If you’re an iPhone/iPad/macOS user, you’ve definitely opened the official App Store app and seen editorial stories showing up (App of the Day, Ramadan Essentials, special collections, etc.). Many developers have seen a spike in downloads through these, and these were done by the App Store editorial team. However, there was never any process set on how they could apply for it.

Back at WWDC24, Apple announced it as Feature Nominations that would be available with the release of iOS18. This would give developers the opportunity to highlight significant features/events/etc. in their app to be featured on the Today tab of the App Store.

From placements like “App of the Day” and ‘pre-order highlights’ to curated lists/collections and even the Editors Choice, the playing field is now open to better promote apps on all supported Apple platforms. This also adds additional app marketing opportunities, joining the paid Search Ads.

While apps from major tech names to even small/indie developers have been featured by Apple on the App Store, the opportunity looks very enticing.

Process and Criteria

Any current Apple Developer (iOS/iPadOS/macOS) will need to use the Featuring Nominations in App Store Connect, whether doing it for an individual app or multiple apps in bulk (by using a spreadsheet). Developers can inform the review team on three different types of updates: new content, app enhancements, or new app launch.

Featuring lead time varies and Apple recommends submitting a nomination up to three months in advance for wider featuring considerations. The criteria listed on the Apple Developer portal has provided as a guide used to evaluate such requests:

• User experience. Cohesive, efficient, and valuable functionality that’s helpful and easy to use.
• UI design. Great usability, appeal, and overall quality, such as beautiful visuals or intuitive gestures and controls.
• Innovation. New technologies that solve a unique problem and provide an enhanced user experience.
• Uniqueness. A fresh approach to a familiar category that stands out from the crowd or defines a new genre.
• Accessibility. A great experience for a broad range of users with well integrated features..
• Localization. High-quality support for multiple languages with culturally relevant and appropriate content.
• App Store product page. Compelling screenshots, app previews, and descriptions, as well as positive ratings and reviews.

Those who are submitting games for consideration will also have the below additional criteria added:

• Gameplay design
• Art and animation
• Controls
• Story and characters (if applicable)
• Replayability (if applicable)
• Sound design and music
• Technical performance
• Overall value

What’s next?

Developers whose apps may be considered for App Store features would then be contacted with a request for promotional assets (depending on the platform). Once your app/game is scheduled to be featured in select placements on the Today tab, developers will receive a notification on the App Store Connect app. They’ll be able to chose from various visual assets for easy sharing across different social media platforms to encourage downloads.

While it’s been a few years since Apple had added official support for the Arabic language in iOS13 to the App Store, it’ll be a great regional addition to see apps being featured in Arabic.

Steps on nominating your app have been listed on the Apple Developer site.