Instagram is the Most-Used Social App Among U.S. Teens, But TikTok Is Still Their Favorite

According to a report from Business Insider, Instagram is the most popular app among American teenagers.

A recent survey by investment bank Piper Sandler revealed that 87% of teenagers use Instagram at least once a month. The survey involved 13,500 teens in the United States. Not only does this figure represent an increase from 80% last year, but it also marks the highest rate since the survey began in 2016.

The second most popular app is TikTok, with 79% of respondents noting their monthly usage. Snapchat was in third place with a monthly usage rate of 71%. Pinterest (41%), Twitter (30%), and Facebook (30%) ranked at the bottom based on monthly usage statistics.

The survey explained Instagram’s popularity with Meta’s efforts to attract younger users. Instagram has added features like notes (which refresh after 24 hours), story comments, close friends options, and AI bots to encourage more interaction through direct messages.

However, despite Instagram’s widespread use, TikTok has been voted the most-liked app. According to the survey, 39% of teens chose TikTok as their favorite, compared to 32% for Instagram and 18% for Snapchat.

Instagram has also ramped up its safety measures, implementing content-monitored youth accounts to protect underage users.