What is an App Preview Video?
These videos come in 9:16 and 16:9 video aspect ratios, to accommodate the platforms that they can be used. These videos are filmed by taking a screen capture with Voice Over based on the Brief provided by client.
✅ When framing your video DO
Show a clear screen recording of the app
Be mindful of the aspect ratio
❌ When framing your video DON'T
Leave black/blurred lines on the screen showing off the app
Allow background noise when doing your voice over
Here are some examples
for 9:16 Videos 📱
for 16:9 Videos 💻
*For Vertical App Screen Recording we’ll place it in a mockup of a smartphone, in-house. 📲 The creator only needs to record a 9:16 video
🍎 Apple App Store Requirements for Preview Video
You would have to create a piece in two different resolutions (three, if you want the video to be shown to iPad users).
The resolutions are:
1080x1920 or 1920x1080 (for iPhone 5/6/7/8 and 6 plus/7 plus/8 plus)
886x1920 or 1920x886 (for iPhone X and Xs Max/XR)\
1200x1600 or 1600x1200 (for iPad and iPad Pro)
Your video will automatically become smaller for any other device.
The maximum file size is 50 MB.
The accepted file formats are .mov, .mp4, and .m4v. Finally, the videos for the App Store have to be manually approved by Apple. And there are quite a few guidelines that you have to follow. For example, you are allowed to only use captured footage of the app itself.
🤖 Google Play Requirements for Preview Video
You would have to create a good-quality, landscape-oriented video. The aspect ratio for YouTube videos is 16:9.
The recommended dimensions are:
1920 x 1080 (1080p); 2560 x 1440 (1440p); 3840 x 2160 (2160p).
Accepted video formats include .mov, .mpeg4. There are pretty much no restrictions for the actual content. But it would be great if you manage to show only Android devices and the Google Play Store badge.
General tips for App and Game videos
✔️ Read The Brief 📰
Make sure you thoroughly read through the brief and content requirements before creating your video to avoid edit request.
↕️ Portrait vs. ↔️ Landscape Videos
On the App Store, your choice should depend on the orientation of the app itself.
On Google Play, however, it is recommended to create the video in landscape even if the app is vertical. However, you should note that your app preview video for Google Play will be uploaded to YouTube.
🔭 Shake That Thing!? Nope
No one likes shaky footage so use a tripod or just put the camera somewhere sturdy. You can use duct tape to stick it to a wall 😅
Clean Voice Over Recording 🎙️
When recording voiceover be aware of the humming sounds in your recording room (working washing machine, refrigerator, AC, etc. )
Show Actual footage 📱 of the app
By watching your video, the user has to develop an understanding of what the app is going to feel like.
By the way, Apple will reject any preview that has footage filmed outside of the app. It is not recommended to show any people/fingers, etc. You can highlight the areas that you need the user to pay attention to.
Don’t use unnecessary ✋ interaction
Don’t use unnecessary interaction in the final edit, like opening an app or navigating through your phone screen.
Clear view 👁️ of the smartphone or a tablet
Avoid any obstruction that may come into your camera view. Make sure that the screen is clearly visible.
Reading Links 🔗 Additional information or more in-depth topics found here
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