This change happened at the same time as Apple's security updates and their new focus on personalized "winner-takes-most" listings.
For Jigger, this change has actually been helpful rather than harmful. This proves that my App Store optimization (ASO) strategy is working well 🎉
WWDC is happening today, so I'm hoping Apple will share more details about how to improve app visibility. I plan to be one of the first cocktail app developers to try out any new features they announce.
What is in development
This month, I'm adding a remote config system that will let me run A/B tests and put new features behind feature flags. This means I can test changes safely and turn them off quickly if something goes wrong.
I'm also adding in-app purchases using RevenueCat. My plan is to create a Pro subscription that gives users unlimited access to cocktails, my bar management, party planning tools, and many more features that I'll add over time.
Recommendations
Because of Apple's recent ranking changes, I strongly recommend keeping a close eye on your app's keywords. Here are the two tools I use and trust most:
Astro – I continue suggesting this app, as it’s a cheap way to improve your app's ASO. It’s not perfect, for sure, but it’s better than nothing.
Ariel from Appfigures – YouTube channel offering tips and tricks for enhancing app ASO through real-world applications, providing feedback and suggestions.
Thanks for reading this far! If you found this helpful, please don't forget to recommend the Jigger app to your friends 🍸
The app continues to grow, and these improvements in screenshots and ASO strategy are helping more people discover it. I'll keep sharing what I learn as I continue building and improving the app.
30% bump in conversions!
Congrats on the jump