ChatGPT Tops US App Charts in 2025 | AI News

Apple Announces 2025's Most Popular Apps and Games

Apple has unveiled its yearly compilation of the most frequently downloaded applications and games. The list highlights trends in user preferences throughout the year.

Top Free iPhone Apps in the U.S.

According to Apple’s report, OpenAI’s ChatGPT secured the leading position among free iPhone applications in the United States for 2025, excluding games.

Following ChatGPT in popularity were several prominent apps, including Threads, Google, TikTok, WhatsApp, Instagram, YouTube, Google Maps, Gmail, and Google’s Gemini.

ChatGPT's Rise in Popularity

ChatGPT achieved a fourth-place ranking in the previous year. However, the first position was then held by the Chinese e-commerce platform, Temu.

Interestingly, in 2023, the ChatGPT application did not even feature within the top ten most downloaded apps, despite its initial release on the iPhone in May of that year and a successful launch.

The increasing prevalence of ChatGPT over established social media platforms and essential tools like Google Maps signifies the growing integration of artificial intelligence into daily life within the U.S.

This trend also suggests a potential challenge to Google’s dominance in the mobile search market, as more individuals are now opting to utilize chatbots for information retrieval.

Earlier in the year, indications pointed towards ChatGPT’s potential to reach the top spot; it became the most downloaded app worldwide in March, surpassing other leading applications such as TikTok and Instagram.

Additional App and Game Rankings

Apple also published rankings for the most popular paid applications, alongside lists for both free and paid games available on iPhone and iPad, as well as the top-performing Apple Arcade games.

Block Blast! emerged as the most downloaded free game this year. Minecraft, meanwhile, was recognized as the top paid game.

For iPad users, YouTube was the most popular free application. The creative application, Procreate, led the rankings as the top paid game on iPad. Roblox was the leading free game on iPad.

A comprehensive listing of the top applications and games can be found below:

Leading Complimentary iPhone Applications

The iPhone platform boasts a vast ecosystem of applications, many of which are available at no cost. These apps cater to a diverse range of needs, from communication and social networking to information access and entertainment.

Highly Popular Free iPhone Apps

Several applications consistently rank among the most downloaded and utilized free options for iPhone users. These represent a spectrum of functionalities and appeal to broad demographics.

• ChatGPT: This application provides access to a powerful language model capable of generating human-like text.

• Threads: An application designed for text-based conversations and public updates, closely integrated with Instagram.

• Google: The official Google application offers a comprehensive search experience directly on your iPhone.

• TikTok – Videos, Shop & LIVE: A platform centered around short-form video content, also incorporating shopping and live streaming features.

• WhatsApp Messenger: A widely used messaging application enabling text, voice, and video communication.

• Instagram: A popular social media platform focused on photo and video sharing.

• YouTube: The leading video-sharing platform, providing access to a massive library of content.

• Google Maps: A navigation application offering detailed maps, directions, and location-based services.

• Gmail – Email by Google: Google’s email client, providing a robust and feature-rich email experience.

• Google Gemini: An advanced AI assistant offering conversational capabilities and information retrieval.

These top free iPhone apps represent just a fraction of the available options. Users can explore the App Store to discover applications tailored to their specific interests and requirements.

Top Paid iPhone Apps

The Apple App Store features a wide array of applications available for purchase. Several consistently rank among the highest-grossing paid options.

Popular Choices

Here's a look at ten of the most popular paid iPhone apps, as of recent data.

• HotSchedules: This app is a leading workforce management solution, primarily utilized within the restaurant industry.
• Shadowrocket: Shadowrocket functions as a powerful and configurable proxy utility for iOS devices.
• Procreate Pocket: A streamlined version of the full Procreate app, it offers professional-grade digital painting capabilities on the go.
• AnkiMobile Flashcards: This application is a highly effective spaced repetition system for memorization and learning.
• Paprika Recipe Manager 3: Paprika Recipe Manager 3 allows users to easily save, organize, and scale recipes.
• SkyView®: SkyView® is an augmented reality application that identifies celestial objects in real-time.
• TonalEnergy Tuner & Metronome: Musicians frequently utilize this app for accurate tuning and tempo practice.
• AutoSleep Track Sleep on Watch: AutoSleep automatically tracks sleep duration and quality using the Apple Watch.
• Forest: Focus for Productivity: This unique app gamifies focus by planting virtual trees that grow while you remain productive.
• RadarScope: RadarScope provides meteorologists and weather enthusiasts with access to detailed radar data.

These applications represent a diverse range of functionalities, catering to professionals, students, creatives, and hobbyists alike. Their consistent presence on the top paid charts demonstrates their value and user satisfaction.

Top Free iPhone Games

The iPhone platform boasts a vast library of games, and many excellent options are available without any cost. Discovering engaging gameplay doesn't always require a purchase.

Popular Choices for iPhone Gamers

A diverse range of genres are represented among the top free iPhone games. From puzzle challenges to battle royales, there’s something to suit every preference.

• Block Blast! offers a classic matching experience, providing hours of simple yet addictive fun.

• Fortnite remains a dominant force in the battle royale scene, delivering intense action and constant updates.

• Roblox is a platform where users can both play and create games, fostering a vibrant community.

• Township combines city-building and farming simulation, allowing players to develop their own virtual communities.

• Pokémon TCG Pocket brings the collectible card game experience to mobile devices, offering strategic battles.

• Royal Kingdom presents a captivating strategy game where players build and defend their kingdoms.

• Clash Royale blends card collecting with real-time strategy, resulting in fast-paced and competitive matches.

• Vita Mahjong provides a relaxing and mentally stimulating experience with classic mahjong tile matching.

• Whiteout Survival challenges players to endure harsh conditions and build a refuge in a frozen landscape.

• Last War: Survival immerses players in a post-apocalyptic world, demanding strategic resource management and defense.

These free iPhone games represent a selection of the most popular and highly-rated titles currently available. They offer a wide spectrum of gameplay experiences, ensuring there’s an option for nearly any mobile gamer.

Popular Premium iPhone Games

The App Store offers a wide selection of games, and many of the most engaging experiences come with a price tag. Here's a look at some of the top-rated and most-played paid games currently available for iPhone.

Highly Recommended iPhone Games

Several titles consistently rank among the favorites of iPhone gamers. These games offer diverse gameplay experiences, from creative building to strategic challenges.

• Minecraft: Dream it, Build it! This enduringly popular game allows players to construct anything they can imagine in a block-based world.
• Balatro: A poker-inspired roguelike deckbuilder that has quickly gained a dedicated following.
• Heads Up! A hilarious party game where players guess words from clues provided by their friends.
• Plague Inc. A strategically challenging game where you attempt to infect and wipe out the global population with a deadly pathogen.
• Geometry Dash: Known for its challenging platforming and rhythmic gameplay, this title keeps players engaged.
• Bloons TD 6: A popular tower defense game featuring monkeys and balloons, offering hours of strategic fun.
• Stardew Valley: A charming farming simulation game that allows players to build and manage their own rural life.
• Papa’s Freezeria To Go! Manage a bustling freezeria, serving up delicious frozen treats to demanding customers.
• Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp: Create and customize your own campsite, interacting with adorable animal characters.
• Red’s First Flight: A delightful and accessible game about a little red bird learning to fly.

These top paid iPhone games represent a variety of genres and play styles, ensuring there's something for every mobile gamer. Each offers a unique and immersive experience worth the investment.

Top Free iPad Applications

The iPad offers a wealth of applications, and many of the most popular are available at no cost. This article highlights some of the leading free iPad apps currently available to users.

Entertainment Options

For streaming enthusiasts, several excellent choices exist. YouTube remains a dominant platform for video content.

Netflix provides a vast library of films and television series. Similarly, Disney+ offers access to content from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic.

Amazon Prime Video is another strong contender in the streaming space, offering a diverse selection of movies and shows. HBO Max: Stream Movies & TV delivers premium content from HBO and Warner Bros.

Short-form video is readily available through TikTok – Videos, Shop & LIVE, a platform known for its engaging and viral content.

Productivity and Utility

The iPad isn't just for entertainment; it's also a powerful productivity tool. Google Chrome provides a familiar and robust web browsing experience.

For note-taking and document management, Goodnotes: AI Notes, Docs, PDF is a highly-rated application. It leverages AI to enhance the user experience.

Creative Tools

Users interested in graphic design and video editing can explore Canva: AI Photo & Video Editor. This app simplifies the creation of visually appealing content.

AI-Powered Assistance

ChatGPT, a leading conversational AI, is also accessible as a free iPad app. It can assist with a wide range of tasks, from answering questions to generating text.

These applications represent just a fraction of the free software available for the iPad. They demonstrate the device’s versatility and its ability to cater to diverse user needs.

Top Paid iPad Applications

The iPad’s versatility is greatly enhanced by its extensive app ecosystem. While many excellent apps are available for free, a selection of premium, paid applications consistently rank among the most popular and highly-rated.

Creative Tools

For digital artists, several paid iPad apps stand out. Procreate is a powerful and intuitive painting and illustration app, favored by professionals and hobbyists alike.

Expanding on creative possibilities, Procreate Dreams offers a unique approach to animation and graphic design. It provides a versatile toolkit for bringing imaginative visions to life.

ToonSquid is another notable application for animators. It specializes in creating dynamic 2D animations with a focus on fluidity and expression.

Sculpting enthusiasts will appreciate Nomad Sculpt. This app allows for detailed 3D modeling and sculpting directly on the iPad, offering a surprisingly robust feature set.

Feather: Draw in 3D provides a different avenue for artistic expression. It enables users to create stunning 3D drawings and illustrations with ease.

Productivity and Utility

Beyond creative pursuits, several paid apps cater to productivity and specific professional needs. forScore is the leading sheet music reader for musicians, offering extensive organization and annotation features.

Users seeking enhanced internet control can benefit from Shadowrocket. This app functions as a powerful proxy utility, offering advanced configuration options.

For students and language learners, AnkiMobile Flashcards is an invaluable tool. It utilizes spaced repetition to optimize memorization and learning.

Professionals in architecture and engineering often rely on Bluebeam Revu for iPad. This app provides comprehensive PDF markup and collaboration capabilities.

Educational Applications

The iPad also hosts excellent paid educational apps. Teach Your Monster to Read is a phonics-based game designed to help children learn to read in a fun and engaging way.

These applications represent a diverse range of the top paid offerings available on the iPad. They demonstrate the platform’s ability to cater to a wide spectrum of user needs and interests.

Top Free iPad Games

The iPad provides a fantastic platform for mobile gaming, and a wealth of options are available without spending a dime. Here's a curated list of some of the best free iPad games currently available.

Popular Choices

Several games consistently rank high in popularity due to their engaging gameplay and frequent updates. These titles offer hours of entertainment for a diverse range of players.

• Roblox: This platform allows users to create and play games developed by other users, offering virtually limitless variety.
• Block Blast!: A classic puzzle game where players match blocks to clear the board, providing a simple yet addictive experience.
• Fortnite: A globally renowned battle royale game, Fortnite delivers intense action and strategic gameplay.
• Perfect Tidy: Engage in satisfying organization challenges within this uniquely themed puzzle game.
• Magic Tiles 3: Piano Game: Test your reflexes and musicality by tapping piano tiles in time with the music.

Casual and Relaxing Games

For those seeking a more laid-back gaming experience, several titles offer calming gameplay and easy-to-learn mechanics.

• Mini Games: Calm & Chill: A collection of simple, relaxing mini-games designed to provide a stress-free gaming experience.
• Goods Puzzle: Sort Challenge: A color-matching puzzle game that challenges your organizational skills.

Action-Packed and Competitive Titles

If you prefer fast-paced action and competitive gameplay, these games are worth checking out.

• hole.io: Control a black hole and consume everything in your path in this quirky and addictive game.
• Subway Surfers: An endless runner where you evade obstacles while collecting coins and power-ups.
• Township: A blend of city-building and farming simulation, allowing players to create and manage their own thriving town.

This selection represents just a fraction of the free games available for the iPad. Exploring the App Store will reveal even more options to suit individual preferences.

Popular Premium iPad Games

The iPad offers a fantastic gaming experience, and a wide selection of paid games are available. These titles generally provide more in-depth gameplay and often lack the in-app purchase pressures found in free-to-play options.

Highly Rated iPad Games

Here's a curated list of some of the top-rated and most engaging paid games currently available for the iPad platform.

• Minecraft: Dream it, Build it! This enduringly popular title allows players to construct elaborate worlds and embark on creative adventures.
• Geometry Dash: Known for its challenging, rhythm-based platforming, Geometry Dash demands precision and timing.
• Stardew Valley: A charming farming simulation RPG where players cultivate a farm, build relationships, and explore a vibrant community.
• Balatro: A poker-inspired roguelike deckbuilder that offers a unique and addictive gameplay loop.
• Bloons TD 6: A tower defense game featuring monkeys and balloons, offering strategic depth and hours of entertainment.
• Plague Inc.: A strategically challenging simulation where players attempt to infect and wipe out the global population with a deadly pathogen.
• Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp: A mobile iteration of the beloved Animal Crossing series, allowing players to create and customize their own campsite.
• Poppy Playtime Chapter 3: A continuation of the horror adventure series, featuring unsettling environments and challenging puzzles.
• Purple Place – Classic Games: A compilation offering a variety of retro-style games for nostalgic players.
• Papa’s Sushiria To Go!: Manage your own sushi restaurant in this fast-paced time-management game from the Papa's series.

These iPad games represent a diverse range of genres, ensuring there's something to appeal to every type of gamer. Investing in these premium titles often provides a more complete and satisfying gaming experience.

Premier Titles Available on Apple Arcade

Apple Arcade provides a curated selection of mobile games, offering a premium gaming experience without in-app purchases or advertisements. Several titles consistently rank among the most popular and critically acclaimed.

Highly Recommended Games

The following represents a current list of standout games available through the Apple Arcade subscription service.

• NFL Retro Bowl ’26: This title delivers a nostalgic, pixelated football experience.
• NBA 2K25 Arcade Edition: Enjoy a streamlined basketball simulation designed for mobile play.
• Balatro+: A unique poker-inspired roguelike deckbuilder offering addictive gameplay.
• Snake.io+: A modern take on the classic Snake game, featuring multiplayer action.
• Sneaky Sasquatch: Embark on a humorous adventure as a Sasquatch navigating the human world.
• Hello Kitty Island Adventure: Explore a charming open-world adventure with Hello Kitty and friends.
• Fruit Ninja Classic+: The original Fruit Ninja experience, enhanced for Apple Arcade.
• Bloons TD 6+: A popular tower defense game with a wide variety of monkeys and upgrades.
• PGA TOUR Pro Golf: Experience realistic golf gameplay on iconic courses.
• Solitaire by MobilityWare+: A polished and feature-rich solitaire experience.

These games represent a diverse range of genres, ensuring there’s something to appeal to every type of mobile gamer. The Apple Arcade service is continually updated with new content, providing ongoing value for subscribers.

Subscribers benefit from access to this entire library with a single monthly subscription. This makes it a cost-effective option for those who enjoy playing multiple mobile games regularly.