The Generation Zmade up of young people born between the mid-90s and early 2000s, is known for its influence on the digital trends and the consumption of mobile applications. These digital natives They grew up surrounded by technology and social networks, which makes them frequent and demanding users of these tools. A recent study revealed what were the most downloaded applications by this group during 2024 and how they challenged traditional expectations.
The report, prepared by the firm appfigures with data from users aged 18 to 24 in the United Statesanalyzed app downloads in this age group. Although minors were not included for privacy reasons, the study offers a clear view of the technological preferences of this generation.
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Ranking: the 10 most used applications by Generation Z
The study made it clear that Generation Z has a strong focus on applications that offer visual and social interaction experiences, in addition to practicality for content consumption and online purchases. Next, the ranking of the 10 most downloaded applications for the Generation Zwith a clear focus on video and e-commerce platforms.
1. Temu: The e-commerce application leads the ranking with 41.98 million downloads in 2024. This platform stood out for offering products at low prices, promotional coupons and a wide variety of options, which attracted young people. However, he also received criticism for promoting fast fashion.
2. TikTok: With 33.23 million downloads, it remains one of the most popular social networks among young people. Its short video format and the algorithm that personalizes the content mean that the app continues to be the favorite for consuming quick entertainment.
3.Threads: Meta’s new app, designed to compete with X (formerly Twitter), achieved 32.32 million downloads. Threads has captured the attention of Generation Z with its interactive social network proposal.
4. WhatsApp: The app remains relevant with 28.42 million downloads. Its simplicity and effectiveness for communicating in real time keep it among the most downloaded.
5. Instagram: Although it does not lead, it maintains a solid user base with 26.29 million downloads, thanks to its visual interaction tools, publications and videos.
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6. ChatGPT: There is a growing interest in Artificial Intelligence. ChatGPT, with 24.63 million downloads, was positioned as a useful tool for queries and content generation.
7. CapCut: With 21.72 million downloads, CapCut has become a popular app for video editing, especially for creating content on platforms like TikTok.
8. Snapchat: remains relevant with 19.16 million downloads. The app is distinguished by the exchange of ephemeral photos and videos, in addition to offering creative filters.
9. Netflix: The streaming giant continues to be a favorite entertainment option, with 15.61 million downloads. Its variety of content attracts a large part of Generation Z.
10. Shein: The online shopping platform Shein reached 14.68 million downloads. Although it is in tenth place, it is still very popular among young people for its affordable prices and variety of clothing.
Source: Ambito

I am an author and journalist who has worked in the entertainment industry for over a decade. I currently work as a news editor at a major news website, and my focus is on covering the latest trends in entertainment. I also write occasional pieces for other outlets, and have authored two books about the entertainment industry.