According to analytics firm Appfigures, ChatGPT emerged as the most downloaded mobile application globally in March, overtaking Instagram and TikTok, which have historically held the top positions.

As reported by Appfigures (via TechCrunch), downloads of ChatGPT surged by 28% compared to February, reaching 46 million new installs. This marks the highest monthly figure for ChatGPT to date.

A significant factor behind this rise in popularity was the app's feature updates, particularly enhancements in image generation that enabled users to create memes and illustrations in the style of Studio Ghibli. Additionally, OpenAI revamped the voice feature of ChatGPT and lifted several content moderation restrictions. The app's popularity has also increased due to its association with the concept of artificial intelligence, akin to how Google was synonymous with search in the 2000s.

In March, social apps Facebook and WhatsApp also made it to the top five in downloads, while others like Temu, CapCut, Telegram, Snapchat, and Threads rounded out the top ten.

Overall, the top 10 apps were downloaded 339 million times in March, exceeding February's total of 299 million.