A recent report by tech specialists at setapp.com has revealed the most popular apps of 2024, with Instagram securing the top spot.
With an impressive popularity score of 90, Instagram saw 696 million downloads this year, along with an average user rating of 4.5. This success is largely attributed to Instagram’s sleek design and innovative features like Stories, Reels, and its strong e-commerce functionality, keeping it at the forefront of the social media landscape.
The study examined the popularity of apps across a range of categories, including social media, messaging, gaming, and shopping.
Analysts pulled data from the Google Play Store, Apple App Store, and third-party sources like Business of Apps and Appfigures. Each app was scored out of 100, considering downloads, user ratings, and overall satisfaction.
Highlights from the Top 10 Apps
Following closely behind Instagram is TikTok, with a popularity score of 85. TikTok’s 654 million downloads and a 4.6 rating underscore its increasing appeal, particularly among younger users drawn to its trend-based, short-form video content.
Facebook placed third, still holding a strong user base with 553 million downloads. However, its slightly lower 4.0 rating points to growing concerns over privacy and potential user fatigue.
In the messaging category, WhatsApp leads with 475 million downloads and a popularity score of 74, driven by its encryption and versatile features for both personal and business use. Telegram, another messaging app known for its privacy features, earned a score of 60, appealing to those with a strong focus on secure communication.
Temu also made waves in the shopping category, scoring 51 with 274 million downloads and a notable 4.65 average rating.
Video editing app CapCut rounded out the top five, racking up 389 million downloads and a 4.55 rating, thanks to its close ties 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 Opinions on the Top Apps
Experts from setapp.com highlighted how these leading apps are constantly innovating and engaging users. “Instagram’s seamless e-commerce integration has kept it highly relevant and in demand,” they stated.
Similarly, TikTok’s popularity continues to grow among younger audiences, thanks to its cutting-edge algorithms and trend-driven content.
The study also pointed out Facebook’s continued user base, despite its lower ratings due to concerns around privacy and data security. In contrast, messaging apps like WhatsApp and Telegram continue to thrive, with more users prioritizing secure communication platforms.
As the digital landscape continues to shift, the report highlights the importance of staying innovative and prioritizing user security for apps aiming to maintain a competitive edge.
Instagram and TikTok’s success demonstrates that platforms able to swiftly adapt to new trends and user behaviors are best poised for success. Meanwhile, apps like WhatsApp and Telegram show that privacy features are becoming an increasingly significant factor in user choice within today’s digital world.