OpenAI's Sora app, known for its AI video generation, has lost its top spot in the iOS App Store to Dave's Hot Chicken after weeks of dominance. The chicken chain's app climbed to the number one position on Friday. This shift highlights the unpredictable nature of app rankings.
OpenAI launched its Sora app on September 30, quickly rising to dominate the iOS App Store charts. The app's popularity stemmed from its user-friendly AI video generation features and an initially relaxed approach to copyright laws, allowing for creative freedom that attracted widespread interest.
For several weeks, Sora held the top ranking, showcasing the growing appeal of artificial intelligence tools in mobile applications. However, on Friday, October 24, 2025, this reign ended abruptly. Dave's Hot Chicken, a fast-food chain specializing in spicy chicken tenders, surged to the top spot with its ordering app.
The unexpected takeover by a food app over an AI powerhouse underscores the dynamic and often whimsical fluctuations in app store popularity, influenced by user trends, promotions, and seasonal demands. No specific reasons for Dave's Hot Chicken's rise were detailed, but it marks a notable moment in app store history where culinary convenience outpaced cutting-edge technology.
This event reflects broader patterns in digital marketplaces, where entertainment and utility apps frequently vie for primacy amid evolving consumer preferences.