Apple’s App Store has so many options that it can be easy to get overwhelmed. Not only are there hundreds of great choices, but more are being added every day, which just adds to the challenge. However, the App Store awards can be a big help in finding your next download.
Apple has announced its list of the 45 outstanding finalists for this year’s App Store Awards that recognize “the best apps and games across 12 different categories for creating exceptional experiences that inspire users to accomplish more, reimagine their daily workflows, and push creative boundaries.”
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Apple has yet to announce when the winners for each category will be revealed. For now, all we know is that Apple will announce them in “coming weeks.” Until then, you can check out the nominees below.
Best iPhone apps
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The iPhone app of the year finalists start with Bandlab, an app designed to help musicians record and mix tracks alongside a community of like-minded people. Next is LADDER, which offers easy-to-understand strength training workouts. The final app on the list is Tiimo, an AI planner that makes creating to-do lists much easier.
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When it comes to gaming, the finalists include Capybara GO!, a relaxing idle player that has you take control of nature’s chillest — and cutest — rodent. Next is Pokémon TCG pocket, which lets you collect and play Pokémon cards without needing to battle real-life scalpers. Finally, there’s Thronefall, which offers intense defensive battles while using minimalist controls.
Best iPad apps
(Image credit: Detail Technologies)
The finalists for best iPad apps start with Detail, an AI video editor that looks to help redefine creative workflow. Next is Graintouch, a drawing app that mimics putting ink to paper. Finally, there’s Structured, which helps users to break down their schedule into easy-to-visualise timetables.
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For the best gaming apps, the first finalist is DREDGE, which sees users try to solve a deep mystery while avoiding the monsters hiding in the seas. Next is Infinity Nikki, a relaxing platformer with a host of different mechanics to explore. Finally, there’s Prince of Persia Lost Crown, the latest in the historic series that embraces a Metroidvania style to breathe new life into the series.
Best Mac apps
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The first finalist for best Mac app is Acorn 8, an AI-powered photo editor that looks to take images to the next level. Next, for anyone working on major academic papers, there’s the app Essayists, which helps to source and format your work. Finally, there’s Under My Roof, which is designed to help keep homeowners organised and prepared for anything.
While Macs might not have had a history as gaming machines, that certainly changed in 2025. The first finalist is Assassin’s Creed Shadows, the latest addition to Ubisoft’s historic stealth action series. Next is Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition, which, after a rocky initial launch, has found its footing as one of the best FPS RPGs on the market. Finally, there’s Neva, which uses striking imagery to show the emotional journey of a young woman and her wolf companion.
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Best Apple Arcade games
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If you’re looking for one of the best gaming experiences, then you can’t do much better than Apple Arcade. The finalists for this year start with Katamari Damacy Rolling LIVE, which brings the cult classic rolling game to your Apple devices. Next is PGA TOUR Pro Golf, which lets you play on some of the world’s most famous golf courses. Finally, there’s WHAT THE CLASH? Which offers a wealth of entertaining mini games to help pass the time
Best Apple Vision Pro apps
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The Apple Vision Pro’s finalists start with Camo Studio, which offers more flexible ways to livestream and create videos. Next is D-Day: The Camera Soldier, a groundbreaking interactive documentary that lets you really explore history. Finally, there’s Explore POV, which lets users explore Apple’s library of immersive videos filmed around the world.
The finalists for the best games on the Apple Vision Pro start with Fishing Haven, which allows users to enjoy a calming fishing trip from the comfort of their living room. Next is Gears & Goo, which has you lead your own army on a virtual table. Finally, there’s Porta Nubi, which offers a wealth of light-bending puzzles.
Best Apple Watch and Apple TV apps
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For Apple Watch users, the first finalist is GO Club, which aims to help users stay active and hydrated. Next is Pro Camera by Movement, which makes use of the oft-forgotten camera on the Watch by allowing users to take pro-level photos with ease. Finally, there’s Strava, the social running app that connects you and your friends.
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If you’re looking for the best Apple TV apps, then the first finalist is HBO Max. Next is PBS KIDS Video, which offers numerous kid-friendly entertainment and educational programs. The last finalist is the game Super Farming Boy, which mixes action and puzzles with a farming sim.
Cultural Impact Finalists
Finally, we have the finalists in the cultural impact category, which “fostered greater understanding and gave users more ways to interact with their communities.”
Art of Fauna: A puzzle game utilizing stunning wildlife photos
A Space for the Unbound: A narrative game that explores mental health through a slice-of-life narrative
Be My Eyes: An app that offers three powerful tools to help users who are either blind or have low vision.
Chants of Sennaar: A puzzle game that celebrates the power of language and connection.
Despelote: a soccer game that utilises culturally grounded gameplay to craft a one-of-a-kind experience.
Focus Friend: A focus timer that includes a charming new friend to help gamify focus sessions.
Is This Seat Taken?: A game that aims to foster empathy and inclusivity through a simple gameplay loop of placing people in the right seat.
Retro: A new social app that focuses on creating a privacy-friendly social platform that keeps real friends in the loop.
StoryGraph: An app to help keep you up to date on your reading habits and build an inclusive book community.
Venba: A cooking game based on family, love and spotlighting cultural cuisine alongside heartfelt storytelling.
Whoscall: An app designed to help protect users against scams.
Yuka: An app that helps users make conscious choices about what they consume.
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