(CNN) -- About 35 percent of U.S. adults have mobile phones that run software applications, or apps, according to a new survey.

But fewer than one in four adults actually uses those apps. And more than one out of 10 said they're not even sure whether their phone runs apps.

Those are the findings of the latest report from the Pew Internet Project. It says that while more American consumers are comfortable downloading apps and using them on their phones, the trend appears to be in its infancy.

"An apps culture is clearly emerging among some cell phone users, particularly men and young adults," said Kristen Purcell, associate director for research at the Pew Internet Project.

"Still, it is clear that this is the early stage of adoption when many cell owners do not know what their phone can do. The apps market seems somewhat ahead of a majority of adult cell phone users."

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