ChatGPT Growth Slows as Google Gemini Gains Momentum in AI Race

New data shows ChatGPT’s rapid expansion is cooling. Google’s Gemini app is now growing faster in key metrics. This shift signals a tightening competition in the consumer AI space.

According to market intelligence firm Sensor Tower, Gemini is outpacing ChatGPT in download growth, user adoption, and engagement. This comes as OpenAI‘s CEO issued an internal memo urging staff to improve products.

Sensor Tower Data Reveals a Shift in User Adoption

ChatGPT remains the market leader today. It holds about 50% of global mobile downloads. It also commands 55% of global monthly active users.

However, its growth rate is decelerating. From August to November 2025, its monthly active users grew only 6%. The figure reached roughly 810 million, suggesting possible market saturation.

In the same period, Gemini’s monthly active users jumped 30%. The release of its “Nano Banana” image model drove this surge. The data indicates Google is successfully closing the gap.

Broader Market Impact and Future Challenges

The competitive field is expanding beyond the two giants. Rivals like Perplexity and Claude saw triple-digit growth in 2025. Perplexity’s user base grew 370% year-over-year.

This increased competition is impacting ChatGPT’s market share. Its share of global monthly active users dropped three percentage points recently. Meanwhile, Gemini’s share grew by three points over seven months.

User engagement also favors Gemini. Time spent in its app more than doubled to 11 minutes daily. ChatGPT’s daily time spent grew just 6% and even declined recently.

While still the dominant force, ChatGPT’s slowing growth marks a new phase. The AI chatbot race is heating up, with Google’s Gemini demonstrating it can compete at scale.

Info at your fingertips

Is ChatGPT still the most popular AI chatbot?

Yes, for now. ChatGPT remains the leader with about 55% of global monthly active users. However, new data shows its growth is slowing significantly compared to rivals.

What is helping Google Gemini catch up?

The launch of its “Nano Banana” image generation model was a major factor. It drove a 30% jump in monthly active users in late 2025. Strong integration into the Android OS also provides a key advantage.

Which AI chatbot is growing the fastest?

In terms of year-over-year user growth, Perplexity AI led with 370% growth in 2025. Google Gemini followed with 190% download growth, significantly outpacing ChatGPT’s 85%.

How does Android help Google Gemini?

Twice as many U.S. Android users access Gemini through the OS instead of the standalone app. This deep integration offers a seamless experience on the world’s dominant mobile platform.

Why did OpenAI issue a “code red” memo?

CEO Sam Altman’s memo urged staff to focus on product improvements. It highlighted areas like personalization and reliability, indicating internal concern over maintaining their market lead.