10 best apps of 2024: Instagram takes the lead – see who else won

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 attributed to its sleek interface and innovative features like Stories and Reels, as well as its robust e-commerce features that have given it an edge in the social media sphere.

The report assessed the app’s popularity across categories such as social media, messaging, gaming and shopping.

The analysis used data from the Google Play Store, Apple App Store and sources such as Business of Apps and Appfigures, with each app rated out of 100 based on downloads, user ratings and overall satisfaction.

Top 10 App Highlights

In second place is TikTok, which scored 85 popularity points. With 654 million downloads and a user rating of 4.6, TikTok’s appeal continues to grow, especially among younger users who are captivated by short, trend-driven videos.

Facebook took third place, maintaining a strong position with 553 million downloads. However, the lower 4.0 rating indicates user concerns about privacy and overall fatigue.

In the messaging category, WhatsApp is the leader with 475 million downloads and a popularity score of 74, which is due to end-to-end encryption and comprehensive features for individual and business communication. In second place is Telegram with a score of 60, which appeals to users who prioritize secure messaging.

Ago also gained popularity in the shopping category, scoring 51 points with 274 million downloads and an impressive average rating of 4.65.

CapCut, a video editing app, secured its spot in the top five with 389 million downloads and a 4.55 rating thanks to its close association with TikTok.

Top 10 most popular apps in 2024

1. Instagram – 696 million downloads | Rating: 4.5 | Score: 90
2. TikTok – 654 million downloads | Rating: 4.6 | Score: 85
3. Facebook – 553 million downloads | Rating: 4.0 | Score: 83
4. WhatsApp – 475 million downloads | Rating: 4.55 | Score: 74
5. HatCut – 389 million downloads | Rating: 4.55 | Score: 64
6. Telegram – 355 million downloads | Rating: 4.35 | Score: 60
7. Snapchat – 343 million downloads | Rating: 4.4 | Score: 59
8. Subway surfers – 304 million downloads | Rating: 4.45 | Score: 54
9. Buzz – 300 million downloads | Rating: 4.5 | Score: 54
10. Ago – 274 million downloads | Rating: 4.65 | Score: 51

Expert insights on leading apps

SetApp experts emphasized that these top apps are successful because they continually innovate and engage their audiences. “Instagram’s seamless integration of e-commerce features makes it highly popular,” they noted.

Similarly, TikTok’s popularity continues to grow, especially among younger demographics, due to its sophisticated algorithms and trend-driven content.

The report also highlighted Facebook’s resilient user base despite falling ratings amid privacy and data security concerns. Meanwhile, apps like WhatsApp and Telegram continue to perform well as more users gravitate towards secure messaging platforms.

As the digital landscape evolves, the report highlights the importance of innovation and prioritizing user security for applications to remain competitive.

The continued success of Instagram and TikTok shows that platforms that can quickly adapt to emerging trends and user needs are best positioned for growth. On the other hand, 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.