Key Stat | Info Stat |
---|---|
Type of Software | Video editing software |
Developer | Apple Inc. |
Launched Date | October 5, 1999 |
Available Platforms | mac OS |
Number of Users | 1.460 billion Users |
Website | support.apple.com/imovie |
While iMovie doesn’t directly make money because it is free video editing software included with Apple devices such as Macs, iPhones, and iPads, it does contribute to Apple’s overall ecosystem and profitability through various indirect channels.
Customer Loyalty & Ecosystem Lock-in: iMovie enhances the attractiveness of Apple devices, increasing customer loyalty and encouraging users to stick with Apple products, leading to repetitive hardware and software purchases.
Increased Hardware Sales: By providing a powerful and user-friendly video editing tool for free, Apple incentivizes people to purchase their devices, particularly those interested in content creation, which can boost sales of Macs, iPhones, and iPads.
Promoting Other Apple Services: iMovie seamlessly integrates with other Apple services like iCloud and the App Store, promoting these paid services and generating additional revenue for Apple.
Brand Building & Reputation: Offering high-quality, free video editing software like iMovie enhances Apple’s brand image as an innovator and a company focused on user experience, potentially attracting more customers and improving its overall market position.
Indirect Monetization: While iMovie itself is free, there are indirect ways it can lead to revenue generation, such as through in-app purchases, subscriptions to other Apple services like Final Cut Pro, and the thriving third-party ecosystem of accessories, tutorials, and plugins that indirectly benefit Apple through app store commissions and increased brand awareness.
Source: Apple
Since the launch of iOS 7 on June 10, 2013, Apple has been providing iMovie for free with new device activations and receiving updates through the App Store.
In 2013, the number of iMovie users was 442 million; as of Q3 2024, it exceeded 1 billion.
Year | Estimated Number of iMovie Users |
2024 | 1.460 billion Users |
2023 | 1.334 billion Users |
2022 | 1.3 billion Users |
2021 | 1.2 billion Users |
2020 | 1.1 billion Users |
2019 | 1.05 billion Users |
2018 | 980 million Users |
2017 | 890 million Users |
2016 | 775 million Users |
2015 | 650 million Users |
2014 | 525 million Users |
2013 | 442 million Users |
Source: Statista
iMovie usage is widespread globally, with 25% of users in the United States, 15% in China, and 30% in other countries. The high usage in the United States and China can be attributed to the countries’ large populations and high adoption rates of Apple devices. The remaining 30% represents a diverse range of countries where iMovie is utilized, indicating its global appeal.
Country | Percentage |
---|---|
United States | 25% |
China | 15% |
Japan | 8% |
United Kingdom | 6% |
Germany | 5% |
Canada | 4% |
Australia | 3% |
France | 2% |
South Korea | 2% |
Other | 30% |
Additionally, developed countries with a strong presence of Apple products, such as Japan (8%), the United Kingdom (6%), Germany (5%), Canada (4%), and Australia (3%), also significantly contribute to the user base. France and South Korea each account for 2% of iMovie users.
Thanks a lot for reading this,
David Ch
Head of the Editing Team at SendShort