Temu and Shein have emerged as leading free iPhone apps downloaded in the UK this year.
- Temu is not only popular in the UK but also ranks highest in multiple international markets.
- While Shein follows closely, puzzle game apps are also trending among users.
- Other notable apps in the UK include social and AI services, reflecting diverse interests.
- The trend illustrates a significant shift towards shopping and interactive apps in the UK.
In 2024, Temu and Shein have been declared the most downloaded free iPhone apps in the United Kingdom, marking a significant presence in the digital marketplace. This recognition highlights their widespread acceptance and popularity among UK users. Temu, in particular, not only tops the UK charts but has also dominated the app download rankings in the United States, Germany, Spain, Ireland, Australia, South Korea, and Mexico. In regions such as Italy, France, and Japan, Temu is positioned as the second most downloaded app, showing its expansive global reach.
Originally launched in the US in September 2022, Temu expanded to the UK last year and serves over 80 international markets as a direct factory platform. The app’s appeal is further strengthened by its efficient delivery service, enabling UK customers to receive orders within one business day. This swift service is bolstered by the recruitment of UK-based sellers, enhancing local engagement and operations.
While Temu leads, Shein, a Chinese online fashion retailer, follows closely in popularity among iPhone users. The trend underscores a growing preference for e-commerce solutions, showcasing the shift towards digital platforms within the fashion industry. alongside these shopping apps, the puzzle game ‘Block Blast!’ captures user interest, reflecting a sustained demand for entertaining and interactive apps.
Other notable mentions in the UK’s most downloaded list include social media giant Threads, a competitor to Meta’s X, and the second-hand marketplace app, Vinted. The application for AI chatbot ChatGPT has secured a spot ahead of other giants such as TikTok, the Tesco app, WhatsApp, Google, and Microsoft Authenticator, illustrating a varied interest among UK app users.
The prevalence of these apps reveals a broader trend in user preferences, with a distinct inclination towards platforms that offer shopping, social interaction, and technological assistance. This shift not only highlights changing consumer behaviour but also points to evolving technological landscapes that cater to a variety of user needs.
The 2024 UK app download trends underscore a dominant shift towards e-commerce and interactive technologies.
