AI applications bring profit quickly, but have difficulties in retaining users

The explosion of applications based on artificial intelligence (AI) has created high expectations in the market, but recent data suggests a more complex reality.

According to the RevenueCat 2026 report, AI applications have a churn rate 30% higher compared to non-AI ones, and after 12 months, only 21.1% of users remain subscribed to AI applications, compared to 30.7% for non-AI ones. Although AI applications have a better conversion rate from trial to paid and generate higher revenue per download, the major challenge remains user retention. Users have high expectations and, in the context of fierce competition, small deficiencies can lead to their loss. Thus, the long-term success of AI applications depends on the ability to provide consistent value and adapt to user needs, not just on the integration of AI technology.