ChatGPT uninstallation skyrockets threefold, OpenAI Pentagon partnership raises concerns over security monitoring investments

OpenAI and the U.S. Department of Defense (Pentagon) reach an AI cooperation agreement, prompting quick user reactions. Data shows a significant surge in uninstallations of ChatGPT mobile apps in the U.S., increasing by 295% in one day; meanwhile, downloads of competitor Claude, which has cut ties with the Pentagon, have grown notably, highlighting public concerns over government surveillance.

OpenAI enters the defense sector, Pentagon partnership becomes a focal point

Recently, OpenAI announced a partnership with the U.S. Department of Defense, allowing the Pentagon to use its AI systems for classified purposes under legal compliance. This move comes amid the Trump administration’s demand for federal agencies to stop using competitor Anthropic’s products, which refused to relax restrictions on military and surveillance applications, leading to a breakdown in negotiations.

According to the agreement, OpenAI agrees to let the Department of Defense use its AI technology for “any lawful purpose,” emphasizing that technical measures will ensure compliance with the company’s existing safety principles. The agreement also states that its AI systems cannot be used for monitoring U.S. residents or tracking individuals through commercially obtained personal data.

However, after the announcement, some users remain skeptical, expressing concerns that the AI could be used for surveillance or military purposes.

(OpenAI wins Pentagon AI contract! Sam Altman admits “hasty decision,” emphasizes no involvement in mass surveillance or autonomous weapons)

In response: ChatGPT uninstallations triple, Claude downloads soar

Research firm Sensor Tower reports that the ChatGPT mobile app in the U.S. experienced significant fluctuations following the announcement. On February 28, uninstallations spiked by 295% compared to the previous day, far above the average daily fluctuation of about 9% over the past 30 days. Downloads of ChatGPT also declined that day, dropping about 13% from the previous day, with a further 5% decrease the next day.

Meanwhile, one-star reviews for ChatGPT surged by 775% on Saturday, and increased another 100% on Sunday compared to the previous day. During the same period, five-star reviews decreased by 50%.

Appfigures data

On the other hand, competitor Anthropic’s AI product Claude experienced growth after parting ways with the Pentagon. Data shows U.S. downloads increased by 37% on February 27 and 51% on February 28, reaching the top of the U.S. App Store free app charts and ranking highly in several European countries.

It’s clear that some consumers seem to support this stance, reflected in the changes in downloads and reviews.

(Anthropic’s contract with the Pentagon terminated, Claude downloads surge to top of charts)

AI and national security boundaries spark renewed debate

This incident highlights how the entry of AI technology into national security and military sectors can trigger interconnected effects in corporate decisions and market reactions. OpenAI’s decision to proactively replace Anthropic and reach an agreement with the Department of Defense underscores differing strategies between the two companies and reflects the industry’s challenge of balancing commercial opportunities with ethical considerations.

As generative AI technology becomes more widespread, its application in defense and government sectors is increasingly common. However, user sensitivity around privacy and surveillance issues is also rising. Whether ChatGPT can regain user trust or even surpass Claude remains a key focus for observers.

This article, “ChatGPT uninstallations triple, OpenAI Pentagon deal raises security and surveillance concerns,” first appeared on Chain News ABMedia.