Claude Surpasses ChatGPT in App Store Rankings Amid Pentagon Controversy

Anthropic’s Claude chatbot is experiencing a surge in popularity, recently reaching the number one spot on both the Google Play Store and the App Store, surpassing OpenAI’s ChatGPT. This shift in user preference comes as OpenAI navigates controversy surrounding its partnership with the U.S. Department of Defense.

User Growth and App Store Dominance

Anthropic reports that over one million people are signing up for Claude AI accounts daily , driving the app to the top of the free app charts in the U.S. And other regions. As of the complete of February 2026, OpenAI reported 900 million active users per week, with over 50 million consumer subscribers.

Pentagon Partnership and Backlash

The rise of Claude coincides with scrutiny of OpenAI’s recent agreement with the U.S. Department of Defense to deploy AI for classified applications. This partnership initially faced resistance from some OpenAI employees who sought stronger safety measures . OpenAI has stated that it has been working to ensure safeguards are in place to prevent misuse, specifically regarding autonomous weapons and mass surveillance.

Anthropic Designated a Supply Chain Risk

In response to the evolving AI landscape, the Trump administration has designated Anthropic as a “supply chain risk,” a move the company plans to challenge in court . Anthropic maintains that it does not play a role in operational decision-making related to mass surveillance or autonomous weapons .

Defense Tech Companies Shift Away from Claude

Following the Pentagon’s designation, several defense technology companies are instructing employees to discontinue use of Claude and transition to alternative AI models . Approximately ten companies within J2 Ventures’ portfolio, which work with the Department of Defense, are actively replacing Claude . Lockheed Martin is similarly expected to remove Anthropic’s technology from its supply chains .

Anthropic’s Revenue Stream

This shift represents a significant challenge for Anthropic, as approximately 80% of its revenue comes from enterprise customers . The company initially entered the DoD’s ecosystem through a partnership with Palantir in late 2024 .