DeepSeek AI tops global mobile app downloads

DeepSeek’s AI chatbot has achieved the top position in global mobile app downloads, with particularly strong adoption in India.

Market dominance: DeepSeek’s AI assistant has secured the number one position in Apple’s App Store across 140 markets since January 26, 2025, marking a significant milestone in the competitive AI assistant landscape.

• The app’s success spans multiple geographical regions, with India emerging as the largest market contributing 15.6% of total downloads
• The achievement encompasses downloads across various platforms since the app’s initial launch
• The data analysis excludes third-party app stores in China, focusing on official distribution channels

Global market dynamics: The rapid rise to the top spot highlights the growing demand for AI-powered conversational assistants in mobile applications.

• DeepSeek’s performance demonstrates the increasing mainstream adoption of AI chatbots for everyday use
• The strong showing in India suggests a particularly receptive market for AI technology in emerging economies
• The app’s global reach across 140 markets indicates broad international appeal for AI assistant technology

Strategic implications: The success in varied markets presents both opportunities and challenges for DeepSeek’s continued growth.

• The high download numbers in India could signal potential for further expansion in other emerging markets
• Maintaining the top position will require consistent performance and feature updates to stay ahead of competitors
• The exclusion of Chinese third-party app stores from the data suggests untapped potential in that market

Looking ahead: While current download numbers are impressive, the true test for DeepSeek will be maintaining user engagement and converting initial downloads into active, long-term users in an increasingly competitive AI assistant marketplace.