We call it a smartphone, but that little device that’s always within reach is more like an electronic multi-tool. It’s a camera, a video camera, a GPS, a translator, a compass, an encyclopaedia, an on-the-go music player, and so much more – all thanks to a combination of technology and nifty apps designed to fulfil your every need.
The SA scene
Interestingly, in South Africa, app publishers focus much more on releasing apps (91%) versus games (just 9%). Based on downloads, the top three app publishers in the country are MultiChoice Support Services, SuperSport Online (we South Africans love our sport), and Vodacom – but seriously, have you seen all the amazing prizes waiting to be unlocked this summer on VodaPay?
Now, here are the most downloaded apps worldwide….
TikTok
Downloads: >175 million
If you’re not on TikTok yet, the key thing you need to know about this app is that it’s not another social network. Unlike Facebook and Instagram (more on them later), TikTok isn’t trying to connect you with friends you haven’t seen since high school; its goal is to entertain. TikTok wants to compete with the likes of YouTube, Netflix and good old-fashioned TV. And they’re getting it right. The algorithm promotes content based on how watchable it is, not how many followers the creator has. And it’s pro at figuring out what you like and giving you more of the same. The other thing you need to know: It’s not all dance challenges. From #booktok to #gymtok to #cleantok, there’s content for every interest.
Downloads: >150 million
Video has become the big trend in content over the past five years or so. Expect more reels (IG’s answer to TikTok) and more video in your feed as well. Did you know you can add music to an Instagram post?
Downloads: >150 million
Gen Z may snigger at Facebook as being the app their parents and grandparents are on, but that doesn’t mean the OG social network is on its way out. It’s only the fourth most downloaded app in the Apple App Store, but it’s the second most downloaded app in the Google Play Store (after Instagram). Facebook is also going after TikTok, so expect to see more content from accounts you don’t follow annoyingly popping up in your feed – and even more annoyingly, expect to find them engaging.
Downloads: 125 million
Despite a slew of outraged users declaring their intent to jump ship after WhatsApp was fined €225 million towards the end of last year for being cagey around how it was handling users’ personal information, it remains the most downloaded messaging app. It also has the second-highest number of active users monthly after Facebook. Convenience trumps righteous indignation.
Telegram
Downloads: >100 million
Not everyone chooses convenience though. WhatsApp’s biggest rival, Telegram, saw a massive surge in downloads after WhatsApp’s original announcement of questionable changes to its privacy policy at the beginning of 2021. Telegram continues to ride high, not least because you can send large media files, which saves you the trouble of having to downsize your pics and videos.
VodaPay App
Manage your account, buy bundles, view our latest promotions, pay your bills, get exclusive access to the VodaBucks store, plus so much more!
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