A Comprehensive List of Google Play Tags

by Alexandra De Clerck
CMO at AppTweak

January 3, 2022 — 6 min read

In the ever-evolving landscape of mobile apps, discoverability is a paramount concern for developers and app marketers. As millions of apps vie for attention on Google Play, one of the world’s largest app marketplaces, standing out from the crowd has become a challenging endeavor. This is where Google Play tags come into play.

Google Play tags are a set of descriptive keywords and phrases that developers use to label and categorize their mobile apps. These tags help users discover apps more easily by guiding them to relevant content based on their interests, needs, and preferences. Essentially, Google Play tags serve as a vital bridge connecting app developers with their target audience.

Learn more about what Google Play tags are and how to add them

Why are Google Play tags important?

Google Play tags are a vital part of the app’s metadata and serve as signposts that guide users to your app based on their interests and needs. When users search for apps or explore different categories on Google Play, the tags help ensure that your app appears in the relevant search results or recommendations.

Improved discoverability: With millions of apps to choose from, users rely on search and category filters to discover new apps. Google Play tags make your app discoverable to the right audience by ensuring it appears in relevant searches and categories.
Increased downloads: Apps with well-chosen and optimized tags are more likely to attract users who are genuinely interested in their offerings. This leads to higher download rates and user engagement.
Competitive advantage: Effective tagging can give your app a competitive edge in a crowded marketplace. It helps you outrank competitors in search results and appear in more users’ recommendations.

How to choose & optimize Google Play tags?

Google Play guidelines recommend being very careful when selecting tags:

Research relevant keywords and phrases that describe your app’s functionality and purpose. Consider what words potential users might use when searching for an app like yours.
Choose tags that clearly describe your app or game’s features or functionality. For example, a traditional crossword game could add the tags “word” or “crossword,” but should not add the tag “word search.” This is because “word search” typically refers to a different type of word game and does not describe the functionality of a traditional crossword game.
While it’s important to include relevant keywords, avoid overloading your app’s description with tags. Google Play’s algorithms penalize keyword stuffing, so use tags naturally and meaningfully.

You can add up to 5 tags to your app listing. Google will present you with suggested tags. If you think there are more relevant tags, you can search through the list and add the tags that best describe your app or game. On the other hand, if your app’s features can be well described with 2 or 3 tags, it’s not necessary for you to add 5 tag slots.

Understand the impact of adding or updating Google Play tags

Complete list of Google Play tags

Towards the end of 2021, Google announced an updated list of tags to help you discover newer games and apps on Google Play. In the Store Listing tab on your Google Play Console, you can consult the full list of tags available to add to your app listing. You can also find the updated, complete list of the tags here:

Conclusion

Whether you’re a seasoned app developer or someone considering venturing into the world of mobile apps, understanding the power of Google Play tags is key to making your app shine in the digital marketplace. Make sure to keep an eye on your app or game’s visibility after updating its Google tags!

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by Alexandra De Clerck, CMO at AppTweak

Alexandra De Clerck is CMO at AppTweak. She is responsible for developing AppTweak's marketing strategy and brand recognition across the globe.