What is a software application that a user typically downloads to a mobile device commonly called?

A software application that a user typically downloads to a mobile device is most commonly referred to as a mobile app. Mobile apps are specifically designed to run on mobile platforms, such as smartphones and tablets, and they provide a wide variety of functionalities tailored for users' needs on these devices. This term encompasses applications for social media, gaming, productivity, and many other categories that enhance the user experience on mobile.

In contrast, the term application software is broader and refers to all software that performs specific tasks for users on any computing device, not just mobile devices. Utility programs focus on system maintenance and performance optimization rather than user-facing applications. An operating system is the foundational software that manages hardware and software resources on a device, providing the platform for applications to run but is not specifically designed as an app that users download. Thus, mobile app accurately captures the essence of software designed for direct download and use on mobile devices.