ChatGPT mobile app surpasses $3 billion in global consumer spending

TechCrunch
TechCrunch
2h ago
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ChatGPT’s mobile app reached $3 billion in consumer spending faster than major streaming and social apps, showing rapid AI monetization.
ChatGPT mobile app surpasses $3 billion in global consumer spending
A What happened
ChatGPT’s mobile app has surpassed $3 billion in consumer spending globally since its release in 2023. In 2025, spending surged by over 400% compared to 2024, driven by paid subscriptions like ChatGPT Plus and Pro. This rapid growth outpaced notable apps such as TikTok, Disney+, and HBO Max in reaching the milestone. Rival AI apps such as xAI’s Grok show comparable revenue curves. Besides subscriptions, AI apps are exploring diverse monetization models including developer tools, ads, and app stores, signaling broader economic shifts in AI services consumption.
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Key insights

  • 1

    Rapid AI App Monetization Signals Shifting Consumer Behavior: ChatGPT’s swift revenue growth, surpassing established social and streaming apps, indicates accelerating consumer willingness to pay for AI services on mobile platforms.

  • 2

    Emerging Diverse Revenue Streams in AI Ecosystem: Beyond subscriptions, AI apps are expanding revenue through ad placements, app stores, and developer offerings, suggesting evolving monetization structures in AI software markets.

  • 3

    Competitive Dynamics Reflect AI Market Maturity: The similar growth trajectory of xAI’s Grok reveals that AI-powered apps are entering a competitive phase with rapid adoption and monetization, underscoring increased market validation for AI platforms.

Takeaways

ChatGPT’s mobile app milestone highlights the rapid monetization and mainstream acceptance of AI-powered consumer technologies, reflecting broader shifts in technology adoption and business models.

Topics

Technology & Innovation Artificial Intelligence