Free Apps Are Getting Worse in 2025: How “Freemium” Turned Into a Bait-and-Switch
A widely shared Android Authority article by Megan Ellis highlights user backlash as major “free” apps like Duolingo and CapCut restrict features and push subscriptions in 2025. Developers are imposing more ads, usage caps, and paywalls, citing higher costs and privacy changes. Apple reports $1.3 trillion in App Store revenue for 2024, but users say free tiers now feel deliberately frustrating unless they pay.
