Nowadays, the use of smartphones is not limited to making calls, sending messages or using social media. Mobile apps have now become an important part of education, employment, entertainment and daily tasks. Interestingly, people’s choice of downloading apps is also changing. Apps related to Artificial Intelligence (AI), short videos and astrology are attracting user attention. At the same time, there are some categories in which downloads have declined.

According to Sensor Tower’s 2026 report, downloads of generative AI apps in India are expected to grow by 205 percent year-on-year through 2025. Downloads of education and job-related apps also increased by 39 percent. These figures show that people are now using smartphones not only for entertainment but also for learning new things and making their work easier.

Why is the trend towards AI apps increasing?

Generative AI apps have changed the way we use smartphones to a great extent. With their help, users can get answers to questions, understand the topic, get help in writing articles and even generate new ideas. From studying students to office workers, these apps are being used for different needs.

Apps like ChatGPT have played an important role in popularizing AI technology among common users. A 205 percent increase in downloads of generative AI apps by 2025 in India reflects this growing interest. However, the increase in downloads does not mean that every user is using these apps regularly.

The craze for short episodic stories grew

Entertainment apps are also maintaining their place in people’s choice. Especially short dramas and stories shown in short episodes are attracting users. On these apps, the story is progressed in a short span of time, so that people can enjoy it even in their free time.

According to a Sensor Tower report, downloads of media and entertainment apps in India are expected to increase by 20 percent during 2025. This trend shows that the way content is viewed on mobile is changing. Along with long videos and movies, users are also downloading apps for short stories.

Reduce downloads of social media apps

Instagram, WhatsApp and other social media platforms are still an important part of people’s digital lives. With their help, people stay in touch with friends and family, share photos and videos, and keep up with the latest trends. However, in the year 2025, total downloads of social media apps are expected to decline by 17 percent.

This decline cannot be considered as a sign of the end of the popularity of social media. Download statistics do not tell us how many people are still active using the app. It is possible that these apps are already present on the phones of many users and do not need to be downloaded again.

Demand for education and job apps has also increased

Apart from AI apps, downloads of education and job related apps increased by 39 percent. People try to learn new skills, take online courses and get job related information through such apps.

Overall, the Sensor Tower report points to the changing preferences of smartphone users. With the growing demand for AI and entertainment apps, education and career related platforms are also gaining attention. At the same time, the decline in downloads of social media apps is a reminder that simply looking at download statistics is not enough to understand the popularity of apps.

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