For years, the number of new apps launched on tech giant Apple’s (AAPL) App Store had been steadily declining, dropping nearly 48% between 2016 and 2024, according to Sensor Tower. However, that trend has now reversed in a big way. In 2025, the number of new app launches jumped by 30% to almost 600,000. Furthermore, the first quarter of 2026 saw new app releases surge by 84% year-over-year to about 235,800. A major reason for this surge appears to be the rise of AI-powered coding tools, which allow users to create apps simply by describing what they want in plain language.
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As a result, even people without programming experience can now build functional apps, while experienced developers can produce code much faster than before. Most of the new apps are in categories like productivity, as well as photo, video, and weather tools. Interestingly, though, Apple has started to push back against certain apps, particularly those that allow users to build other apps directly on iPhones.
Indeed, the company has blocked updates from some developers and even removed at least one such app. Nevertheless, the number of AI-built apps continues to rise quickly, and many users and developers say that the flood of new apps is making it harder to find high-quality ones. In addition, some developers have complained about slower review times, although Apple says most apps are still reviewed within 48 hours and that it is using AI to help manage the growing volume.
Is Apple a Buy or Sell Right Now?
Turning to Wall Street, analysts have a Moderate Buy consensus rating on AAPL stock based on 14 Buys, eight Holds, and one Sell assigned in the past three months, as indicated by the graphic below. Furthermore, the average AAPL price target of $304.40 per share implies 17.5% upside potential.
