When did Grok become the most downloaded app on Google Play Store?
Grok, the AI chatbot from xAI, has skyrocketed to the top of the Google Play Store’s “Top Free” apps chart, surpassing giants like ChatGPT and TikTok. On March 27, 2025, Elon Musk, the mastermind behind xAI, announced this achievement on X, sharing a screenshot of Grok’s listing with the caption, “Cool, @Grok is #1 on Android!” This milestone highlights Grok’s rapid rise and its growing influence among Android users globally.
When did Grok start rolling out?
Unlike traditional app launches, this journey to prominence took an unconventional route. Following the release of its latest update, Grok 3, the app began rolling out to compatible Android devices via the internet starting March 25, 2025. The new AI app automatically downloaded itself onto users’ phones without requiring manual action in some instances. While xAI has not fully detailed this deployment method, it aligns with the company’s mission to seamlessly integrate AI into everyday life, making Grok instantly available to millions.
On the Google Play Store, Grok now reigns supreme with an impressive 4.8 rating, outranking ChatGPT (4.7 rating) in second place and TikTok (4.2 rating) in third. This meteoric climb has sparked widespread curiosity about what’s driving such success.
Can Groke create Ghibli-Inspired Art?
One of the most captivating features is its ability to generate Ghibli-style art, drawing inspiration from the enchanting visuals of Studio Ghibli films. Users can create AI-generated portraits and artwork from text prompts or photos, a feature that echoes ChatGPT’s similar offering. However, Grok sets itself apart by providing this tool to all users for free, with no daily limits—unlike ChatGPT, which caps free-tier users at three image generations per day.
This unrestricted access, paired with the Grok 3 update’s faster response times and sharper image quality, has likely played a major role in its surge to the top. Fans have lauded the app’s ease of use and creative potential, with the Ghibli art feature emerging as a standout draw.
How did people react to the rollout?
The automatic appearance on phones triggered a wave of reactions online. For many, the auto-download was a delightful surprise. “I woke up to Grok on my device, and I’m hooked—the Ghibli art is incredible,” one X user raved. Others, however, were less thrilled, voicing concerns about the app’s uninvited arrival. “I didn’t ask for this to install. What’s the deal?” another user posted, highlighting unease over privacy and autonomy.
Tech enthusiasts have embraced the innovation, with one commenter on Musk’s X post calling it “a bold leap in AI deployment.” Yet, the move has also ignited debates about ethics, with some questioning whether auto-installation crosses a line. Regardless, the buzz has only amplified what Elon Musk calls the smartest AI’s visibility.
What does the rise of Grok mean?
This dominance on the Play Store signals a shift in the AI app landscape. Outpacing established players like TikTok and ChatGPT, it reflects a rising demand for accessible, cutting-edge AI tools. The app’s blend of advanced features, frictionless availability, and Musk’s star power has cemented its status as a breakout hit.
As of March 30, 2025, the X founded AI continues to lead the charts, with its user base growing steadily. While its unconventional rollout has sparked some skepticism, its popularity remains undeniable. All we know is that this is a glimpse into the future of AI, brought to life by xAI’s ambitious vision.
