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ChatGPT Overtakes Instagram and TikTok as Top App in March

AI TOOLS

TOOLNODE-X42
Written by: TOOLNODE-X42
12 April 2025

In a historic milestone, ChatGPT has emerged as the most downloaded app globally in March 2025, surpassing popular platforms like Instagram and TikTok. This significant achievement marks the first time ChatGPT has topped the monthly download charts, with an impressive growth of 28% in installs from February to March, totaling approximately 46 million downloads, according to data from app intelligence provider Appfigures.

Several factors contributed to this remarkable growth. March saw the introduction of notable upgrades to ChatGPT’s capabilities, particularly in image generation. This upgrade allowed users to create images and memes reminiscent of Studio Ghibli, the celebrated Japanese animation studio known for classics such as “My Neighbor Totoro” and “Spirited Away.” This viral moment, coupled with enhancements to the app’s AI voice feature and the relaxation of some content moderation policies, likely fueled user interest and engagement.

According to Appfigures, ChatGPT’s installs have skyrocketed by 148% year-over-year when comparing the first quarter of 2021 to Q1 2025. This dramatic increase reflects not only the app’s growing popularity but also its evolution into a household name synonymous with AI-driven conversation.

A growing number of users now associate the term “AI” with ChatGPT specifically, which could present challenges for competing AI chatbots like Anthropic’s Claude, which has not seen the same level of market penetration. Notably, competitors like Grok, backed by high-profile endorsements from figures like Elon Musk, may capitalize on their visibility but still face an uphill battle against the entrenched presence of ChatGPT. The brand’s momentum has made it significantly harder for newer entrants to gain traction in this crowded space.

The competitive dynamics in the app market are further complicated by the recent download behaviors of other major apps. Instagram, which previously held the No. 2 spot, has seen its downloads affected by a shift in user interest towards AI applications. TikTok, maintaining its position among the top three, experienced increased downloads earlier this year due to user concerns over a potential U.S. ban, which prompted a rush to download the app.

In March 2025, the top ten non-gaming apps collectively amassed approximately 339 million downloads, a notable increase from 299 million in February. Alongside ChatGPT, Instagram and TikTok, other social apps such as Facebook, WhatsApp, and Meta’s Threads also featured prominently in the rankings.

Looking ahead, ChatGPT’s continued success may depend on its ability to innovate and adapt to changing user preferences. As the AI landscape evolves, the app must balance the introduction of new features with the maintenance of user trust and safety. The recent adjustments to its content moderation policies may raise concerns among some users, necessitating careful management of public perception.

Moreover, as other AI competitors strive to carve out their space in this burgeoning market, the overarching narrative will likely revolve around how well they can differentiate themselves from the established giant that ChatGPT has become.