An analysis conducted by TRG Datacenters showed that Instagram was the most deleted app in 2023.
Why was Instagram the most deleted app in 2023?
This revelation comes from a detailed report focusing on the trends surrounding social media applications throughout the year.
TRG Datacenters, known for its meticulous research in digital trends and data analysis, utilised a unique metric to gauge the frequency of app deletions: the number of people searching “how to delete (my) account” on Google.
This methodology offers an insightful glimpse into user intentions and dissatisfaction levels with various platforms.
Instagram, a platform once celebrated for its vibrant community and engaging content, topped the charts with an astounding average of 1.02 million searches per month by users looking to delete their accounts.
This figure translates to approximately 12,500 out of every 100,000 people worldwide, signalling a significantly negative shift in user sentiment towards the Meta-owned app.
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Here’s a look at how the Top 9 social media platforms ranked in the most deleted apps in 2023.
App | (Avg searches pm) | Volume per 100,000 people |
---|---|---|
1,020,000 | 12,678 | |
Snapchat | 128,500 | 1,597 |
123,000 | 1,529 | |
Telegram | 71,700 | 891 |
49,000 | 609 | |
TikTok | 24,900 | 309 |
YouTube | 12,500 | 155 |
4,950 | 62 | |
2,090 | 26 |
The report by TRG Datacenters sheds light on a broader trend of digital decluttering and growing concerns over privacy, mental health, and the overall impact of social media on daily life.
While specific reasons behind the mass exodus from Instagram were not detailed in the study, analysts point to potential factors such as platform fatigue, dissatisfaction with algorithm changes, concerns over data privacy, and a desire for a more authentic online experience.
Instagram’s position at the top of this list is indicative of a larger conversation about the sustainability of engagement-driven platforms and the evolving preferences of digital consumers.
As users become more conscientious about their digital footprints and the quality of their online interactions, social media companies may face increased pressure to adapt and address the concerns that lead to such drastic measures as account deletion.