Top 10 Global Social Apps by Downloads in 2024: Chinese Products Take Four Spots
Based on industry estimates, this report lists the top 10 social apps by global downloads in 2024, with Chinese overseas apps like TikTok, SHEIN, and CapCut standing out.
Overview of Global Social App Downloads
Based on industry estimates, the top 10 global social apps by downloads in 2024 show the following pattern:
- 1st: TikTok - approx. 820 million downloads, up 12% YoY, continuing to lead globally.
- 2nd: Instagram - approx. 650 million downloads, stable growth.
- 3rd: WhatsApp - approx. 580 million downloads, benefited from emerging market penetration.
- 4th: Facebook - approx. 490 million downloads, mature market growth slowing.
- 5th: Telegram - approx. 320 million downloads, privacy features attract users.
- 6th: SHEIN (cross-border e-commerce with social features) - approx. 280 million downloads, a Chinese overseas app.
- 7th: CapCut - approx. 250 million downloads, driven by TikTok ecosystem.
- 8th: Snapchat - approx. 230 million downloads, favored by Gen Z.
- 9th: Likee (Joyy Inc.) - approx. 190 million downloads, Chinese overseas app.
- 10th: Bigo Live (Joyy Inc.) - approx. 160 million downloads, live social platform.
Performance of Chinese Overseas Apps
Among the top 10, Chinese overseas apps occupy four spots: TikTok, SHEIN, CapCut, Likee, and Bigo Live (two companies). TikTok leads by a wide margin; SHEIN has risen rapidly with its shopping+social model; CapCut benefits from the short video trend; Joyy Inc.'s two apps perform steadily in Southeast Asia and the Middle East.
Data Sources and Notes
This ranking is based on industry estimates (e.g., Sensor Tower, App Annie). Downloads only include iOS App Store and Google Play Store, excluding third-party channels. Actual data may vary; for reference only.
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