Uninstalls of the ChatGPT mobile app in the United States have surged by around 295 per cent after OpenAI confirmed a partnership with the US Department of Defense, prompting backlash from some users.
The increase followed public reaction to news that OpenAI’s artificial intelligence technology would be used in certain defence-related applications. Although the company has previously stated that its systems are not intended for weapons development, the association with the Pentagon led to online criticism and calls for users to delete the app.
App data tracking indicates that daily uninstall rates rose sharply in the days after the announcement. Social media platforms saw renewed debate over the ethical implications of AI being deployed in military and government contexts.
At the same time, rival AI chatbot platforms recorded increased interest, suggesting that some users may be exploring alternatives.
OpenAI has not suggested that the spike in removals has significantly affected its broader user base. ChatGPT remains one of the most widely used AI applications globally.
The episode underscores the growing scrutiny technology firms face when entering defence partnerships, particularly as artificial intelligence becomes more deeply integrated into everyday consumer tools.
Author: Kieran Seymour