Why doesn't the average rating match the app store?
Summary
AppReviewBot calculates ratings from text reviews only, while app stores include all ratings. Additionally, app stores use time-weighting, while AppReviewBot uses a simple average.
Main Differences
| Platform | What It Includes | Calculation |
|---|---|---|
| App Store | All ratings, with or without text | Time-weighted lifetime average |
| Google Play | All ratings, with or without text | Time-weighted, recent emphasized |
| AppReviewBot | Text reviews only | Simple average |
Why Differences Occur
1. Stars-Only Ratings Excluded
App store APIs don't provide full access to ratings without text:
- Reviews with text: Included in AppReviewBot
- Stars-only ratings: Not available via API
Result: Store averages 10,000 ratings; AppReviewBot averages 3,000 text reviews.
2. Time-Weighting
Google Play emphasizes recent reviews (last 30 days count more). AppReviewBot treats all reviews equally.
3. Historical Data
By default, AppReviewBot fetches only recent reviews from when you add the app. To access extended historical data, connect your developer account via Sidebar → Store Accounts.
Example:
- App launched 3 years ago
- Added to AppReviewBot today without a connected store account
- Store: 3 years of ratings
- AppReviewBot: Recent reviews only (connect Store Account for deeper history)
4. Regional Differences
App stores show region-specific ratings. If you're monitoring only US reviews, AppReviewBot won't include ratings from other countries.
Making It More Accurate
Connect Developer Accounts
Connecting gives you:
- Access to more reviews
- Extended historical data
- Better coverage
For Step by step guide please follow
Remove Filters
Check if you have filters applied:
- Rating filters
- Country filters
Which Rating to Use
| Metric | Use For |
|---|---|
| App Store rating | Public reporting, marketing |
| AppReviewBot rating | Trend analysis, feedback management |
Recommendation: Use the official app store rating for reports. Use AppReviewBot for analyzing trends.
Questions?
See common questions in our Ratings & Reviews FAQ.