Saad Ullah
India's digital landscape is shifting fast, and this week's Google Play Store rankings offer a revealing look at what's capturing user attention. The top five apps paint an interesting picture: homegrown messengers competing with global AI giants, while commerce and education platforms hold their ground. It's a snapshot of a market that's becoming more sophisticated by the day, blending cutting-edge technology with practical, everyday needs.
India's Top 5 Apps This Week
According to Indian Tech & Infra trader, a prominent voice tracking India's tech scene, the most downloaded apps are Arattai Messenger, ChatGPT, Perplexity, Kuku TV, and Meesho.
This mix reveals how Indian users are balancing privacy concerns, AI curiosity, and the search for value-driven platforms.
Why Arattai Messenger Leads
Arattai, built by Zoho, has become a serious challenger to WhatsApp and Telegram. Its appeal lies in being both local and privacy-focused - two qualities that resonate strongly as data security becomes a bigger concern. Indian users are clearly willing to try alternatives when they align with their values and offer features designed for regional communication styles.
AI Applications Gain Momentum
The presence of both ChatGPT and Perplexity in the top five signals something important: AI has moved beyond hype in India. ChatGPT is being used across education, work, and creative projects, while Perplexity is drawing users who want smarter, conversational search experiences instead of traditional link lists. These aren't just downloads out of curiosity - they're tools people are actually using.
Entertainment and Commerce Still Strong
While AI grabs attention, apps like Kuku TV and Meesho prove that bread-and-butter platforms still matter. Kuku TV taps into India's mobile-first approach to children's education, offering families affordable learning content on smartphones. Meesho continues its strong run by empowering small sellers in smaller cities, making e-commerce accessible to entrepreneurs who might otherwise struggle to get online. Both apps serve real, immediate needs - and that's why they're thriving.
What This Means for India's Digital Economy
These rankings reveal three key trends. First, local apps can win when they solve real problems and respect user concerns around privacy and culture. Second, AI is no longer a novelty - it's becoming a daily utility for millions of Indians. Third, practicality still rules: whether it's shopping, learning, or chatting, people download what works.
Saad Ullah
