Apps are back, or maybe they never left in the first place. While some people debate whether people will shift away from apps as AI agents make accessing online services more efficient, we've found the App Store to be alive and well, with a recent explosion of fun, creative and innovative tools, experiences, and other indie efforts.
60% Rise in New App Launches in 2026
UKPulse News DeskDespite predictions that AI agents could make traditional apps obsolete, developers are shipping new software faster than ever. New app launches have soared in 2026, with worldwide new app releases up 60% year-over-year as of the first quarter across both the Apple App Store and Google Play.
- New app launches have soared in 2026, with worldwide new app releases up 60% year-over-year as of the first quarter across both the Apple App Store and Google Play.
- The rise of AI coding has enabled people to ship software more quickly, and allowed novices to participate in the app ecosystem.
- Many new apps use AI under the hood to perform their magic, but are not promoted as being 'AI-powered'.
Why this matters: The rise of new app launches could indicate a shift in the way people interact with technology, and may have implications for the future of the app ecosystem.
What this means for you: If you're a developer or entrepreneur, the rise of new app launches may provide opportunities for growth and innovation.