How did ChatGPT surpass all rivals in user revenue?
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Synopsis
Since its launch, ChatGPT has shattered records, amassing $2 billion in user spending. With a staggering 673% revenue growth and millions of downloads, discover the secrets behind its success and how it outperformed competitors in the mobile app market.
Key Takeaways
- ChatGPT generated $2 billion in user revenue since May 2023.
- Revenue growth of 673% year-over-year was reported in 2025.
- ChatGPT achieved 318 million downloads in 2025.
- India leads with 13.7% of lifetime installs.
- American users accounted for 38% of global revenue.
New Delhi, Aug 16 (NationPress) Since its debut in May 2023, users around the globe have spent $2 billion on the ChatGPT mobile app available on iOS and Android, as reported on Saturday.
In 2025, the app's revenue skyrocketed by 673 percent compared to the previous year.
The application achieved 318 million downloads in 2025, which is 2.8 times greater than the same timeframe last year, according to TechCrunch.
India leads in lifetime installs at 13.7 percent, followed by the US at 10.3 percent. However, American users contributed more than 38 percent of ChatGPT's total global revenue. The average spending per download in the US is $10, while in Germany it is 5.3 percent.
Users of ChatGPT pay for premium features, including a ChatGPT Plus subscription priced at $20 per month, which grants access to advanced models like GPT-5, increased usage limits, and enhanced capabilities.
ChatGPT has outshined all competitors in lifetime revenue per install, averaging $2.91. Anthropic's Claude trails at $2.55, while Elon Musk's Grok is at $0.75. Microsoft’s Copilot app is lagging behind at just $0.27.
Analysts suggest Grok's lackluster performance stems from its late launch on mobile. The standalone iOS app from xAI became available only in January 2025, with Android support added in March, which hampered its growth in the app market.
Meanwhile, Musk, the founder of xAI, alleges that OpenAI’s ChatGPT ranks first on the Apple Store due to Apple’s favoritism, while his applications, X and xAI’s Grok, are neglected.
Apple has denied any claims that its App Store algorithms or curated lists favor ChatGPT over Musk's applications.
“The App Store is designed to be equitable and devoid of bias,” the company stated, emphasizing that recommendations rely on charts, algorithms, and expert editorial curation based on objective standards, according to several media sources.
GPT-5 is accessible to all users, with Plus subscribers enjoying increased usage and Pro subscribers gaining access to GPT-5 Pro, a version that offers enhanced reasoning for more thorough and accurate responses.
Point of View
It is crucial to provide an unbiased analysis of ChatGPT's meteoric rise in the mobile app market. The data indicates not only a remarkable growth trajectory but also highlights the competitive landscape. Our commitment to providing accurate and insightful reporting remains at the forefront.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the total revenue generated by ChatGPT?
ChatGPT has generated a total of $2 billion in user spending since its launch in May 2023.
How does ChatGPT's revenue growth compare to its competitors?
ChatGPT experienced a 673% year-over-year revenue increase, outpacing competitors like Anthropic’s Claude and Microsoft’s Copilot.
Which country has the highest user spending on ChatGPT?
The United States accounts for over 38% of ChatGPT's global revenue.
What features do users pay for in ChatGPT?
Users can pay for premium features such as the ChatGPT Plus subscription, which costs $20 per month and offers access to advanced models and enhanced functionality.
What are the download numbers for ChatGPT?
In 2025, the app reached 318 million downloads, marking a 2.8 times increase from the previous year.
