Softonic Global Download & Trends Report 2024: Key Statistics, Insights, and Future Trends

At Softonic, we are in a privileged position to analyze the trends revealed by application downloads. Our global reach allows us to identify key shifts in user behavior and anticipate the evolution of the digital landscape. The year 2024 has been one of exceptional growth for Softonic, marked by an increase in downloads, the consolidation of artificial intelligence in software, and a growing demand for digital security.

A great year for Softonic

Softonic has experienced remarkable growth in 2024, with a 43.6% increase in downloads, reaching a total of 262.55 million downloads throughout the year. Our platform has recorded nearly one billion sessions and a user base that now stands at 873 million individuals and businesses.

Analyzing user profiles, we find interesting data. On average, each session lasts 41 minutes, with 1.13 active sessions per user. Most of our users fall within the 18 to 24-year-old segment and primarily access our services through Android devices.

Among the most downloaded applications from our platform in 2024, the following stand out:

• Grand Theft Auto V: With 14.7 million downloads, it leads the gaming sector and tops the annual top 10.
• Microsoft Word: Surpassing 8.6 million downloads, making it the number one productivity tool.
• Adobe Photoshop CC and Roblox: Both applications stand out among the most downloaded, securing spots in the top 10 for creative tools and interactive gaming.

Digital security and artificial intelligence take center stage

The rise of digital threats has led to the widespread adoption of more and better cybersecurity solutions. In 2023, cyberattacks accounted for an economic impact equivalent to 1.5% of global GDP, and the use of AI in cyberattacks has surged by 600% in the first months of 2024. In response to this scenario, the download of security programs from our platforms worldwide has grown significantly. Avast Free Antivirus, with over 407,000 downloads, leads the sector, while VPN services, such as Cloudflare’s 1.1.1.1, have gained considerable popularity even among less tech-savvy users.

Artificial intelligence has been the other major protagonist of 2024. Corporate investment in AI has been growing at an annual rate of 27%, with expectations to rise from $166 billion in 2023 to $423 billion in 2027. At Softonic, we have expanded our catalog of AI-focused applications, reaching over 10,000 specialized tools, while more than 30,000 applications have integrated AI features in some form.

In the workplace, AI is no longer a project but a reality. 46% of employees now use AI in their work, with the highest adoption rate among those aged 18 to 24. The standout tool in this area is ChatGPT, which has seen a 629% increase in downloads over the year, making it the most popular AI application with an impressive 632,000 downloads.

Of course, major software and office productivity names like Microsoft and Adobe continue to dominate the market, accounting for 7.5% of all downloads from our platforms. Microsoft Office, Microsoft Copilot, and Adobe Sensei lead AI integration within established software suites.

The evolution of gaming, mobile browsing, and digital creativity

Gaming continues to be a sector experiencing explosive growth. In 2024, the global video game market has reached $187.7 billion, with a clear shift towards mobile gaming. On our platforms, game downloads have increased by 89.6%, with titles such as Roblox, Minecraft Pocket Edition, Brawl Stars, and Mobile Legends leading the rankings in entertainment.

Mobile browsing continues to grow across all areas. While 70% of users play games on their smartphones, at Softonic, 59.2% of accesses come from mobile devices. In this field, Google Chrome, with 2.4 million downloads, leads the browser sector. What do users expect from a good browser? Based on searches and downloads, they not only want web access but also value security tools, digital wallets, and productivity features.

Messaging and social media applications remain on the rise. WhatsApp leads the sector with 6.35 million downloads from our platforms, while Telegram and Instagram continue expanding their reach. The growth of editing and content creation tools like CapCut and Wink is directly linked to the increasing importance of multimedia creation designed specifically for social media.

Looking ahead to 2025 and beyond

The data clearly shows that the future of software is shaped by the integration of artificial intelligence and all the innovations it brings. Improved connectivity and the growing awareness of security and sustainability are key elements of a market where users expect more from their applications.

AI-driven personalization is becoming the standard, where applications are increasingly proactive and better tailored to user needs. First text, then images and audio, followed by video—this is the evolution we’ve seen so far. What comes next? A fully integrated service that combines all these elements seamlessly into users’ daily lives, providing utility in their areas of interest.

In terms of connectivity—vital for app experiences—the adoption of 5G and the first signs of 6G are bringing speed and latency improvements that redefine what applications can achieve. Cloud gaming, augmented and virtual reality, and an even greater dominance of mobile are on the horizon, if not already here.

With this, security and sustainability take center stage. The trends we are witnessing point toward technology that is responsible for both our privacy and our planet.

At Softonic, we will continue expanding our application catalog, integrating AI technologies, and adapting to—and anticipating—the needs of businesses and users who place their trust in us.