‘AI downloads in India up 69% in Jan-March’

New Delhi: India’s cellular app market crossed a significant monetisation milestone within the first quarter of 2026, with whole income surpassing $300 million (round Rs 2,500 crore), marking a 33% year-on-year improve, in line with a Sensor Tower report. In Q1 2025, whole income was roughly $225 million.The market recorded 6.2 billion downloads in the course of the quarter, underlining India’s continued scale. Nevertheless, the report factors to a transparent shift from quantity to monetisation, with non-gaming apps driving development. These apps accounted for 72% of whole downloads and generated over $200 million in in-app buy (IAP) income, rising 44% year-on-year. Non-gaming IAP income in Q1 2025 stood round $140 million.Gaming, whereas secure, confirmed slower momentum. Downloads remained above 1.7 billion, whereas income grew 15% year-on-year-still increased than world common development of 0.4%.Generative AI and quick drama apps emerged as key demand drivers. AI-led apps noticed a 69% year-on-year rise in downloads, whereas quick drama platforms surged 403%. ChatGPT crossed 300 million cumulative downloads in India and ranked among the many high three apps by income.