Top 11 Most Popular Social Media Apps
In 2024, social media is no longer just a digital pastime—it’s a core business channel, a communication engine, and a powerful driver of brand visibility. Social media apps continue to reshape how people connect, consume information, and engage with brands across industries.
From staying in touch with colleagues to tracking real-time news and discovering new products, social platforms are deeply embedded in everyday life. However, with dozens of platforms competing for attention, identifying which social media apps truly matter in 2024 can be challenging—especially for businesses looking to invest strategically.
To help you cut through the noise, we’ve compiled an overview of the most popular social media apps in 2024, along with key trends shaping how these platforms are used today. Whether you’re refining your marketing strategy or exploring new digital channels, this guide provides a clear snapshot of where engagement is happening right now.
1. What are social media apps?
Social media apps are digital platforms that enable users to create, share, and interact with content in real time. These platforms support a wide range of activities, including posting updates, sharing photos and videos, sending messages, and engaging through comments, reactions, and live interactions.
For businesses, social media apps go beyond communication. They function as marketing channels, customer support tools, sales platforms, and brand-building ecosystems—making them essential to modern digital strategies.
2. Which social media platforms are the most popular in 2024?
Source: Statista
- Facebook continues to lead the global market with over 3 billion monthly active users, reinforcing its position as the most widely used social media app despite increasing competition.
- Video-focused platforms such as YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok remain dominant, highlighting the growing preference for video-first content across demographics.
- Messaging apps like WhatsApp, WeChat, and Telegram maintain strong user bases, reflecting the demand for private, direct, and secure communication.
- Emerging platforms including Douyin and Kuaishou are gaining rapid traction, particularly in Asian markets, signaling regional shifts in user behavior and content consumption.
For businesses, these trends underline the importance of aligning platform choice with audience location, content format, and communication goals.
3. How Social Media Trends Have Evolved Over the Years
Early 2000s: Social Connection Comes First
In the early days of social media, platforms like MySpace, Friendster, and the first version of Facebook focused primarily on personal connections. Users customized profiles, shared text updates, and expanded their social circles. At this stage, social media apps were largely informal and social by nature.
2010s: The Rise of Visual Content
As smartphones became mainstream, social media evolved rapidly. Platforms such as Instagram, Pinterest, and Snapchat shifted the focus toward visual storytelling. This era marked a turning point for businesses, as brands began leveraging high-quality images and videos to reach broader audiences and drive engagement.
2020s: Video and Short-Form Content Dominate
Today, short-form video is the most influential content format. Apps like TikTok, YouTube Shorts, and Instagram Reels have transformed how users discover information, products, and trends—particularly among younger audiences. Speed, authenticity, and creativity now define successful content strategies.
2024 and Beyond: All-in-One Digital Ecosystems
Looking ahead, social media apps are evolving into multifunctional platforms. Ecosystems like WeChat and Instagram now combine social interaction, eCommerce, customer service, and virtual experiences within a single app. This convergence creates new opportunities for businesses to engage customers across the entire digital journey—without leaving the platform.
4. Top 11 Most Popular Social Media Apps
Most Popular Social Media Apps List:
| Ranking | Social Media App | Released Date | Number of Monthly Active Users (in millions) |
| 1 | February 4, 2004 | 3,065 | |
| 2 | Youtube | February 14, 2005 | 2,504 |
| 3 | October 6, 2010 | 2,000 | |
| 4 | January 2009 | 2,000 | |
| 5 | TikTok | September 2017 | 1,582 |
| 6 | January 21, 2011 | 1,343 | |
| 7 | Facebook Messenger | August 9, 2011 | 1,010 |
| 8 | Telegram | August 14, 2013 | 900 |
| 9 | Snapchat | September 2011 | 800 |
| 10 | Douyin | September 2016 | 755 |
| 11 | Kuaishou | March 2011 | 700 |
4.1. Facebook
Facebook, the giant of social media apps, has been a major player in connecting people around the globe since its launch. Launched in 2004 by Mark Zuckerberg and his college buddies, Facebook was initially meant for Harvard students but quickly expanded to the global stage. With its wide reach and numerous features, Facebook remains a cornerstone in the world of social media apps, shaping how we interact online.
Number of Monthly Active Users: 3,065 million
Features
| User Profiles | Customize your personal page with photos, bios, and more. |
| News Feed | Stay updated with posts, videos, and articles from friends and pages you follow. |
| Messenger | You can have a private chat or group chat with your friends. |
| Groups & Pages | Join communities or create pages for interests, hobbies, or business. |
| Events | Organize and RSVP to events, from casual meetups to major happenings. |
| Marketplace | Trade and shop for items in your local community. |
| Stories | Share moments of your day with disappearing photos and videos. |
Read more: 8 Facebook Alternatives in 2024
4.2. YouTube
YouTube, one of the leading names among social media apps, is all about video content. It started as a platform where users could upload and share videos, and it’s grown into a massive hub for everything from music videos and tutorials to vlogs and movie trailers. With its vast library and user-friendly interface, YouTube stands out in the realm of social media apps, offering something for everyone whether you’re looking to learn something new, keep up with the latest trends, or just relax with some entertainment.
Number of Monthly Active Users: 2,504 million
Features
| Video Uploads | Share your own content and reach a global audience. |
| Subscriptions | Follow your favorite channels and get updates on their latest videos. |
| Playlists | Organize videos into custom lists for easy access and viewing. |
| Live Streaming | Broadcast live to engage with viewers in real-time. |
| Recommendations | Discover new content customized to your viewing history. |
| Comments | Connect with viewers and creators via comments. |
| Monetization | Earn from your content through ads and channel memberships. |
4.3. Instagram
Instagram has become the top platform for sharing visual content. Launched primarily as a photo-sharing app, it quickly evolved into a versatile tool for photos, videos, and interactive stories. Whether you’re into posting your daily life, following your favorite influencers, or discovering new trends, Instagram remains a significant player among social media apps. Its clean design and engaging features make it easy to connect with friends and build a community around your interests.
Number of Monthly Active Users: 2,000 million
Features
| Photo & Video Posts | Post high-quality photos and videos for your followers. |
| Stories | Send photos and videos that vanish after 24 hours. |
| Reels | Create and discover short, engaging videos with music. |
| IGTV | Upload and watch longer videos, perfect for tutorials and shows. |
| Direct Messaging | Send private messages and share media with other users. |
| Explore Tab | Explore new content and accounts tailored to your interests. |
| Shopping | Find & buy products directly from posts. |
4.4. WhatsApp
If you are looking for messaging social media apps with a simple and efficient design, WhatsApp is the perfect choice for you. Since its launch, it has become a staple for staying in touch with friends, family, and colleagues. Unlike other social media apps that focus on content sharing and discovery, WhatsApp specializes in providing a seamless and secure messaging experience. With its straightforward design and robust features, it’s a reliable tool for both personal and group conversations.
Number of Monthly Active Users: 2,000 million
Features
| Text Messaging | Have instant text conversations. |
| Voice & Video Calls | Make sharp and clear voice and video calls. |
| Group Chats | Start and oversee group chats with multiple participants. |
| Media Sharing | Quickly and simply send photos, videos, and documents. |
| Status Updates | Share temporary updates that self-destruct in 24 hours. |
| End-to-End Encryption | Keep your conversations confidential and protected. |
| Web & Desktop Access | Use WhatsApp on your computer via web or desktop app. |
Read more: Top Alternatives to WhatsApp
4.5. TikTok
TikTok has captured the attention of millions with its short-form video content. Launched as a platform for creating and sharing quick, engaging videos, TikTok stands out for its unique algorithm that delivers a personalized feed based on your interests. It’s not just about watching videos; it’s about participating in trends, challenges, and creating content. TikTok has become a significant player among social media apps thanks to its unique features.
Number of Monthly Active Users: 1,582 million
Features
| Short-Form Videos | Make and view short videos of up to 60 seconds. |
| For You Page (FYP) | Find content that aligns with your preferences. |
| Trends & Challenges | Be part of popular video trends and challenges. |
| Effects & Filters | Apply different effects and filters to edit your videos. |
| Duets & Stitches | Collaborate with other users by creating video responses. |
| Music Integration | Add catchy tunes to your videos. |
| Live Streaming | Share live updates with your network. |
4.6. WeChat
WeChat, a Chinese-based app developed by Tencent, is a standout in the world of social media apps. Launched in 2011, it began as a simple messaging tool but quickly expanded into a comprehensive platform that integrates various functions. WeChat combines social networking, digital payments, and other daily utilities into one app, making it an essential part of daily life for millions, especially in China.
Number of Monthly Active Users: 1,343 million
Features
| Text & Voice Messaging | Send instant text messages or voice recordings. |
| Video Calls | Make high-quality video calls with contacts. |
| Moments | Post photos and updates to your connections. |
| Mini Programs | Use integrated apps for shopping, services, and more. |
| WeChat Pay | Conduct transactions and pay bills directly within the app. |
| Official Accounts | Follow brands and services for updates and promotions. |
| Social Networking | Link up with friends and join interest-based groups. |
Read more: WECHAT: The Super Apps Exceed 1 Billion Daily Active Users
4.7. Facebook Messenger
Facebook Messenger is designed to enhance communication beyond Facebook’s main platform. Launched as a standalone messaging app, Messenger focuses on providing a seamless experience for chatting with friends, family, and groups. It integrates various features that make messaging simple and engaging, whether you’re coordinating plans, sharing media, or making video calls. Among messaging social media apps, Messenger stands out for its ease of use and integration with Facebook’s ecosystem, making it a go-to choice for many users.
Number of Monthly Active Users: 1,010 million
Features
| Text Messaging | Have instant text conversations. |
| Voice & Video Calls | Make sharp and clear voice and video calls. |
| Group Chats | Create and manage group conversations. |
| Media Sharing | Share photos, videos, and files easily. |
| Emojis & Stickers | Add a variety of emojis and stickers to enhance your messages. |
| Messenger Rooms | Host virtual gatherings with up to 50 participants. |
| Integration with Facebook | Seamlessly connect and interact with Facebook contacts. |
4.8. Telegram
Telegram offers a robust alternative to traditional messaging platforms. Launched in 2013 by Pavel Durov, Telegram emphasizes security and speed while providing a range of features that cater to both personal and group communication. Unlike many other social media apps, Telegram is known for its focus on privacy and its ability to handle large group chats and media sharing.
Number of Monthly Active Users: 900 million
Features
| Text Messaging | Have instant text conversations with strong encryption. |
| Voice & Video Calls | Make secure voice and video calls with high quality. |
| Group Chats | Create and manage large group chats with up to 200,000 members. |
| Channels | Follow public channels for updates and content. |
| Media Sharing | Send photos, videos, and files up to 2 GB. |
| Bots | Use bots for various tasks like reminders and information retrieval. |
| Secret Chats | Engage in private conversations with end-to-end encryption. |
4.9. Snapchat
Snapchat focuses on ephemeral content and interactive features. Since its launch in 2011, Snapchat has captivated users with its innovative approach to sharing moments that disappear after a short time. The app’s emphasis on creativity and immediacy has set it apart from other social media apps, making it a popular choice for users who enjoy dynamic and interactive communication. With its suite of features designed for fun and engaging exchanges, Snapchat continues to be a major player in the messaging social media apps landscape.
Number of Monthly Active Users: 800 million
Features
| Snaps | Share temporary updates that self-destruct in 24 hours. |
| Stories | Post content that remains visible for 24 hours. |
| Filters & Lenses | Use augmented reality filters and lenses to enhance photos and videos. |
| Discover | Explore content from popular creators and media companies. |
| Chat | Send text messages and multimedia in individual or group chats. |
| Memories | Save and view your Snaps and Stories for later. |
| Spotlight | Discover trending user-generated content. |
Read more: 12 Messaging Apps Like Snapchat You Need to Try
4.10. Douyin
Douyin is known for its dynamic short-form video content. Launched in 2016 by ByteDance, Douyin is the Chinese counterpart of TikTok and offers a similar experience tailored for the Chinese market. It combines entertainment with social interaction, creating and sharing short videos, and discovering content through its powerful recommendation algorithm. Among social media apps, Douyin stands out for its focus on local trends and user engagement.
Number of Monthly Active Users: 755 million
Features
| Short-Form Videos | Make and view videos up to 60 seconds in length. |
| Music Integration | Add popular music tracks to enhance your videos. |
| Trends & Challenges | Join in on trending content and challenges. |
| Effects & Filters | Apply different effects and filters to personalize your content. |
| Discover Page | Explore the latest content and top creators. |
| Live Streaming | Broadcast live to interact with your audience instantly. |
| Shopping | Explore and purchase products right in the app. |
4.11. Kuaishou
Kuaishou provides a compelling alternative to platforms like TikTok and Douyin. Launched in 2011, Kuaishou is widely used in China and has been expanding its reach globally. It focuses on short-form video content, enabling users to create and share videos with ease. Kuaishou stands out among social media apps for its emphasis on authentic content and its support for diverse user-generated material.
Number of Monthly Active Users: 700 million
Features
| Short-Form Videos | Make and view short videos of up to 60 seconds. |
| Music & Effects | Add popular music tracks and effects to enhance your videos. |
| Live Streaming | Broadcast live to interact with your audience instantly. |
| Discovery Feed | Explore trending content and discover new creators. |
| Duet & Collaboration | Create video responses to collaborate with others. |
| E-Commerce | Shop for products directly through the app. |
| User Interaction | Interact with content by liking, commenting, and sharing. |
5. Conclusion
As we wrap up our look at these 11 social media apps in 2024, it’s clear that the key to success in this space lies in understanding what users truly want. Each platform offers distinct features and strengths that address various needs and preferences. If you’re thinking about developing your own social media app, taking a close look at what works for these existing apps can offer valuable insights. Pay attention to how they engage users, the types of content they support, and the features they offer.
Creating a standout social media app involves more than just mimicking these features—it’s about finding your own niche and delivering something that resonates with your target audience. Focus on user experience, innovation, and clear value propositions to differentiate your app from others. By understanding the current landscape and keeping an eye on what makes other social media apps successful, you can position your app for growth and relevance in this competitive market.
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6. FAQs
Stay updated on trends such as short-form video content, interactive features like live streaming, and integration with e-commerce. Personalization and privacy concerns are also increasingly important to users.
Focus on user engagement tools, such as interactive content formats and messaging capabilities. Integration with popular media, personalization options, and seamless user experience are also crucial.
Challenges include ensuring privacy and security, managing scalability, and differentiating your app from competitors. It’s also crucial to continually update the app based on user feedback and emerging trends.
Consider various revenue streams like in-app advertising, premium features, e-commerce integrations, and subscription models. Choosing the right monetization strategy depends on your app’s features and target market.
To begin developing your social media app with AgileTech, simply reach out to us for a consultation. We’ll discuss your vision, requirements, and how we can turn your idea into reality.