ChatGPT is the most downloaded free iPhone app in US
What's the story
OpenAI's ChatGPT has been crowned the most downloaded free iPhone app in the US for 2025, according to Apple's annual report. The AI-powered app beat out popular platforms like Threads, Google, TikTok, WhatsApp, Instagram, YouTube, and Google Maps. This is a major leap from last year's performance when ChatGPT secured the fourth position behind Chinese shopping giant Temu.
App evolution
ChatGPT's journey to the top
ChatGPT didn't make it to the top-10 list in 2023, despite its strong debut on iPhone in May. However, it became the most downloaded app globally in March this year, beating other popular apps like TikTok and Instagram. The rise of ChatGPT over social media stalwarts and essential utilities such as Google Maps shows how deeply AI has penetrated daily life in the US.
Market impact
Potential disruption in search market
The success of ChatGPT also indicates a possible disruption in Google's dominance over mobile search. As more people turn to chatbots for answers, it could change the way information is accessed on mobile devices. This trend highlights the growing reliance on AI tools like ChatGPT for everyday tasks and queries, further emphasizing their importance in modern digital life.
App rankings
Apple's annual report highlights top apps and games
Along with ChatGPT's success, Apple's annual report also highlighted other top apps and games. For iPhone users, HotSchedules, Shadowrocket, Procreate Pocket, AnkiMobile Flashcards, and Paprika Recipe Manager 3 were among the top paid apps. Block Blast! topped the list of free iPhone games while Minecraft was the most downloaded paid game on iPhone this year.
Information
YouTube dominates iPad app downloads
For iPad users, YouTube topped the list of free apps while creativity app Procreate was the most downloaded paid app. Roblox dominated the free iPad games category. These rankings further highlight the popularity of certain apps across different devices and user preferences.