Get more App Store ratings for a new app: Tips & tricks
We previously discussed keyword research and why it is vital for ranking on the App Store.
Another significant factor for achieving and maintaining high rankings is a consistent flow of ratings. Unlike keyword research, which happens before development, gathering ratings is an ongoing process that starts after launch.
Getting ratings without downloads is difficult, and getting downloads without ratings is equally challenging. Fortunately, Apple provides a boost for new apps, which you can leverage to secure your first reviews.
As a general rule, 1-2% of users will rate your app when prompted. To improve these odds, we can employ several strategies.
- Ask friends & family
- Onboarding rating prompt
- Rating prompt after core interaction
- Rating prompt after paywall purchase
- Push notification ratings
- Results
1. Ask friends & family
This is the most straightforward step. Ask everyone in your network to install your app and leave a rating.
Tip: Do not send a direct link. instead, ask them to search for your app using your main keyword. It helps even more if they write a review.
2. Onboarding rating prompt
Request a rating during onboarding, but only after the user has experienced some value. Ensure this happens before they hit a paywall.
Consider the QUITTR example. They use several tactics to encourage positive ratings:
- The prompt appears on screen #26 (near the end of onboarding).
- Subconscious cues, like 5-star imagery, are placed throughout.
- They display positive reviews from other users.
- Phrases like "This app was designed for people like you" make users feel they are in the right place.
3. Rating prompt after core interaction
Trigger the rating request immediately after the user completes a key action in your app.
Examples:
- Workout tracker: After finishing a workout.
- Calorie tracker: After the first food scan.
- Learning app: After completing the first lesson.
You can prompt more than once—for instance, after the first use and again after a set number of interactions.
4. Rating prompt after paywall purchase
This is a safer variation of the previous method. The logic is similar, but the prompt appears after the paywall. Users who have just purchased your product are generally more inclined to leave a positive review.
5. Push notification ratings
If a user ignores your in-app prompts, you can try reaching them via push notification. This is less intrusive than interrupting their workflow and can be effective.
Apps like Duolingo use this strategy well.
6. Results
By implementing these strategies, you can significantly increase your rating volume. More ratings lead to better visibility, which drives more downloads—creating a positive feedback loop for your app's growth.