Tech experts at SetApp have published a new report revealing the most popular apps of 2024, with Instagram leading the pack.
Instagram achieved a remarkable popularity score of 90, amassing 696 million downloads this year and maintaining an average user rating of 4.5. Its success can be credited to its sleek interface and innovative features like Stories and Reels, alongside its robust e-commerce capabilities, which have kept it ahead in the social media sphere.
The report evaluated app popularity across different categories, such as social media, messaging, gaming, and shopping.
The analysis used data from the Google Play Store, Apple App Store, and sources like Business of Apps and Appfigures, with each app receiving a score out of 100 based on downloads, user ratings, and overall satisfaction.
Key Highlights from the Top 10 Apps
Coming in second is TikTok, scoring 85 in popularity. With 654 million downloads and a 4.6 user rating, TikTok’s appeal continues to grow, especially among younger users captivated by its trend-based, short-form videos.
Facebook ranked third, maintaining a strong presence with 553 million downloads. However, a lower rating of 4.0 hints at user concerns regarding privacy and general fatigue.
In the messaging category, WhatsApp leads with 475 million downloads and a popularity score of 74, attributed to its end-to-end encryption and versatile features for both individual and business communication. Telegram follows with a score of 60, appealing to users prioritizing secure messaging.
Temu also gained traction in the shopping category, scoring 51 with 274 million downloads and an impressive average rating of 4.65.
CapCut, a video editing app, secured its place among the top five with 389 million downloads and a 4.55 rating, benefiting from its close association with TikTok.
The Top 10 Most Popular Apps of 2024
- Instagram – 696 million downloads | Rating: 4.5 | Score: 90
- TikTok – 654 million downloads | Rating: 4.6 | Score: 85
- Facebook – 553 million downloads | Rating: 4.0 | Score: 83
- WhatsApp – 475 million downloads | Rating: 4.55 | Score: 74
- CapCut – 389 million downloads | Rating: 4.55 | Score: 64
- Telegram – 355 million downloads | Rating: 4.35 | Score: 60
- Snapchat – 343 million downloads | Rating: 4.4 | Score: 59
- Subway Surfers – 304 million downloads | Rating: 4.45 | Score: 54
- Zoom – 300 million downloads | Rating: 4.5 | Score: 54
- Temu – 274 million downloads | Rating: 4.65 | Score: 51
Expert Insights on the Leading Apps
Experts at SetApp emphasized that these top apps succeed by continuously innovating and engaging their audiences. “Instagram’s seamless integration of e-commerce features keeps it in high demand,” they noted.
Similarly, TikTok’s popularity remains on the rise, particularly among younger demographics, due to its sophisticated algorithms and trend-driven content.
The report also highlighted Facebook’s resilient user base, despite declining ratings linked to privacy and data security concerns. Meanwhile, apps like WhatsApp and Telegram continue to perform well, as more users gravitate toward secure communication platforms.
As the digital landscape evolves, the report underscores the importance of innovation and prioritizing user security for apps aiming to stay competitive.
The ongoing success of Instagram and TikTok shows that platforms capable of adapting quickly to emerging trends and user needs are best positioned for growth. Conversely, the strong performance of apps like WhatsApp and Telegram suggests that privacy features are becoming an increasingly important factor for users in today’s digital environment.
