Apple management has recognized that it is worth working on improving the search in the online App Store. Now developers of applications for iPhone and iPod touch must, when downloading their programs to the resource using iTunes Connect, enter keywords (up to 225 characters) with which consumers will be able to find and download the applications they need.
The need for improved search has existed for a long time, because there are more than 65 thousand different applications in the App Store. Even Apple CEO Tim Cook confirmed this during the last conference dedicated to the company's financial results. "As you know, we do this [categorize programs] by application type, highlighting the most popular, the best–selling, and so on," Mr. Cook said.
An example of what needs to be improved by user search is the search results on the App Store website for the query "EA" (Electronic Arts brand). Instead of applications from this company, the search gave out 15 games from the developer Digital Chocolate among the first results. And all because the abbreviation "ea" meant at that time "each" – "everyone".
In addition, outside observers also criticized the search in the App Store, more precisely, its inconsistency. Among them is analyst Charlie Wolf from the analytical company Needham & Co. In his opinion, consumers need to be attracted by a unique experience of buying programs in the App Store, which other third-party online stores will not offer. Wolfe also argues that it is necessary to single out applications in a separate category, because of which many users buy Apple products - smartphones and iPods.
Thus, the innovation should be considered an answer to the pleas of consumers and the comments of analysts, as well as a chance that users will now use the App Store more often, more actively and more effectively.
