ASO Checklist 2026: Pre-Launch to First 10K Downloads
Launching an app without ASO is like opening a store with no sign on the door. This checklist covers everything from pre-launch research to your first 10,000 organic downloads.
Phase 1: Pre-Launch (2-4 Weeks Before)
1. Research 50+ keywords using keyword research tools
2. Analyze top 5 competitors' metadata with competitor tracking
3. Choose your primary category strategically
4. Write a keyword-optimized title (max 30 chars)
5. Write a compelling subtitle (max 30 chars)
6. Fill the 100-character keyword field (see our guide)
7. Write a conversion-focused description
8. Design 6-10 screenshots with text overlays
9. Create a 15-30 second video preview
10. Set up localization for key markets
Phase 2: Launch Week
11. Submit app and verify all metadata renders correctly
12. Set up daily rank monitoring for your keywords
13. Enable review monitoring and response templates
14. Share with beta testers for initial reviews
15. Submit to App Store feature consideration
Critical: Do NOT change your keywords in the first 2 weeks. Apple needs time to index your initial metadata. Changing too quickly resets the process.
Phase 3: First 30 Days
16. Analyze which keywords you're actually ranking for
17. Identify quick-win keywords (ranked 10-50 that could reach top 10)
18. A/B test screenshots if possible
19. Respond to every review within 24 hours
20. Monitor competitor keyword changes
Phase 4: Growth (30-90 Days)
21. Iterate keywords based on ranking data
22. Add localization for 3-5 additional markets
23. Refresh screenshots quarterly
24. Build backlinks for external traffic
25. Consider Apple Search Ads for competitive keywords
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