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Ever wondered which mobile apps billions of people can't live without? The most popular downloaded apps include social media giants like TikTok, Instagram, and WhatsApp, as well as the viral shopping app Temu and the AI assistant ChatGPT, which dominate both iOS and Android platforms.
As Forrester Research highlights, "Users spend 85% of their phone time in apps, making app choice crucial for digital wellbeing." While these free apps entertain and connect you, adding growth-focused apps like Headway can transform idle scrolling into meaningful learning through 15-minute book summaries and daily insights.
Quick insights, personal progress tracking, and sleek design make it one of the most useful apps you'll download this year.
Download the Headway app today and start scrolling smarter!
Quick overview of the most popular downloaded apps:
TikTok leads with 672 million downloads, revolutionizing short-form video content.
Instagram (548M) dominates social media with photo and video sharing.
Temu (483M) disrupts e-commerce with ultra-low prices and gamified shopping.
Facebook (449M) and WhatsApp (424M) maintain Meta's messaging dominance.
CapCut (357M) empowers creators with professional video editing tools.
Keep reading for the ultimate list of the top downloaded apps!
Top 11 most downloaded apps worldwide
Let's explore the mobile apps that have captured billions of users across Google Play and App Store platforms.
1. TikTok — 672 million downloads
TikTok, owned by ByteDance, has revolutionized social media during and after the pandemic. With over 5.48 billion total downloads globally, TikTok is the undisputed king of short-form video content on both Android and iOS.
This top app has evolved beyond entertainment. It's now a major income source and marketing platform for individuals and companies worldwide, from Brazil to the United States.
Features include:
Easy sharing and cross-sharing on social media platforms.
Creating and uploading short video clips.
Advanced video editor with unique editing options.
Following influencer and celebrity accounts.
Extensive filters and sound effects.
Live streaming for longer content.
Free to download and use.
2. Instagram — 548 million downloads
Instagram remains one of the most beloved social media platforms, consistently topping "most downloaded apps" lists. With 1.4 billion monthly users and 3.8 billion total downloads, this Meta-owned platform excels at photo and video sharing.
Like TikTok, Instagram has become essential for business marketing. Major brands, from McDonald's to Disney, regularly post reels to engage their audiences. The platform seamlessly integrates with shopping apps and e-commerce features.
Features include:
24-hour stories feature.
Multiple photo filters.
Photos, videos, and reels posting.
Highlight the best stories on feeds.
Live broadcasting capabilities.
Comment, share, like, and direct message options.
Instagram TV for videos.
Free to download and use.
3. Temu — 483 million downloads
Temu has revolutionized online shopping as a fast-growing e-commerce platform owned by PDD Holdings. This shopping app offers incredibly low prices on everything from electronics to clothing, competing directly with Amazon, Shein, and AliExpress.
The platform's aggressive marketing strategy includes gamification features, recommendations, and significant advertising investments. Temu's success reflects consumers' demand for affordable products during times of economic uncertainty.
Features include:
Extremely competitive pricing on millions of products.
Free shipping on most orders.
Daily deals and flash sales up to 90% off.
Gamified shopping experience with rewards.
Wide product range from fashion to electronics.
Group buying options for additional discounts.
4. Facebook — 449 million downloads
As one of the original social networking giants, Facebook maintains its position with 2.9 billion monthly active users and over 5 billion downloads. This Meta platform remains the best for connecting with family, friends, and interest groups globally.
Facebook's business advertising capabilities rival those of LinkedIn, creating powerful consumer bases and marketing strategies. It's particularly popular among users who also use WhatsApp Messenger and Instagram.
Features include:
Posting commentary, stories, pictures, and videos.
Reacting and commenting on others' posts.
Advanced people search functionality.
Creating large group event pages.
Connection suggestions based on mutual contacts.
Free to download and use.
5. WhatsApp — 424 million downloads
WhatsApp dominates international communication with over 5 billion total downloads, especially popular in regions like Brazil and India. This messaging app enables seamless worldwide communication using internet data instead of costly international plans.
Acquired by Meta in 2014, WhatsApp serves over 1.5 billion users globally. It competes with Telegram and other messaging apps but remains the top choice for international communication.
Features include:
Texting individuals or groups worldwide.
Voice calling individuals or groups.
Video calling capabilities.
Live location sharing.
Document, video, and contact sharing.
Payment options for money transfers (like PhonePe and Cash App).
Free to download and use.
6. CapCut — 357 million downloads
CapCut has become the go-to video editor for TikTok creators and Instagram Reel makers with over 1 billion total downloads. This powerful editing tool offers professional features that rival expensive desktop software.
The app's integration with TikTok's trending sounds makes it indispensable for content creators. It competes with other editing apps but stands out for its user-friendly interface.
Features include:
Extensive music library with trending TikTok sounds.
Options to reverse and split videos.
Professional editing tools for recreating viral videos.
Speed control features.
Free to download and use.
7. Snapchat — 330 million downloads
Snapchat pioneered disappearing messages and remains hugely popular among millennials and Gen Z. With over 1 billion total downloads and 300 million downloads last year, it continues to innovate in privacy-focused social media.
The platform's unique security features set it apart from competitors like Instagram and TikTok. Microsoft and other tech giants have tried to replicate its ephemeral messaging model.
Definition Box: Ephemeral messaging refers to messages that automatically disappear after being viewed or after a set time period, enhancing privacy and encouraging authentic sharing.
Features include:
Fun filters and photo/video effects.
Enhanced privacy and security.
Messages disappear after 24 hours.
Group chat and photo sharing.
Screenshot notifications.
Picture and video sharing.
Free to download and use.
8. Telegram — 310 million downloads
Telegram stands as a powerful WhatsApp alternative with over 500 million monthly active users and 2.1 billion total downloads. This messaging platform excels at large group communications and file sharing.
Popular among businesses and organizations, Telegram offers features that even ChatGPT users appreciate for collaborative work. It's particularly favored in tech-savvy communities.
Features include:
Cross-platform availability on iOS and Android.
Support for mentions and hashtags.
Self-destructing messages.
Public and private channels.
Conversation locking.
Message editing after sending.
Free to use and download.
9. ChatGPT — 280 million downloads
ChatGPT has revolutionized AI interaction on mobile devices, becoming one of the most downloaded apps across both iOS and Android platforms. This Microsoft-backed AI assistant competes with other productivity apps and has transformed how users search, learn, and create content.
The app's success reflects growing demand for AI-powered tools. ChatGPT stands alongside gaming apps like PUBG Mobile, Candy Crush Saga, Minecraft by Mojang, Stardew Valley, Geometry Dash by RobTop Games, and Block Blast in download rankings.
Features include:
Natural language conversations with AI.
Content creation and writing assistance.
Code generation and debugging help.
Image analysis and generation capabilities.
Voice input and conversation mode.
Free to use with ChatGPT Plus subscription option ($19.99/month).
10. Threads — 265 million downloads
Threads emerged as Meta's answer to Twitter (now X), becoming the fastest app to reach 100 million users in just 5 days. This text-based social platform integrates seamlessly with Instagram, allowing users to share thoughts, engage in conversations, and build communities.
The platform's rapid growth reflects users' desire for alternative microblogging platforms. Threads combines Twitter-like features with Meta's established social network infrastructure, attracting users seeking a familiar yet fresh social media experience.
Features include:
500-character posts with photos and videos.
Seamless Instagram integration.
Reposts and quote threads.
Up to 5-minute video uploads.
Free to download and use.
11. Spotify — 238 million downloads
Spotify reigns as the top music and podcasts platform with over 1 billion total downloads, surpassing competitors like YouTube Music, Apple Music, and Amazon Music. With 320 million monthly users, it's essential for music lovers.
The platform's podcast integration rivals dedicated podcast apps. Premium subscriptions eliminate ads, similar to services like Netflix, HBO Max, and Disney+ for video content.
Features include:
Personalized insights on favorite songs and artists.
Private and public playlist creation.
Social music sharing with friends.
Instant song sharing.
AI-powered music recommendations.
Extensive podcast library.
Free with ads; Premium plans from $4.99-$15.99/month.
Why these apps dominate: Expert insights
As Vice President at Forrester Research, Thomas Husson explains, "Mobile is becoming not only the new digital hub but also the bridge to the physical world."
In this context, the rise of shopping apps demonstrates how mobile commerce has transformed consumer behavior. Temu has gained 483 million downloads by consistently providing prices that are 50-90% cheaper than competitors. Shein has become a fast fashion leader by offering trend-based clothing with new styles added daily.
AliExpress from Alibaba connects consumers directly with manufacturers, eliminating middleman markups. These platforms succeed by addressing inflation concerns and the desire for affordable variety.
Dating apps are revolutionizing how people meet and enter into relationships. Tinder, with 63 million downloads in 2025, processes 1.6 billion swipes daily and creates 26 million matches every day.
The app's swipe mechanism and location-based matching have made it the top-rated dating platform. Meanwhile, specialized apps like Bumble help women make the first move, while Hinge focuses on long-term relationships with detailed prompts and conversation starters.
Service apps have improved the convenience of everyday activities. Uber connected 156 million users with drivers at the push of a button, removing the need for riders to hail cabs or call taxi companies. The service going on to offer 30 million rides per day, across 70 countries.
Language learning apps showcase education's mobile evolution. Duolingo gamifies language acquisition with daily streaks and achievement badges, attracting over 500 million users learning 40+ languages. Its lessons and competitive leaderboards make learning addictive rather than tedious.
Make every minute count with Headway book summaries
The average smartphone user spends hours daily on these most popular downloaded apps. While social media and gaming have their place, supplementing screen time with growth-focused apps creates a healthy balance.
The Headway app is a wonderful tool for personal development. It provides 15-minute audio and book summaries from the world’s bestselling non-fiction books so you can learn in a fun, digestible way. Whether you are looking to become more productive, successful, wealthier, or happier, Headway can help.
Download the Headway app today to transform your daily scrolling into meaningful self-improvement!
Frequently asked questions about the most popular downloaded apps
What is the most downloaded app in 2025?
TikTok remains the most downloaded IOS and Android apps globally with over 1 billion active users and 672 million downloads in 2025. The ByteDance-owned platform dominated download charts, surpassing Instagram, WhatsApp, and Facebook. Its short-form video format and algorithm-driven content discovery continue attracting millions of new users daily across all age groups worldwide.
Which apps consume the most battery on your phone?
Video streaming apps like Netflix, YouTube, and Amazon Prime Video typically drain battery the fastest due to constant screen activity and data processing. Gaming apps, including PUBG Mobile, Roblox, and Minecraft, also consume significant power through graphics rendering. Social media apps with video features like TikTok and Instagram can also impact battery life during extended browsing sessions.
Are these apps available worldwide?
Most top apps work globally, though availability varies by region due to local regulations and market strategies. WhatsApp dominates in Brazil and India with massive user bases. Apps like Temu and AliExpress may face regional restrictions in certain countries. Always check your local App Store or Google Play for availability and download the official versions only.
What's the best app for personal growth?
While social media and entertainment apps dominate downloads, growth-focused apps like Headway offer unique value for self-improvement. Headway provides 15-minute book summaries and daily insights from bestselling non-fiction titles. This helps users learn valuable skills and knowledge while managing screen time effectively, transforming idle scrolling into meaningful personal development and learning opportunities.
Do these apps work on both iPhone and Android?
Yes, all top ten apps can be downloaded on both the IOS and Android platforms, which helps maintain differentiation around their accessibility. Keep in mind however, that some of the app's features may vary slightly due to the differences in operating systems. However, you will find that the apps operate in a similar manner regardless of whether you are using the app on the App Store or Google Play.
Which apps are best for business use?
Professional networking and B2B networks can often be found on LinkedIn, while instant business conversations will typically take place on WhatsApp or Telegram with clients or team members. Instagram and TikTok are powerful marketing tools that can raise brand awareness and engage with customers. Microsoft Teams, along with other worker collaboration tools, helps integrate productivity tools, where businesses can work efficiently and productively with remote workers.
