Apple Reveals Finalists for the 2025 App Store Awards

Apple has officially revealed the 45 finalists for the 2025 App Store Awards, highlighting standout apps and games across 12 categories. The annual awards recognize developers worldwide who deliver exceptional experiences, combining technical innovation, great design, and features that improve everyday life. Winners for each category will be announced in the coming weeks.

Carson Oliver, Apple’s head of App Store Worldwide, said the finalists represent a global community of creators dedicated to craftsmanship and their work “empowered users to tap into their creativity, achieve more through technical innovations, and discover new adventures through the world of gameplay.”

iPhone App of the Year Finalists

Apps in this category helped users streamline everyday workflows.

• BandLab helps musicians record, mix, and collaborate with a global community.
• LADDER removes confusion from strength training with expert-built workout plans.
• Tiimo presents tasks and routines in a calm, visually guided format.

iPhone Game of the Year Finalists

Games that delivered inventive mechanics and broad appeal.

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• Capybara Go! takes players on a quirky idle adventure starring a capybara.
• Pokémon TCG Pocket revamps Pokémon card collecting and battles for mobile.
• Thronefall blends minimalist controls with fast, strategic battles.

iPad App of the Year Finalists

Apps that enhance creativity and productivity.

• Detail reimagines the video creation workflow for modern creators.
• Graintouch brings print-art-inspired creative tools to the iPad.
• Structured turns packed schedules into clean, digestible timelines.

iPad Game of the Year Finalists

Narrative-rich adventures optimized for tablet gameplay.

• DREDGE pulls players into a mystery that unfolds across dark waters.
• Infinity Nikki invites exploration through the whimsical lands of Miraland.
• Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown delivers fluid action and a cinematic story.

Mac App of the Year Finalists

Tools that support deep work and big projects.

• Acorn offers pro-level editing tools in a lightweight package.
• Essayist simplifies academic writing with smart research and citation tools.
• Under My Roof keeps home records, planning, and organization in one place.

Mac Game of the Year Finalists

Titles offering rich worlds and cinematic storytelling.

• Assassin’s Creed Shadows sends players on a stealth-focused journey through feudal Japan.
• Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition showcases a visually striking, futuristic open world.
• Neva tells an emotional story supported by beautifully crafted art.

Apple Arcade Game of the Year Finalists

Fun, polished experiences available through Apple Arcade.

• Katamari Damacy Rolling LIVE brings back the chaotic joy of rolling everything in sight.
• PGA TOUR Pro Golf puts players on realistic courses with pro-level gameplay.
• WHAT THE CLASH? delivers rapid-fire mini-games packed with humor.

Apple Vision Pro App of the Year Finalists

Apps that showcase immersive spatial computing.

• Camo Studio gives creators more flexibility when livestreaming or shooting video.
• D-Day: The Camera Soldier sets a new benchmark for immersive documentary storytelling.
• Explore POV offers a growing library of immersive videos filmed across the world.

Apple Vision Pro Game of the Year Finalists

Spatial games that define the future of interaction.

• Fishing Haven offers a peaceful, spacious fishing escape.
• Gears & Goo combines thoughtful puzzles with charming characters.
• Porta Nubi creates atmospheric experiences built around bending light.

Apple Watch App of the Year Finalists

Apps that bring health and utility features to the wrist.

• GO Club keeps users on track with hydration and activity goals.
• Pro Camera by Moment lets creators trigger pro-grade controls right from their wrist.
• Strava continues to connect runners and cyclists through detailed performance data.

Apple TV App of the Year Finalists

Apps offering premium entertainment on the big screen.

• HBO Max brings premium shows and movies with accessible features.
• PBS KIDS Video ensures safe, educational entertainment for children.
• Super Farming Boy 4K challenges players with chain reactions and combo-driven gameplay.

Cultural Impact Finalists

Apps and games recognized for fostering connection, awareness, and community.

• Art of Fauna
• A Space for the Unbound
• Be My Eyes
• Chants of Sennaar
• despellote
• Focus Friend
• Is This Seat Taken?
• Retro
• StoryGraph
• Venba
• Whoscall
• Yuka

The Stage Is Set…

All eyes are now on Apple as it prepares to announce the winners. With such a strong list of finalists, this year’s App Store Awards are set to be one of the most exciting yet.

Who’s your top choice this year? Share your pick in the comment below.