Apple Introduces New Feature for Developers to Nominate Apps for App Store Editorial Spotlight

At WWDC 2024, Apple announced an exciting update for app developers, giving them a streamlined way to get their apps recognized on the App Store. Starting with the release of iOS 18 in September, developers will be able to directly inform Apple's Editorial team about new content or features in their apps for a chance to be featured.

Currently, the App Store’s Editorial team highlights apps and creates stories about them without a formal submission process. With the introduction of "Featuring Nominations," developers can now submit their apps for editorial consideration via the App Store Connect platform. This new feature allows developers to nominate their apps individually or in bulk through a new Nominations dashboard, using memorable names and detailed descriptions to catch the editors' attention.

Developers can nominate their apps for new content, app enhancements, or new launches. The nominations include details about the update, expected publish dates, and additional helpful information such as the developer’s story or the app’s unique features. If an app is selected for featuring, developers will receive a push notification and access to new "Promote Your App" marketing assets for social media sharing.

Additionally, Apple announced updates to TestFlight, including new customization options for selecting testers based on specific criteria and the ability to create deep links to custom product pages for targeted advertising.

iOS 18 will be available to the public later this fall, bringing these exciting new opportunities for developers.