ChatGPT Download Stats: Most Downloaded App in March

ChatGPT Achieves Record Downloads in March

In March, ChatGPT experienced a surge in popularity, becoming the most downloaded application globally, surpassing established leaders like Instagram and TikTok. This marks the first instance of the app claiming the top position in monthly download charts, representing its most successful month to date.

Significant Growth in User Acquisition

Data indicates a 28% increase in ChatGPT installations from February to March, culminating in 46 million new downloads, as reported by app intelligence firm Appfigures. This substantial growth propelled it to the forefront of the app market.

Shifting App Store Rankings

The rise of ChatGPT resulted in Instagram falling to the second position, with TikTok securing the third spot. This shift demonstrates a changing landscape in app user preferences.

Key Updates and Viral Trends

Several notable enhancements to ChatGPT were implemented in March, including significant improvements to its image generation capabilities. These upgrades contributed to a viral trend where users discovered the ability to create images and memes inspired by the distinctive style of Studio Ghibli, the renowned Japanese animation studio.

Relaxed Content Moderation and Voice Enhancements

OpenAI also adjusted its content moderation policies for images and upgraded the AI voice feature within ChatGPT during March, further enhancing the user experience.

Year-Over-Year Growth

Appfigures data reveals a 148% year-over-year increase in ChatGPT installs, comparing the first quarter of 2021 to Q1 2025.

The "ChatGPT as a Verb" Phenomenon

While new features contributed, Appfigures suggests that broader market trends played a larger role in this month’s growth. According to Ariel Michaeli, founder and CEO of Appfigures, ChatGPT is increasingly becoming synonymous with AI itself.

Brand Recognition and Competitive Landscape

“Many now instinctively think of ChatGPT rather than ‘AI’ generally,” Michaeli stated. This strong brand recognition may present challenges for competing AI chatbots, such as Anthropic’s Claude, to gain traction.

The Advantage of Marketing and Distribution

Grok, another AI chatbot, may benefit from its association with Elon Musk and the extensive distribution platform of X, potentially overcoming the hurdles faced by other ChatGPT rivals.

Previous Rankings and TikTok's Growth

Prior to March, Instagram consistently held the No. 2 position on both the Apple App Store and Google Play in January and February. TikTok previously dominated as the No. 1 app.

Impact of Potential Ban on TikTok Downloads

Earlier this year, TikTok experienced a surge in downloads driven by concerns over a potential U.S. ban, as users sought to secure the app before potential removal from app stores. However, this ban is currently on hold as President Trump explores a potential agreement with China.

Instagram's Continued Popularity

Throughout 2024, Instagram frequently surpassed TikTok in global app store rankings. The platform maintains strong popularity, particularly among U.S. teenagers.

Teen Usage Statistics

A recent Piper Sandler survey of U.S. teens revealed that Instagram is the most frequently used social app, with 87% monthly usage, compared to 79% for TikTok and 72% for Snapchat.

Rounding Out the Top Apps

Other social applications, including Facebook and WhatsApp, completed the top five most downloaded apps in March. CapCut, Telegram, Snapchat, and Meta’s Threads also featured in the top 10, alongside Temu.

Overall Download Volume

Collectively, the top 10 apps were downloaded 339 million times in March, an increase from February’s 299 million downloads.