ChatGPT Breaks Records with 46 Million Global Downloads
In a stunning twist in the mobile app ecosystem, OpenAI’s ChatGPT has officially become the most downloaded app in the world for March 2025, according to new data released by Appfigures. Surpassing social media giants like Instagram and TikTok, ChatGPT has secured its place at the top with a staggering 46 million downloads globally—13 million on iOS and 33 million on Android.
This milestone marks a major shift in user behavior and app preferences, as AI tools continue to rise in popularity and utility. What’s even more impressive is the 28% surge in downloads from February to March and a 148% year-over-year growth comparing Q1 2025 to Q1 2024. The surge has been largely driven by recent innovations in the app, including the rollout of GPT-4o-powered image generation and the viral popularity of its Ghibli-style AI artwork.
Instagram, which had been a consistent leader throughout 2024, slipped to second place with 46 million downloads—though heavily skewed towards Android users (41 million). TikTok, which has been a subject of intense global scrutiny due to possible U.S. bans, dropped to third with 45 million downloads in total.
The mobile app market, especially the non-gaming segment, has shown remarkable growth. Collectively, the top 10 apps in March amassed 339 million downloads—a notable increase from February’s 299 million. ChatGPT’s rapid climb to the top is not only a testament to its expanding user base but also reflects a broader cultural shift toward AI-enhanced productivity and creativity tools.
What Undercode Say:
ChatGPT’s dramatic rise to the number one spot is more than just a headline—it signals a tectonic shift in how people are engaging with technology. For years, social media apps like Instagram and TikTok dominated download charts globally, feeding on users’ need for connection, content, and entertainment. But ChatGPT’s victory in March highlights something fundamentally different: a collective move toward digital tools that offer more than entertainment—they offer assistance, automation, and even artistry.
There are several reasons behind this AI-powered app’s massive growth. First, the introduction of GPT-4o’s image generation capabilities has taken user experience to the next level. By allowing users to create vivid AI art, including stylized Ghibli-like visuals, ChatGPT has blurred the line between creative tool and conversational assistant. This has broadened its appeal far beyond just tech enthusiasts and developers.
Second, there’s the timing. TikTok’s ongoing legal troubles, especially with talks of a U.S. ban, may have caused a dip in downloads. Likewise, Instagram’s growth appears to be plateauing. In contrast, ChatGPT is riding the wave of AI hype, bolstered by mainstream interest and adoption across age groups, industries, and even education sectors.
Another important element is ChatGPT’s presence across both platforms. While many apps tend to perform better on Android due to global availability and affordability, ChatGPT saw substantial downloads on iOS as well, showing a strong cross-platform demand. That balance is something even Instagram struggled with this month.
From a developer’s standpoint, this is a milestone for OpenAI. It confirms the viability of AI-driven apps as major players in the mainstream mobile space. It also raises questions: Are users replacing social media screen time with productivity apps? Is AI becoming a new form of digital entertainment and engagement?
The increase in downloads also suggests growing user trust and dependence on AI tools. Whether it’s for work, school, or creative exploration, ChatGPT is no longer just a novelty—it’s becoming an essential app for millions. That said, sustainability remains a question. Can OpenAI keep the momentum going? Will they continue to innovate fast enough to retain attention in an ever-crowded app landscape?
One thing’s clear: the app marketplace is evolving. AI is no longer a niche. It’s mainstream—and leading the charge is ChatGPT.
Fact Checker Results:
- Verified by Appfigures, ChatGPT had 46 million downloads in March 2025.
- OpenAI’s upgrades to GPT-4o directly influenced user engagement and growth.
- ChatGPT surpassed Instagram and TikTok in both iOS and Android combined downloads.
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