Usage of mobile apps in Australia Q3 2020, by category

A survey revealed that social networking apps were the most popular type of mobile apps among Australian adult internet users in the third quarter of 2020, with around 88 percent of respondents. Instant messaging apps and entertainment media apps followed in second and third place. Meanwhile, in the wake of the COVID-19 epidemic, health and fitness apps also seemed to enjoy newfound popularity, reportedly used by almost one-third of respondents.

The era of social media

The popularity of social media apps among Australian internet users is unsurprising, given that the majority of Australians have been active on social media for the past few years. Not only among adults, but social media apps also seem to be highly favored by all generations across Australia. Powerhouses of the industry, such as Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and the rapidly rising newcomer Tiktok seemed to thrive amid the COVID-19 outbreak. The pandemic, which subsequently led to restrictions and lockdowns, has encouraged internet users to spend more time on social media, especially during the first lockdown in Australia starting March 2020.

The boom of digital health and fitness during COVID-19

The COVID-19 epidemic has sparked a keen interest in the health and wellness industry, which seems to have grown beyond the physical bounds of gym classes and fitness studios. Telehealth consulting services have become one of the more popular online activities among Australian internet users during the outbreak. Meanwhile, the digital fitness and wellness apps segment has also prospered during the crisis and will likely continue to thrive, with its revenue expected to follow an uptrend for the next few years.