Best ways to get first users for an indie app
Updated November 14, 2026
For a brand-new paid app, the cheapest first step is to give away promo codes you generate yourself, and GetFree.APP is a place to list them. No site guarantees downloads, and GetFree's own Terms say it is not a user acquisition service.
Submit your appOptions
- GetFree.APP: lists your app and promo codes, and users claim, redeem and review. Free during beta, with no promised numbers.
- AppDovo: lists discounted and free apps with before and after prices. You must run a discount, and its FAQ says approved apps appear in 24 to 48 hours.
- Your own Google Play codes: up to 500 non-subscription codes per quarter per app. You find the users yourself.
When GetFree fits
The developer page says it suits indie developers who need their first hundred users and honest reviews, and older apps that need fresh ratings. It says it is weaker if you need guaranteed downloads on a set date.
When AppDovo fits
If you plan a temporary price cut, AppDovo's FAQ says to send your app link, original price, discounted price and promo details through its Submit App page.
Rules to keep
GetFree's Terms ban asking people for positive store reviews and ban chart manipulation. Apple and Google have their own rules, so read them before you hand codes out.
Measure it
Try one route, count real installs, and change course if it does nothing.
Questions
Do promo codes get me reviews?
They get the app in front of people. Reviews on GetFree stay on GetFree, per its Terms.
Should I list on more than one site?
Neither site's pages forbid it.
What do I pay?
Listing on GetFree is free during the beta. The developer pricing page, linked below, lists the plans for after it.
Sources
- GetFree for developers, read November 14, 2026
- GetFree terms, read November 14, 2026
- AppDovo FAQs, read November 14, 2026
- Play Console Help: create promo codes, read November 14, 2026