Lecture Notes: Exposing BTOC Viral Apps

Introduction

• Today’s focus is on BTOC viral apps that charge subscription fees ($4, $10, $20/month).
• Many of these apps have gained popularity through platforms like Twitter (X).
• Discussion will cover strategies used by these apps to generate significant revenue.

Guest Speaker: Gus from Starter Story

• Gus has compiled a list of BTOC apps utilizing viral marketing strategies.
• He references a tweet from a user named Gam regarding a "multi-account hypergrowth era for apps" seen on TikTok.

Key Takeaways from the Tweet

• The tweet lists various apps, their earnings, and view counts.
• Notable mentions include TurboLearn and Calai.
• Similar growth strategies are observed among these apps.

Discussion on TikTok Growth Strategies

• Jenny AI is mentioned as a case study for leveraging TikTok for growth.
• There's a possible trend where apps see success using a similar approach.
• The emergence of TikTok as a marketing tool parallels early SEO strategies that allowed for gaming algorithms.
• Importance of acting quickly on emerging trends to capitalize on growth potential.

Example App: Lockit App

• Overview: A friendship app that allows users to share real-time photos.
• Metrics: 300,000 Monthly Recurring Revenue (MRR), a million downloads last month, ranked 13th in social networking.
• Pricing: $3.99/month or $36/year.
• TikTok Strategy: Utilizes multiple influencer accounts to promote the app.
  • Example videos with emotional hooks receive millions of views.
  • User engagement: Many comments indicate interest in the app's functionality.

Example App: Couple Joy

• Overview: Relationship app for long-distance couples.
• Metrics: 500,000 downloads last month, ranked 19th in lifestyle category.
• Pricing: $12.99/month.
• TikTok Strategy: Similar to Lockit, influencers showcase the app through engaging content, often with emotional appeals.

Example App: Einstein Homework Helper

• Overview: AI-based study support app.
• Metrics: 70,000 downloads last month, ranked 93rd in education.
• Pricing: $12.99/month.
• TikTok Strategy: Users share their study experiences, promoting the app through relatable content.

General Observations on TikTok Marketing

• Intent in Marketing: Successful videos directly address problems the app solves and showcase the app in use.
• Importance of intent over generic postings about daily life.
• Algorithm Dynamics: Engagement through repeated formats can lead to viral success.

The Importance of Attention

• Attention is crucial for app success, overshadowing features and product quality.
• Strategies to capture attention should be prioritized.
• Mention of Starter Story’s attention database as a resource for marketing strategies.

Closing Thoughts

• The current trend emphasizes the power of algorithms and consumer willingness to pay for digital solutions.
• Encouragement to explore TikTok for viral marketing opportunities.
• Call to action for viewers to share thoughts on future marketing strategies to discuss in upcoming episodes.