AI Assistants Head into 2026 on a High Note: Comscore Reports Triple-Digit Growth on Mobile

On January 29, 2026, Comscore released a report highlighting the sustained growth of AI assistant platforms, particularly in mobile usage, indicating that these technologies are progressively becoming everyday utilities for users. The report reveals that total mobile visitation to leading AI destinations surged to 54.3 million in December 2025, marking a remarkable 107% increase year-over-year (YoY) from December 2024. In tandem, desktop visitation rose to 83.0 million unique visitors, reflecting an 18% YoY growth, with OpenAI's ChatGPT leading the desktop segment.

Among the mobile AI assistant rankings, OpenAI's ChatGPT attracted 34.5 million users, observing an 84% increase YoY. However, the standout performer was Microsoft Copilot, which experienced a staggering 246% growth, reaching 10.6 million users, followed by Google’s Gemini, which saw a 137% increase to 12.8 million users. Perplexity and Meta also made significant gains, highlighting the growing competitive landscape.

On desktop platforms, ChatGPT maintained its dominance with 56.4 million visitors, although Microsoft Copilot's 28% decline suggests shifting user preferences. Google’s Gemini, however, experienced phenomenal growth with a staggering 648% increase in unique visitors.

Smriti Sharma, Comscore’s EVP Analytics & Managing Director of CustomIQ, emphasized the rapid integration of AI experiences into mobile apps and everyday workflows as a key driver of user growth. The data underscores a growing preference for mobile access to AI assistants, while also showcasing how desktop engagement continues to show strength but remains more concentrated.

As we move into 2026, these insights from Comscore suggest that AI assistants will become pivotal in how consumers interact with technology, offering brands critical insights into evolving consumer behavior. For further details on these trends, Comscore’s AI Intelligence Report is available for download.

Heading into 2026, the market for AI assistants is exhibiting remarkable resilience and growth, with Comscore reporting an astounding 107% year-over-year increase in mobile visitation to these platforms, reaching 54.3 million unique mobile visitors in December 2025. This signals a significant shift in how consumers are engaging with AI technology, with mobile devices becoming the primary method of access. As a financial analyst, several implications can be drawn from these trends that investors and companies in the tech sector should consider.

First, OpenAI's ChatGPT continues to dominate both mobile and desktop platforms, with respective increases of 84% and 83% in unique visitors. This consistent growth solidifies OpenAI's position as a market leader, indicating strong brand loyalty and advanced technology. For investors, this should signal confidence in OpenAI’s potential for continued expansion and innovation, making it a favorable stock candidate for both growth and stability.

Conversely, Microsoft Copilot's desktop visitation has seen a significant decline of 28%. This drop suggests that Microsoft's strategy may need reevaluation, especially as competitors like Google Gemini and Perplexity are seeing explosive growth—137% and 265% year-over-year, respectively. Companies should examine whether expanding partnerships or pivoting their product offerings could enhance engagement.

Furthermore, the notable growth among emerging AI platforms suggests a fragmented market with potential for acquisitions or partnerships. Brands looking to enhance their capabilities may consider integrating features from rapidly growing assistants into their services.

Finally, the transition towards mobile suggests that companies investing in mobile-first strategies will reap the most rewards. Brands need to adapt their marketing and user acquisition strategies to align with evolving consumer behaviors. As AI assistants become more embedded in daily workflows, their role as essential tools is set to grow, making them a key area for investment and innovation through 2026 and beyond.