Industries

Apps

September 30, 2025

Drive app installs from the big screen to the small screen

Mobile app developers are turning to CTV to acquire users outside crowded app stores. Reach engaged audiences on streaming TV starting at just $50.

A couple, inspired by a TV commercial, uses their smartphones to download an app instantly. This moment highlights the power of connected TV advertising to drive real-time customer engagement and action.

App store ads and Facebook campaigns are saturated. CPIs keep rising, and users are skeptical of mobile ads they've seen a thousand times. Meanwhile, streaming TV viewers are leaned-back, engaged, and more receptive to discovering new apps—especially when the ad appears on a trusted platform like Hulu or ESPN.

Why mobile app developers advertise on CTV

Connected TV (CTV) advertising reaches users in a completely different mindset—relaxed, attentive, and open to trying something new. It's user acquisition outside the crowded app stores.

  • Reach users on the big screen: CTV ads appear while users are watching TV. When they see your app advertised on a 55-inch screen, they can grab their phone and download immediately. The big screen creates impact; the small screen drives action.

  • Higher-quality installs: TV viewers are less ad-fatigued than social media scrollers. They pay attention, remember your app name, and are more likely to install, open, and actually use your app (not just install and delete).

  • Target by demographics and location: Go national or target specific metro areas. Perfect for apps with local utility (food delivery, ride-sharing, local services, dating apps) or apps targeting specific demographics.

  • Brand building at scale: TV ads don't just drive installs—they build brand awareness and legitimacy. Seeing your app on TV makes it feel established, credible, and worth downloading.

  • Escape app store saturation: With millions of apps competing for attention, CTV gives you a channel that reaches users before they even open an app store. You're on their radar before they start searching.

Real results app developers are seeing

Mobile app developers using CTV advertising report:

  • Measurable install lift during campaign periods

  • Higher user retention compared to other paid channels

  • Increased brand search volume after CTV campaigns

  • Lower overall cost-per-install in blended UA strategy

How it works for mobile apps

  1. Provide your app landing page or website. We pull screenshots, app store assets, and key features to create a compelling commercial.

  2. Customize your message. Adjust visuals, voice-over, and messaging to highlight your app's value proposition and main benefits.

  3. Choose your audience. Go national, target specific metro areas, or focus on demographics that match your user base.

  4. Launch and measure results. Track ad views, measure install lift with attribution tools, and monitor cost-per-install in real-time.

Affordable pricing for app developers

Starting at $50/month for ~1,800 ad views. Test CTV as a user acquisition channel without breaking your UA budget. Scale up as you see results.

See detailed pricing or create your first ad free.