The popular anonymous social app called NGL is currently on the rise and has reached 15 million global installs, according to data from Sensor Tower. NGL is one of a handful of fast-growing anonymous apps, since launching in December 2021.
Most of the current NGL growth is driven by Android users, of which Indonesia is the largest market. According to Sensor Tower data quoted from TechCrunch (12/7), one-fifth of NGL users worldwide come from Indonesia or around 3.1 million installations. 83% of them download via Google Play Store or Android.
Regardless, apps that promise “anonymous” social interactions can always be suspect regarding the use of bots. Like its competitors, NGL has also been accused of using bots to drive user engagement.
Based on TechChrunch's testing, NGL appears to send anonymous messages after users share the link. TechCrunch shared the NGL link to Instagram Story, as the app was used by many and soon the link was removed. But a few hours later, an anonymous message came to their NGL account, even though no one had seen the link.
It seems pretty clear from this test that NGL is trying to mislead users. In line with that, App Store reviews also show low ratings filled with complaints regarding the use of bots.
In this case, it is the App Store or Google Play Store, as well as the app developers themselves who benefit. NGL offers a paid service of around USD 9.99 per week so users can see unlimited clues about who sent anonymous questions.
But again the reviews speak. According to users who have subscribed, the instructions are useless, as they only offer details such as location and device model.
To date, Sensor Tower says NGL users have spent around $2.4 million on the app. The $9.99 unlimited hint subscription was the most in-app purchases, followed by the $1.99 per week option, according to the company.
