Apple recognises 17 of the best apps for 2025
Apple has announced the winners of this year’s App Store Awards, announcing 17 apps and games it praises for “technical ingenuity and lasting cultural impact.” The winning apps and games were hand-selected by App Store editors from a 45 app shortlist, the company said.
The best in creativity
“Every year, we’re inspired by the ways developers turn their best ideas into innovative experiences that enrich people’s lives,” said Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO. “This year’s winners represent the creativity and excellence that define the App Store, and they demonstrate the meaningful impact that world-class apps and games have on people everywhere.”
The collection includes lots of apps that use AI in useful ways, such as visual planner, Tiimo and Detail’s AI editing tools, designed to democratize video production on iPad. Apps for Vision Pro, Apple Watch, and more. HBO even wins praise for including ASL support within the app.
Turning to games, awards are provided to visually stunning sci-fi game, Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition, and a range of other fun titles.
In addition to recognizing apps and games across Apple devices, App Store editors selected six Cultural Impact winners for their ability to drive meaningful change, recognized for their positive impact, providing users with helpful tools, promoting understanding, and shaping a more inclusive world.
Who won the recognition?
Here’s the complete list of winning titles:
Apps
- iPhone App of the Year, Tiimo, from tiimo.
- iPad App of the Year, Detail, from Detail Technologies B.V.
- Mac App of the Year, Essayist, from Essayist Software Inc.
- Apple Vision Pro App of the Year, Explore POV, from James Hustler.
- Apple Watch App of the Year, Strava, from Strava, Inc.
- Apple TV App of the Year, HBO Max, from WarnerMedia Global Digital Services, LLC.
Games
- iPhone Game of the Year, Pokémon TCG Pocket, from The Pokemon Company.
- iPad Game of the Year, DREDGE, from Black Salt Games.
- Mac Game of the Year, Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition, from CD PROJEKT S.A.
- Apple Vision Pro Game of the Year, Porta Nubi, from Michael Temper.
- Apple Arcade Game of the Year, WHAT THE CLASH?, from Triband ApS.
Cultural Impact Winners
Art of Fauna from Klemens Strasser
Art of Fauna turns wildlife illustration from around the world into relaxing puzzles and sets a new standard for accessible game design.
Chants of Sennaar from Playdigious
Chants of Sennaar celebrates the power of language through a thought-provoking adventure.
despelote from Panic, Inc.
despelote crafts an intimate slice-of-life story that shares a glimpse into a nation navigating tumult and uniting through their love for soccer.
Be My Eyes from Be My Eyes
Be My Eyes combines the power of AI and millions of global volunteers to help people who are blind or have low vision with everyday activities.
Focus Friend by Hank Green from B-Tech Consulting Group LLC
Focus Friend by Hank Green acts as a powerful ally against digital distractions by gamifying focus sessions with satisfying prizes.
StoryGraph from The StoryGraph
StoryGraph creates an inclusive space for the book community rooted in authenticity through discovery elements that help elevate diverse authors.
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