App Store Connect metric
First-time downloads
How Apple counts first-time downloads, how they differ from redownloads and installs, and when to use each.
Definition
The number of first-time downloads on devices with iOS, macOS, tvOS or visionOS. Total Downloads is first-time downloads plus redownloads.
Where to find it
App Store Connect › Analytics › Acquisition
The common mistake
A first-time download isn't the same as a new active user. Someone can download and never open the app, and one person with two devices can appear more than once.
What to use it for
Tracking new acquisition. Follow first-time downloads into your product analytics to see how many reach activation.