# Sonar — App Store Optimization Tool

> ASO platform for keyword research, difficulty analysis, rank tracking, and competitor intelligence. Built for indie developers and small teams managing app portfolios on iOS App Store and Google Play.

## Key Pages

- [Homepage](https://trysonar.app): Product overview, pricing, and feature summary
- [About](https://trysonar.app/about): What Sonar is, who builds it, and where the data comes from
- [API & Agents](https://trysonar.app/agents): REST API + MCP server + CLI for AI agents — pay-as-you-go with prepaid credit packs (from $10)
- [ASO API](https://trysonar.app/aso-api): REST API for keyword difficulty, Apple-reported popularity, rankings, reviews, ASO scores — free tier needs no API key
- [ASO MCP Server](https://trysonar.app/aso-mcp): Official MCP server for Claude, Cursor, Cline & any MCP client — hosted endpoint or npm, works keyless in free mode
- [ASO CLI](https://trysonar.app/aso-cli): Terminal tool for keyword research, rank exports, and CI checks (@sonarapp/cli)
- [MCP Server Setup](https://trysonar.app/docs/mcp): How to install @sonarapp/mcp in Claude Desktop, Claude Code, Cursor, and Cline
- [API Documentation](https://trysonar.app/docs/api): REST API reference with endpoints, auth, and examples
- [API Authentication](https://trysonar.app/docs/api/authentication): Auth docs — API keys (Bearer aso_…), OAuth 2.0 access tokens, anonymous free tier
- [CLI Documentation](https://trysonar.app/docs/cli): Command-line tool (@sonarapp/cli) usage and configuration
- [Tools](https://trysonar.app/tools): Free ASO tools (ASO score checker, keyword generator)
- [Blog](https://trysonar.app/blog): ASO guides, keyword research strategies, and app marketing content
- [ASO Guides](https://trysonar.app/aso-guides): Category-specific ASO guides for iOS and Android
- [Keyword Difficulty Data](https://trysonar.app/keyword-difficulty): Free keyword difficulty lookups with live top-10 app data per keyword, store, and country
- [How We Check Our Data](https://trysonar.app/data-accuracy): Data validation methodology — Apple-reported iOS popularity, iOS rankings validated against DataForSEO, Android calibration numbers
- [State of Sonar](https://trysonar.app/state-of-sonar): Recurring usage report with real platform data (developers, API calls, AI-agent share, iOS vs Android split)
- [Best ASO Tools 2026](https://trysonar.app/blog/best-aso-tools): Buyer's guide comparing leading ASO platforms
- [Sonar vs Competitors](https://trysonar.app/vs): Side-by-side comparisons — [Sensor Tower](https://trysonar.app/vs/sensor-tower), [AppTweak](https://trysonar.app/vs/apptweak), [AppFigures](https://trysonar.app/vs/appfigures), [AppFollow](https://trysonar.app/vs/appfollow), [ASOdesk](https://trysonar.app/vs/asodesk), [Astro](https://trysonar.app/vs/astro), [Mobile Action](https://trysonar.app/vs/mobile-action)
- [ASO Tool Alternatives](https://trysonar.app/alternatives): Alternatives to popular ASO platforms
- [Changelog](https://trysonar.app/changelog): Product updates and release notes

## Raw Markdown for Any Content Page

Every content page is available as plain markdown by appending `.md` to its
URL — no HTML, no navigation chrome, no JavaScript:

- `https://trysonar.app/blog/{slug}.md` — any blog article
- `https://trysonar.app/keyword-difficulty/{keyword}/{store}/{country}.md` — any keyword difficulty page

The same pages (plus the homepage) also honor `Accept: text/markdown`
content negotiation on their canonical URLs, and unknown paths requested with
that header return a markdown 404 with recovery links.

Prefer these when ingesting content; the HTML pages carry the same text.

## Blog Articles (118)

Full archive at https://trysonar.app/blog (paginated) and https://trysonar.app/feed.xml (RSS). Listed
newest first. Every article is also available as raw markdown — append
`.md` to any of these URLs.

- [Case study: why I dropped a popular keyword from my App Store title](https://trysonar.app/blog/reelmeal-app-title-case-study): ReelMeal's US App Store page got impressions from 'recipe keeper' but converted at 0.19%. The data behind re-anchoring the title on 'video to recipe', and what changed after.
- [App Store trends: weekly chart and search data](https://trysonar.app/blog/app-store-trends): Short-drama apps VibeShort and DramaWave climbed on both US app stores. This page updates every Tuesday with fresh US App Store and Google Play chart data.
- [App Not Showing Up in the App Store? A 3-Check Fix](https://trysonar.app/blog/app-not-showing-in-app-store-search): App not showing up in App Store search, even by its exact name? Check indexing per storefront, then your rank on your own name, then autocorrect, in that order.
- [Apple Offer Codes vs Win-Back & Promotional Offers](https://trysonar.app/blog/apple-subscription-offers-compared): Apple offer codes, win-back, promotional and introductory offers compared: eligibility, App Store Connect limits, StoreKit 2 APIs, and how to measure real lift.
- [App Store Age Rating: New Tiers and Questionnaire](https://trysonar.app/blog/app-store-age-rating): How the app store age rating works now: the 4+ to 18+ tiers, the new questionnaire, social media questions, and how to set or change it in App Store Connect.
- [Apple Search Ads Reporting: Export to Sheets & BI](https://trysonar.app/blog/apple-search-ads-reporting-export): Apple Search Ads reporting export guide: pull campaign and keyword reports via Apple's API into Google Sheets, Looker Studio, BigQuery or Redshift, with code.
- [Build Your Own ASO Dashboard: Data & Stack](https://trysonar.app/blog/build-your-own-aso-dashboard): How to build an ASO dashboard: which metrics come from App Store Connect and Play Console, which need a keyword API, plus a starter stack and cadence.
- [Apple Search Ads Cost: CPT, CPI & Indie Budgets](https://trysonar.app/blog/apple-search-ads-cost): Apple Search Ads cost explained for 2026: how the tap auction prices CPT, how to turn CPT into CPI, and what $5, $20 or $50 a day buys an indie iOS app.
- [Google Play Feature Graphic: Size, Specs & Design Tips](https://trysonar.app/blog/google-play-feature-graphic): The Google Play feature graphic spec: 1024×500 JPEG or 24-bit PNG, cutoff zones, where it renders in 2026, what Google bans, and design patterns by category.
- [App cross-promotion: move users between your apps](https://trysonar.app/blog/app-cross-promotion): App cross promotion for indie portfolios: what Apple and Google allow, in-app placements and store surfaces that work, keyword splits, and when it backfires.
- [App press release and press kit](https://trysonar.app/blog/app-press-release-and-press-kit): Write an app press release, build a useful press kit, and pitch niche media with a fictional template, launch timing checklist, and practical measurement tips.
- [App Store pre order: an iOS launch guide](https://trysonar.app/blog/app-store-pre-order-ios): Plan your App Store pre order with Apple's release windows, review steps, billing rules, and launch metrics. Build momentum without promising ranking lifts.
- [Google Play app rejected? Fixes and resubmission](https://trysonar.app/blog/google-play-app-rejected-fixes): Got your Google Play app rejected? Diagnose policy issues, fix reviewer access and data declarations, then prepare a corrected submission or an appeal.
- [How to respond to App Store reviews: templates](https://trysonar.app/blog/how-to-respond-to-app-store-reviews): Learn how to respond to app store reviews with calm templates for bugs, refunds, angry feedback, feature requests, and praise, plus Apple and Google Play steps.
- [App Soft Launch: Where, How Long & What to Measure](https://trysonar.app/blog/app-soft-launch): Plan an app soft launch with clear market choices, mature cohorts, and a measurement worksheet. Learn when to pause, iterate, or expand your public release.
- [App launch strategy: a practical indie dev sequence](https://trysonar.app/blog/app-launch-strategy): Build an app launch strategy with clear readiness decisions, solo-dev deliverables, and a practical sequence for before, during, and after your public launch.
- [Google app campaigns: indie guide](https://trysonar.app/blog/google-app-campaigns-indie-guide): Learn when Google app campaigns make sense for indie developers, how to set up conversion tracking, plan a test budget, and build creative assets that work.
- [How to Increase App Downloads (Ranked)](https://trysonar.app/blog/how-to-increase-app-downloads-ranked): A ranked guide on how to increase app downloads in 2026 — from quick ASO wins to paid UA — with real data on what moves the needle most per hour invested.
- [App Ranking Dropped? A Step-by-Step Diagnostic](https://trysonar.app/blog/app-ranking-dropped-step-by-step-diagnostic): Your app ranking dropped and you need answers fast. This diagnostic checklist walks through the 7 most common causes, how to confirm each one, and the fix.
- [App Store Impressions: What Counts & How to Grow](https://trysonar.app/blog/app-store-impressions): App store impressions measure how often your listing is seen. Learn what counts as one, what good numbers look like, and 7 ways to grow them.
- [Sensor Tower API: Docs, MCP, Pricing & Alternatives](https://trysonar.app/blog/sensor-tower-api): Sensor Tower API docs sit behind a customer login, and access costs $5K-$20K/year on top of the base contract. What it offers, its MCP server, and alternatives.
- [Generative Engine Optimization Tools (2026)](https://trysonar.app/blog/generative-engine-optimization-tools): Compare GEO tools by category — monitoring, content optimization, and hybrid — with pricing, features, and what peer-reviewed research says works.
- [Best AI Visibility Tools (2026)](https://trysonar.app/blog/best-ai-visibility-tools): Compare the best AI visibility tools for tracking your brand across ChatGPT, Perplexity, and AI Overviews — plus the gap nobody covers for mobile apps.
- [Answer Engine Optimization Tools for Apps](https://trysonar.app/blog/answer-engine-optimization-tools-for-apps): Answer engine optimization tools help apps get recommended by ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Claude. How AI assistants source app data and what you can control.
- [Keyword Installs: Why Buying Them Backfires](https://trysonar.app/blog/keyword-installs-why-buying-them-backfires): Keyword installs promise instant App Store rankings, but the boost decays fast and risks removal. Learn how they work, why they fail, and what to do instead.
- [ASO Analysis: How to Audit Your App's Store Presence](https://trysonar.app/blog/aso-analysis): A step-by-step ASO analysis framework covering metadata audits, keyword gaps, competitor benchmarking, and conversion assets. Includes real scoring examples.
- [Best Appfigures Alternatives for ASO (2026)](https://trysonar.app/blog/best-appfigures-alternatives-for-aso): Looking for an Appfigures alternative? We compare 5 ASO tools on keyword difficulty, Apple popularity scores, API access, and pricing starting at $9/month.
- [Best AppTweak Alternatives for ASO (2026)](https://trysonar.app/blog/best-apptweak-alternatives-for-aso): Looking for an AppTweak alternative for ASO? We compare 5 tools side by side — pricing from $9/month, keyword data accuracy, API access, and CLI/MCP support.
- [App Store Featuring: How Apple Picks Apps](https://trysonar.app/blog/app-store-featuring-how-apple-picks-apps): Learn how App Store featuring works, how to nominate your app, and what Apple's editorial team actually looks for. A data-backed guide to earning a feature.
- [App Store Rejection: Common Reasons and Fixes](https://trysonar.app/blog/app-store-rejection-common-reasons-and-fixes): Every major app store rejection reason explained with the specific fix for each. Avoid review delays that cost you ASO ranking momentum and real downloads.
- [Best Sensor Tower Alternatives (2026)](https://trysonar.app/blog/sensor-tower-alternatives): Looking for sensor tower alternatives? 5 indie-friendly ASO tools compared side by side — pricing from $29/mo, feature coverage, API access, and accuracy.
- [Apple Search Ads API: Platform API Guide](https://trysonar.app/blog/apple-ads-platform-api-guide): A hands-on guide to the Apple Ads Platform API — authentication, the search-term popularity endpoint, migration from v4/v5, and what the data actually covers.
- [Mobile Measurement Partner: Do You Need One?](https://trysonar.app/blog/mobile-measurement-partner-do-you-need-one): Not every app needs a mobile measurement partner. Learn when an MMP pays for itself, when SKAdNetwork is enough, and where the indie spending threshold falls.
- [App Revenue Estimates: How They Work (and Fail)](https://trysonar.app/blog/app-revenue-estimates-how-they-work-and-fail): App revenue estimates can miss actual numbers by 2×+. Learn how tools calculate them, how to check an app's revenue estimate, and when to trust it.
- [App Icon Design: What Actually Gets Tapped](https://trysonar.app/blog/app-icon-design-what-actually-gets-tapped): App icon design decides whether users tap or scroll past your listing. Data-backed rules for designing icons that convert at 60px in App Store search.
- [App Monetization Strategy: 4 Models Compared](https://trysonar.app/blog/app-monetization-strategy-models-compared): Subscription, IAP, ads, or paid? Compare every app monetization strategy with real revenue data, conversion benchmarks, and ASO implications for 2026.
- [App Onboarding That Protects Day-1 Retention](https://trysonar.app/blog/app-onboarding-that-protects-day-1-retention): App onboarding decides whether new users stay or churn. Learn the screens, flows, and data-backed patterns that protect Day-1 retention and downstream revenue.
- [Mobile App Analytics: The Indie Dev Stack](https://trysonar.app/blog/mobile-app-analytics-indie-dev-stack): Build your mobile app analytics stack from scratch — what App Store Connect and Play Console give free, which SDK to pick, and the 6 events that matter.
- [App Release Notes That Do Real ASO Work](https://trysonar.app/blog/app-release-notes): App release notes are an indexed, conversion-bearing surface most developers ignore. Learn what Apple and Google index, plus templates and cadence tips.
- [Mobile App Promotion: Channels Ranked by CPI](https://trysonar.app/blog/mobile-app-promotion-channels-ranked-by-cpi): Honest mobile app promotion channel ranking for indie developers — ASO, Search Ads, creators, communities, and PR rated by realistic cost per install.
- [Mobile App Landing Page That Converts](https://trysonar.app/blog/mobile-app-landing-page): Your mobile app landing page pre-qualifies users before they hit the store. Learn copy strategy, smart banners, deferred deep links, and ASO alignment.
- [User Acquisition Cost: What CAC Includes](https://trysonar.app/blog/user-acquisition-cost): User acquisition cost goes beyond ad spend divided by installs. Learn what CAC actually includes, how blended vs paid metrics differ, and where ASO cuts it.
- [ASO Free Trials Compared 2026: Which Tools Let You Try Before Paying](https://trysonar.app/blog/aso-free-trial): Every major ASO tool's free trial and free tier compared — length, credit card requirement, and what's actually unlocked. Plus which tools have no trial at all.
- [FoxData Pricing 2026: All Four Plans Compared](https://trysonar.app/blog/foxdata-pricing): FoxData pricing starts at $9.90/month for Starter and runs to $159/month for Growth. Full 2026 tier breakdown with limits, billing discounts, and how it compares.
- [MobileAction Pricing 2026: All Plans, Modules & Real Costs](https://trysonar.app/blog/mobileaction-pricing): MobileAction pricing starts at $15/month for the Lite ASO plan. Full 2026 breakdown of every tier, the sales-gated modules, the free Apple Ads tool, and alternatives.
- [App Store Rank Tracking API: Monitor Rankings](https://trysonar.app/blog/app-store-rank-tracking-api): An app ranking API lets you monitor keyword positions programmatically. Set up tracking, pull daily history, and alert on drops — no scrapers needed.
- [App Store Keyword API: Difficulty & Popularity](https://trysonar.app/blog/app-store-keyword-api-difficulty-and-popularity): Fetch app store keyword API data programmatically: difficulty, Apple-reported popularity, and bulk metrics via curl, JavaScript, and Python with code samples.
- [Best AI ASO Tools (2026): What Works Today](https://trysonar.app/blog/best-ai-aso-tools-2026): I tested 11 ai aso tool options across three categories in 2026. Here is what actually connects to live App Store data — and what just generates text.
- [Automate ASO with Claude: MCP Setup Guide](https://trysonar.app/blog/automate-aso-with-claude-mcp-setup-guide): Learn how to automate ASO with Claude using the Sonar MCP server. Step-by-step setup, real prompt transcripts, and upgrade paths for AI-powered keyword research.
- [ASO APIs Compared (2026): Pricing & Data](https://trysonar.app/blog/aso-apis-compared-2026-pricing-and-data): Five ASO API options compared for 2026 — pricing, data sources, rate limits, and free tiers across Sonar, AppTweak, Appfigures, ASOMobile, and aso npm.
- [Best ASO MCP Servers Compared (2026)](https://trysonar.app/blog/best-aso-mcp-servers-compared-2026): Compare the top ASO MCP servers for 2026 — Sonar, aso-mcp, mcp-appstore, AppSprint and more. Data quality, hosting model, pricing, and tool counts side by side.
- [Mobile App Marketing Strategy: 90-Day Plan](https://trysonar.app/blog/mobile-app-marketing-strategy-90-day-plan): A practical mobile app marketing strategy broken into a 90-day plan for indie devs. Covers ASO, keyword research, reviews, paid ads, and the KPIs that matter.
- [Best App Store Optimization Companies (2026)](https://trysonar.app/blog/best-aso-agencies): Ranked list of the best app store optimization companies in 2026, with real pricing data, strengths and weaknesses, which ones also offer web SEO, and when a self-serve ASO tool is enough.
- [Best App Marketing Companies & Agencies (2026)](https://trysonar.app/blog/best-app-marketing-agencies): The best app marketing agencies charge $3,000–$25,000+/month. Compare 7 top app marketing companies, their services and costs — plus the DIY alternative.
- [Best App Radar Alternatives for ASO (2026)](https://trysonar.app/blog/best-app-radar-alternatives-for-aso): Looking for an app radar alternative for ASO? We compare 5 tools side by side — pricing from $29/mo, keyword data, API access, store coverage, CLI, and more.
- [ASOmobile Alternatives: Features & Pricing](https://trysonar.app/blog/asomobile-alternatives): Looking for an ASOmobile alternative? We compare 5 ASO tools side by side — pricing from $29/mo, keyword data, API access, store coverage, and CLI support.
- [Best FoxData Alternatives for ASO (2026)](https://trysonar.app/blog/best-foxdata-alternatives-for-aso): Searching for a FoxData alternative for ASO? We compare 5 tools side by side — pricing from $29/mo, platform coverage, API access, and keyword data.
- [App Store Optimization Marketing: The Funnel](https://trysonar.app/blog/app-store-optimization-marketing-funnel): Learn where app store optimization marketing fits in your growth funnel, from awareness to retention, with real keyword data and stage-by-stage tactics.
- [App Store Keyword Research: A 6-Step Workflow](https://trysonar.app/blog/app-store-keyword-research-6-step-workflow): A repeatable app store keyword research workflow with cross-platform data — from seed lists to difficulty scoring, competitor analysis, and iteration.
- [How to Optimize App Store Search Results](https://trysonar.app/blog/how-to-optimize-app-store-search-results): Learn how to optimize app store search results by understanding how organic rankings and ads interact on the iOS search page — with real keyword data.
- [App Store Optimization Specialist: Full Guide](https://trysonar.app/blog/app-store-optimization-specialist-role): What does an app store optimization specialist (or expert) actually do? Core responsibilities, skills, salary benchmarks, career path, and when hiring one makes sense for your app.
- [Mobile App Marketing Automation with Agents](https://trysonar.app/blog/app-marketing-automation-agents): Learn how mobile app marketing automation agents scale ASO and UA workflows — from keyword monitoring to cross-platform opportunity detection.
- [Astro ASO Alternatives: 5 Cross-Platform Tools (2026)](https://trysonar.app/blog/astro-aso-alternatives): Looking for an Astro ASO alternative? Compare 5 cross-platform tools that cover Android, offer APIs, and track keywords daily — with pricing and data.
- [How to Make App Store Screenshots That Convert](https://trysonar.app/blog/how-to-make-app-store-screenshots-that-convert): Learn how to make app store screenshots that convert browsers into downloaders. Covers layout, color, sequencing, and visual hierarchy beyond just captions.
- [Apple Search Ads vs Google Ads: Where to Spend](https://trysonar.app/blog/apple-search-ads-vs-google-ads): Apple Search Ads vs Google Ads compared on targeting, cost, and privacy. A data-backed framework for deciding where to spend your first app-install budget.
- [Apple Search Ads Attribution With AppsFlyer](https://trysonar.app/blog/apple-search-ads-attribution-with-appsflyer): Learn how Apple Search Ads AppsFlyer integration, SKAN 4.0, and conversion tracking work together to measure true campaign ROI — setup, pitfalls, strategy.
- [How to Set Up Apple Search Ads: Step by Step](https://trysonar.app/blog/how-to-set-up-apple-search-ads): Learn how to set up Apple Search Ads from account creation to your first live campaign. Covers keywords, bids, match types, and budget — with real ASO data.
- [Apple Search Ads Match Types Explained](https://trysonar.app/blog/apple-search-ads-match-types-explained): Learn how Apple Search Ads match types work — broad match, exact match, Search Match, and negative keywords — plus real data on when to use each type.
- [Apple Search Ads Bidding: CPT, CPA & How to Set Bids](https://trysonar.app/blog/apple-search-ads-bidding): Learn how Apple Search Ads bidding works — CPT vs CPA goals, how to set competitive bids, and how keyword data prevents overspending on every tap.
- [App Store character limits: subtitle, keywords](https://trysonar.app/blog/app-store-description-character-limits-cheat-sheet): The App Store subtitle limit is 30 characters, title 30, keywords 100, description 4,000. Every iOS and Google Play character limit in one table.
- [Free ASO Keyword Tools: What They Do & Trust](https://trysonar.app/blog/free-aso-keyword-tools): Not every free ASO keyword tool gives you reliable data. Learn what each tool actually measures, where the numbers break down, and which ones to trust.
- [ASO Agency, Tool, or DIY? A Cost-Benefit Guide](https://trysonar.app/blog/aso-agency-tool-or-diy): Choosing between app store optimization services? This honest framework compares agencies, tools, and DIY ASO — with costs, time, and decision criteria.
- [How to name an app: rules, availability, ranking data](https://trysonar.app/blog/app-title-generator): How to name an app you can rank with and own: 63% of top-10 App Store names contain the searched phrase. Plus store, trademark and domain checks.
- [App Store screenshot sizes (iPhone, iPad, Play)](https://trysonar.app/blog/app-store-screenshot-sizes): Exact App Store screenshot sizes in pixels for every iPhone and iPad display class, plus Google Play specs, formats and upload limits — in one place.
- [Play Integrity API verdicts: when to enforce](https://trysonar.app/blog/play-integrity-api-when-to-enforce-when-to-skip): Play Integrity API verdicts explained — basic, device and strong integrity — and when your Android app should enforce the check or skip it.
- [Play Store categories and tags: the full list](https://trysonar.app/blog/play-store-app-tags): Every Google Play category for apps and games, plus how Play Store tags work — pick the right category and 5 tags for your Android app.
- [How Play Store ranking works: factors iOS lacks](https://trysonar.app/blog/play-store-ranking-factors-ios-doesnt-have): How Google Play ranks apps: query match first, then installs, ratings, vitals and backlinks. Plus the seven ranking factors iOS doesn't have.
- [Google Play Pre-Registration: Still Worth It?](https://trysonar.app/blog/google-play-pre-registration): Google Play pre-registration can seed day-one installs that boost early ASO rankings. Here is when it works, when to skip it, and how to maximize impact.
- [Play Console Search Analytics: Read the Data](https://trysonar.app/blog/play-console-search-analytics): Play Console search analytics can mislead you if you read them wrong. Learn what each metric actually measures, where the gaps are, and how to act on the data.
- [App Store A/B Testing: PPO and Play Experiments](https://trysonar.app/blog/play-store-listing-experiments-what-to-test): A/B test your store listing with Apple's product page optimization and Google Play experiments: what each can test, the limits, and how to read results.
- [Android App Bundle vs APK: key AAB differences](https://trysonar.app/blog/android-app-bundle-vs-apk): AAB vs APK: how an Android App Bundle differs from an APK in size, signing and sideloading — and why Google Play has required AAB since 2021.
- [Google Play Long Description: Keyword Structure](https://trysonar.app/blog/google-play-long-description-keyword-structure): Learn how to structure your Google Play ASO long description for optimal keyword density — with character limits, placement rules, and real ranking data.
- [iOS Universal App: iPad Differentiation Guide](https://trysonar.app/blog/ios-universal-app-ipad): Learn how to architect an iOS universal app for iPad differentiation. Covers adaptive layouts, split views, ASO metadata, and iPad-specific keyword strategy.
- [TestFlight Beta Testing for ASO Metadata](https://trysonar.app/blog/testflight-beta-testing-for-aso-metadata): Learn how to use TestFlight beta testing to validate App Store metadata before launch. A step-by-step strategy for titles, subtitles, keywords, and screenshots.
- [iOS Widget Extensions: Discovery and ASO Impact](https://trysonar.app/blog/ios-widget-extensions-discovery-aso-impact): iOS widget extensions create a persistent presence on home screens. Learn how widgets affect App Store discovery, retention signals, and ASO strategy.
- [StoreKit 2 Migration Checklist for iOS Devs](https://trysonar.app/blog/storekit-2-migration-checklist-for-ios-devs): A step-by-step StoreKit 2 migration checklist covering async/await APIs, server-side changes, receipt removal, testing, and ASO impact for iOS developers.
- [SwiftUI vs UIKit in 2026: When Each Wins](https://trysonar.app/blog/swiftui-vs-uikit-2026-when-each-wins): SwiftUI vs UIKit — a data-grounded comparison of when each framework wins in 2026, covering performance, hiring, iteration speed, and real shipping decisions.
- [App Store Algorithm Updates 2026: What Changed](https://trysonar.app/blog/app-store-algorithm-update-2026-what-changed): Every confirmed and observed app store algorithm update in 2026 — what shifted in ranking signals, keyword indexing, and how to adapt your ASO.
- [In-App Events for ASO: What Indie Devs Miss](https://trysonar.app/blog/in-app-events-aso-what-indie-devs-miss): In-app events add 80 indexed characters to your App Store listing. Learn how to use in-app events for ASO — metadata strategy, badge selection, and timing.
- [App Store Category Selection: A Strategic Guide](https://trysonar.app/blog/app-store-category-selection): App store category selection affects ranking, competition, and discoverability. Learn how to pick primary and secondary categories using real keyword data.
- [App Store Ratings: How They Move Rankings](https://trysonar.app/blog/app-store-ratings-how-they-move-rankings): Do ratings move App Store rankings? Sonar data on 4,629 US keyword top 10s: the #1 app out-rates #2 only half the time, and there's no 4.5-star step.
- [App Localization: Keep Home Rankings Intact](https://trysonar.app/blog/app-localization-keep-home-rankings-intact): Learn how app localization expands your reach into new markets without cannibalizing your existing keyword rankings. A data-backed ASO strategy guide.
- [Free vs Paid Apps: How ASO Strategy Changes](https://trysonar.app/blog/free-vs-paid-apps-aso): Free vs paid apps require different ASO approaches. Learn how pricing model affects keywords, conversion rates, metadata, and revenue — with real data.
- [App Store Keyword Field: What Gets Indexed](https://trysonar.app/blog/app-store-keyword-field): The app store keyword field is one of the most misunderstood ASO levers. Learn what Apple still indexes, what it ignores, and how to use all 100 characters.
- [iOS App Title Length: What Fits, What Gets Cut, and How to Use Every Character](https://trysonar.app/blog/ios-app-title-length): Apple gives you 30 characters for your iOS app title length. Learn what gets truncated in search, how to use the subtitle, and the ASO rules for 2026.
- [What Is ASO? App Store Optimization Explained](https://trysonar.app/blog/what-is-aso): 65-70% of app discoveries happen through search. ASO is how you show up. The 4 ranking inputs, 5 optimization pillars, and first steps for iOS and Google Play.
- [Apple Search Ads: The Complete Guide for Indie Developers](https://trysonar.app/blog/apple-search-ads-guide): Set up Apple Search Ads on $5-50/day: Basic vs Advanced campaigns, the 5 metrics that matter (CPT, CPI, TTR, CR, SP), and why good ASO cuts your ad costs.
- [The Complete ASO Checklist for Launching Your App in 2026](https://trysonar.app/blog/aso-launch-checklist): 23-step ASO checklist from pre-launch keyword research to your first month of rank tracking. Copy-paste ready for iOS and Android.
- [Best Free ASO Tools in 2026 (iOS + Android)](https://trysonar.app/blog/best-free-aso-tools): The best free ASO tools in 2026 — 12 options compared for keyword research, rank tracking, and competitor analysis on Android and iOS, plus honest limits.
- [Best ASO Tools for App Store Optimization (2026)](https://trysonar.app/blog/best-aso-tools): Sensor Tower ($25K/yr), AppTweak (from €79/mo), App Radar ($39/mo), and 6 more ASO tools rated on keyword quality, rank tracking, competitor analysis, and value for money.
- [How to Audit Your App Store Listing (With a Free ASO Score Tool)](https://trysonar.app/blog/aso-audit-guide): 6-area ASO audit you can finish in 30 minutes: metadata, visuals, ratings, keyword coverage, and competitive positioning. Includes a free scoring tool.
- [Mobile App Marketing: The Complete Playbook](https://trysonar.app/blog/mobile-app-marketing): 3-phase app marketing playbook (pre-launch, launch week, post-launch) for $0-500/month. Organic search drives 50-70% of lifetime installs — start there.
- [How to Find Low-Competition App Store Keywords That Actually Rank](https://trysonar.app/blog/low-competition-keywords): A step-by-step method for finding low-competition App Store and Google Play keywords a small app can win, with Sonar data on 3,510 keywords measured on both stores.
- [ASO vs SEO: What's the Difference (and Why You Need Both)](https://trysonar.app/blog/aso-vs-seo): ASO vs SEO compared across 16 dimensions — from 160-char iOS constraints to visual ranking factors. If you know SEO, here's exactly what transfers and what doesn't.
- [The Indie Developer's Guide to App Store Optimization](https://trysonar.app/blog/indie-developer-aso-guide): 65-70% of app installs come from search. Target keywords with SP 35-55 and difficulty under 35 — the sweet spot where indie apps can rank without a marketing budget.
- [A Practical Guide to App Store Metadata Optimization](https://trysonar.app/blog/metadata-optimization-guide): iOS: 30-char title + 30-char subtitle + 100-char keyword field. Android: 30-char title + 80-char short + 4,000-char long description. Field-by-field optimization for both.
- [Sensor Tower Pricing: Plans, Cost & Alternatives](https://trysonar.app/blog/sensor-tower-pricing): Sensor Tower pricing starts at ~$500/month — the median buyer pays $74K/year. Full cost breakdown by tier, hidden fees, and alternatives from $29/mo.
- [Agentic ASO: Why AI Agents Are the Future of App Store Optimization](https://trysonar.app/blog/agentic-aso-future): 4 real AI agent workflows that automate keyword research, rank monitoring, and competitor intel — and why dashboard-only ASO tools are already obsolete.
- [ASO API: CLI Workflows for Developers Who Ship](https://trysonar.app/blog/aso-api-cli-workflows): 3 copy-paste CLI workflows for weekly keyword research, competitor monitoring, and launch optimization — using 9 stateless API endpoints. No dashboard needed.
- [Apple Search Popularity Score Explained](https://trysonar.app/blog/apple-search-popularity): What Apple's Search Popularity score (5-100) actually measures, the formula to estimate daily impressions from it, and how to use it for ASO keyword research in 2026.
- [Google Play Short Description: 80 Characters](https://trysonar.app/blog/google-play-short-description): You have exactly 80 characters — Google Play's official limit and 2nd most important ranking field. 7 before/after examples showing how to fit 2-3 keywords.
- [App Store Optimization for Android: Google Play ASO Guide](https://trysonar.app/blog/android-aso-guide): Google Play ASO guide: metadata fields, ranking factors and Sonar data on 3,510 keywords measured on both stores — where Play is easier and where it isn't.
- [ASO Checklist: App Store Optimization (2026)](https://trysonar.app/blog/aso-checklist): 11-section ASO checklist for 2026 covering keyword research, title, subtitle, keyword field, promo text, description, visuals, reviews, and localization — with platform-specific steps for iOS and Android.
- [ASO KPIs: What to Track and Why](https://trysonar.app/blog/aso-kpis): 7 ASO KPIs to track: keyword rankings, search impressions, conversion rate, ratings, uninstall rate, referrals, and install attribution — with benchmarks for each app stage.
- [Game ASO: How to Optimize Your Game's App Store Listing](https://trysonar.app/blog/game-aso): Games are 75% of App Store revenue but need different ASO. Genre+mechanic keyword combos, game-specific modifiers, screenshot A/B testing, and seasonal optimization.
- [App Store Conversion Rate: How to Improve It (With Benchmarks)](https://trysonar.app/blog/app-store-conversion-rate): Average conversion rates by category (Utilities 30-40%, Games 25-35%, Social 10-20%), the 5 levers that move them, and how to A/B test on both stores.
- [How to Get More App Reviews (Without Being Annoying)](https://trysonar.app/blog/how-to-get-app-reviews): iOS allows only 3 review prompts per year. Android's quota is undocumented. Here's how to time them right using SKStoreReviewController and In-App Review API.
- [App Store Connect Analytics: What the Numbers Mean](https://trysonar.app/blog/app-store-connect-analytics): What impressions, app units and conversion rate mean in App Store Connect, which API key role pulls the reports, and the keyword data Apple leaves out.

## Keyword Difficulty Corpus (30 pages)

Free, no-signup keyword difficulty data for the US App Store and Google
Play. Every keyword page carries:

- a Sonar keyword difficulty score (0–100) computed from the live SERP
- the top 10 ranking apps for that keyword, with developer, star rating and
  review count for each
- the date the SERP was measured

URL shape: `https://trysonar.app/keyword-difficulty/{keyword-slug}/{store}/{country}`
where `{store}` is `ios` or `android` and `{country}` is `us` (other
countries exist but are noindex and excluded from this index). Append
`.md` to any keyword page URL for raw markdown.

Index page: https://trysonar.app/keyword-difficulty

Browse by category:

- [Health & Fitness](https://trysonar.app/keyword-difficulty/category/health-fitness): 7 keyword pages — Dominated by big brands (MyFitnessPal, Strava, Nike). Long-tail keywords around specific workouts, conditions, or tracking types are the indie opportunity.
- [Productivity](https://trysonar.app/keyword-difficulty/category/productivity): 7 keyword pages — Saturated with to-do and note apps. Differentiation comes from targeting specific workflows (writers, developers, teachers) or specific methods (GTD, Pomodoro, Eisenhower).
- [Finance](https://trysonar.app/keyword-difficulty/category/finance): 7 keyword pages — High-value keywords dominated by banks and fintech companies. Indie opportunity in niche budgeting (couples, students, specific currencies) and calculation tools.
- [Education](https://trysonar.app/keyword-difficulty/category/education): 1 keyword page — Broad category with strong long-tail potential. Keywords like 'learn {subject}' and '{language} flashcards' have clear intent and moderate competition.
- [Photo & Video](https://trysonar.app/keyword-difficulty/category/photo-video): 4 keyword pages — Huge installs but dominated by big players (VSCO, Snapseed, CapCut). Niches: specific filter styles, format converters, niche editing (pet photos, real estate).
- [Utilities](https://trysonar.app/keyword-difficulty/category/utilities): 4 keyword pages — Extremely broad. The trick is finding specific utility needs that aren't well-served. Great for portfolio indie devs building 5-10 small focused apps.

## Product Details

- **Indie Plan** ($29/mo or $24.17/mo annual): 10 apps, 2,500 keywords, unlimited competitors, all countries, daily rank tracking, dashboard, REST API (1,000 req/day), CLI, CSV/JSON export. 7-day free trial.
- **Agency Plan** ($149/mo or $1,490/yr): everything in Indie plus 50 apps, 10,000 keywords, REST API (5,000 req/day), 5 team seats, portfolio rollup dashboard, white-label client reports, priority rank refresh, and App Store Connect data via API and MCP.
- **API Credits** (from $10): Prepaid pay-as-you-go credit packs for the REST API, CLI, and MCP server. No subscription. 50 free credits on signup. Packs: $10/1,000 · $20/2,500 · $50/7,000 · $100/15,000 credits. Auto-recharge optional. Credits never expire.
- **Credit cost**: 1 credit for app lookup/search/ASO score/reviews/extract-keywords/suggestions; 10 credits for keyword research with difficulty; 1 credit per app for bulk revenue; 1 credit per keyword for keyword metrics.
- **Supported Stores**: Apple App Store and Google Play Store
- **API Auth**: Bearer token with `aso_` prefix
- **API versioning**: URL-versioned (`/api/v1`), additive-only within a version; any deprecation gets ≥6 months notice via `Deprecation`/`Sunset` headers and the changelog
- **Data Sources**: iTunes Search API, Apple Search Ads, app-store-scraper, google-play-scraper
- **iOS popularity**: Apple's own Search Popularity (5–100) from the Apple Search Ads console — Apple-reported, not estimated. Keywords Apple floors at 5 get a proxy estimate; the API's `popularity_source` field says `apple` or `proxy`, with `popularity_proxy` exposed alongside.
- **iOS rankings**: validated against DataForSEO's true App Store rankings across 14 broad/brand/long-tail queries — rank order within ±2 positions through the top 20, exact #1 agreement on every query.
- **Android popularity**: estimator calibrated against real Apple Search Popularity for the same 57 keywords across stores — mean absolute error 12.5 points, Spearman 0.775. Details: https://trysonar.app/data-accuracy

## MCP Server (for AI Agents)

Sonar publishes an official Model Context Protocol server at `@sonarapp/mcp` on npm — 63 tools covering the entire v1 API (stateless lookups, workspace reads, write tools, App Store review replies, Screenshot Studio) for any MCP-compatible AI client.

Hosted endpoint, no install and NO API key (OAuth browser sign-in on the first account tool call): `claude mcp add --transport http sonar https://trysonar.app/mcp`

Or install locally in Claude Desktop, Cursor, etc. via:

```json
{
  "mcpServers": {
    "sonar": {
      "command": "npx",
      "args": ["-y", "@sonarapp/mcp"],
      "env": { "SONAR_API_KEY": "aso_..." }
    }
  }
}
```

Claude Code: `claude mcp add sonar -e SONAR_API_KEY=aso_... -- npx -y @sonarapp/mcp`

Stateless tools: `sonar_app_lookup`, `sonar_app_search`, `sonar_app_aso_score`, `sonar_app_extract_keywords`, `sonar_app_reviews`, `sonar_app_revenue`, `sonar_keyword_search`, `sonar_keyword_metrics`, `sonar_keyword_suggestions`, `sonar_top_charts` — plus workspace read/write and Screenshot Studio tools (full list at https://trysonar.app/docs/mcp).

Full setup at https://trysonar.app/docs/mcp.

## CLI

`@sonarapp/cli` on npm provides a `sonar` binary for terminal/CI usage of the same API. Install: `npm install -g @sonarapp/cli`. Auth: `sonar auth login`. Docs at https://trysonar.app/docs/cli.

## API Endpoints

Stateless (available with API credits or Indie plan):
- GET /api/v1/apps/lookup — Look up app by store ID (1 credit)
- GET /api/v1/apps/search — Search apps in store (1 credit)
- GET /api/v1/apps/aso-score — ASO audit score (0-100) (1 credit)
- GET /api/v1/apps/extract-keywords — Extract keywords from app metadata (1 credit)
- GET /api/v1/apps/reviews — Fetch app reviews (supports min_rating, max_rating, limit filters) (1 credit)
- GET /api/v1/apps/revenue — Monthly revenue estimate (single via id, or bulk via ids — up to 25 per call) (1 credit per app)
- GET /api/v1/keywords/search — Keyword research, seed + ~10 related ideas with difficulty (10 credits)
- GET /api/v1/keywords/metrics — Difficulty + popularity for a specific keyword (or bulk up to 25) (1 credit per keyword)
- GET /api/v1/keywords/suggestions — Autocomplete keyword suggestions (1 credit)

Org-scoped (Indie plan only):
- GET /api/v1/apps — List tracked apps
- GET /api/v1/apps/:id/keywords — Keywords the app ranks for
- GET /api/v1/apps/:id/rankings — Rank history
- GET /api/v1/apps/:id/changes — Activity feed: releases, metadata, screenshots, price, category, product page header and In-App Event changes
- GET /api/v1/competitors/:id/keywords — Competitor keyword analysis
- GET /api/v1/apps/:id/competitor-landscape — Competitive landscape (gaps, threats, leads) + AI insight
- GET /api/v1/apps/:id/sales — App Store Connect sales: downloads, redownloads, IAP units, approximate proceeds (Agency plan, iOS, needs an App Store Connect connection)
- GET /api/v1/apps/:id/engagement — App Store Connect engagement: impressions (incl. product page views), page views, downloads, rates, sources, sessions (Agency plan, iOS, needs an App Store Connect connection)
- GET /api/v1/apps/:id/review-replies — Review inbox for your own iOS app: App Store reviews with AI reply drafts in the reviewer's language, English translations and reply state; settings at /api/v1/apps/:id/review-responder, replies via /api/v1/review-replies/:id (needs an App Store Connect connection; posting needs an Admin-role key)

## Machine-Readable Resources

- [llms-full.txt](https://trysonar.app/llms-full.txt): Self-contained dossier (positioning, pricing, ICP, competitors)
- [OpenAPI specification](https://trysonar.app/openapi.json): OpenAPI 3.1 spec for the Sonar REST API — every endpoint, parameter, and error schema
- [API catalog](https://trysonar.app/.well-known/api-catalog): RFC 9727 linkset of Sonar's machine-readable API resources
- [MCP server card](https://trysonar.app/.well-known/mcp/server-card.json): MCP server manifest (SEP-1649) for the hosted endpoint at https://trysonar.app/mcp
- [OAuth discovery](https://trysonar.app/.well-known/oauth-authorization-server): RFC 8414 authorization-server metadata (protected-resource metadata per RFC 9728 at /.well-known/oauth-protected-resource)
- [@sonarapp/mcp on npm](https://www.npmjs.com/package/@sonarapp/mcp): Official MCP server for AI agents
- [@sonarapp/cli on npm](https://www.npmjs.com/package/@sonarapp/cli): Official command-line tool
- [agent-skill.md](https://trysonar.app/agent-skill.md): Plain-text agent skill (alternative to MCP, for non-MCP frameworks)
- [github.com/trysonar/skills](https://github.com/trysonar/skills): Agent skills — ready-made ASO workflows (keyword research, audits, competitor analysis, rank tracking) for Claude Code, Cursor, and any Agent Skills-compatible client
- [sitemap.xml](https://trysonar.app/sitemap.xml): XML sitemap of all pages
- [feed.xml](https://trysonar.app/feed.xml): RSS feed of blog posts
- Raw markdown: append `.md` to any blog or keyword-difficulty URL

## Contact

- Website: https://trysonar.app
- Support: https://trysonar.app/support