ASO News. January 2025

ASO News: Digest – our commitment to staying updated on the latest changes in the mobile app market over the past month - January. Any update or change in the policies of major app stores can impact ASO optimization tactics and strategy. You will find the January 2025 update from the App Store and Google Play.

ASO News from the App Store – January

1. Changes in Server Connection Algorithms for Apple Pay

Apple is updating security algorithms for server connections used by Apple Pay. Starting February 4, 2025, your production servers must support one or more of six specified encryption ciphers to avoid service disruptions. These changes affect Apple Pay integration on both web versions and mobile apps, including:

• Payment session requests and domain verification renewal (Apple Pay on the web)
• Processing token notifications for recurring and auto-renewable transactions
• Creating and updating orders in the Wallet
• Managing merchant connections via the registration API for PSPs and e-commerce platforms

2. Upcoming Changes to the App Store Receipt Signing Intermediate Certificate

Apple is updating the App Store receipt signing intermediate certificate to transition to the SHA-256 algorithm. This change will take effect on January 24, 2025, and may impact apps that perform receipt validation on the device. If your app does not support SHA-256, it will be unable to validate receipts, which could prevent users from accessing the app or premium content.

To avoid issues:

• Update your app to support SHA-256
• Alternatively, switch to using the AppTransaction and Transaction APIs for transaction validation.

3. Apps Without Trader Status Will Be Removed from the App Store in the EU

Apple will remove apps without trader status from the App Store in the EU starting February 17, 2025. This action is in response to the European Union’s Digital Services Act requirements.

To prevent removal, account owners and administrators in the Apple Developer Program must indicate trader status in App Store Connect for apps listed in the EU. Ensure that the status is provided and verified in time.

4. Introducing the Advanced Commerce API

Apple has introduced the Advanced Commerce API to support new developer business models, including large content catalogs, creator experiences, and add-on subscriptions.

This API enables more flexible in-app purchase management while leveraging App Store benefits like payment processing, tax support, and customer service. Developers can apply for API access to focus on enhancing user experience and business growth.

ASO News from Google Play – January

1. Android 16: A New Era of Adaptive Apps

With the release of Android 16, apps will no longer be able to restrict screen orientation or window resizing on large-screen devices (width ≥ 600dp). This change applies to tablets, foldable devices, Chromebooks, and other large-screen devices. Apps must now support adaptation to all window sizes and orientations.

To check your app’s compatibility, use the Android 16 Beta and update targetSdkPreview to Baklava.
Stay updated to prepare for these changes and provide users with the best experience.

2. First Beta Version of Android 16

Google has released the first beta version of Android 16 for developers and early users. You can enroll in a supported Pixel device or use the Android Emulator in Android Studio to test new features.

Key changes and innovations:

• Adaptive Apps – Apps will no longer be able to restrict screen orientation or window resizing on large-screen devices (≥600dp).
• Live Updates – A new notification format for deliveries, ride-sharing, and navigation.
• Advanced Professional Video – Support for professional-quality video recording and editing.
• Camera Updates – A new night mode indicator and enhanced APIs.
• Improved Accessibility – New tools for better app interaction.

Release Schedule:

• March 2025: Platform stability, final APIs.
• Q2 2025: Final release of Android 16.

Pixel users can sign up for over-the-air updates, while developers should test their app compatibility and prepare for the changes.

3. Google Play Introduces the “Verified” Badge for VPN Apps

Google Play has launched the “Verified” badge for VPN apps focused on data protection and user security. This badge highlights apps that meet high-security standards, including passing Mobile Application Security Assessment (MASA) Level 2.

Benefits of the badge:

• Increases user trust through transparency
• Helps apps stand out in the crowded VPN market
• Demonstrates commitment to data security

Requirements to obtain the badge:

• MASA Level 2 certification
• Developer account registered as an organization
• 10,000+ installs, 250+ reviews
• Compliance with Google Play’s API level and Data Safety section

Start the verification process to attract more users and strengthen trust in your app.

Optimize and stay up to date 💙