Apple has revealed 45 finalists for this year’s App Store Awards, spotlighting users’ favorite apps and games across 12 categories. The company said the finalists represent developers who created standout experiences, helped users improve daily routines, and demonstrated strong technical and creative work.
Apple will announce the winners in the coming weeks, selecting them from this group of finalists. According to Carson Oliver, Apple’s head of App Store Worldwide, the finalists show a high level of skill and dedication. He said their work helped users express creativity, benefit from new technology, and enjoy new kinds of gameplay.
Top iPhone Apps
BandLab was selected to help musicians record and mix tracks within a community. LADDER earned a place for simplifying strength training. Tiimo was included for presenting daily tasks in a calmer, more manageable way.
Top iPhone Games
Capybara Go! was chosen for its quirky idle adventure. Pokémon TCG Pocket was recognized for making digital card collecting and battles more enjoyable. Thronefall stood out for combining defensive battles with simple controls.
Top iPad Apps
Detail was recognized for offering a new approach to content creation. Graintouch earned a place for bringing print art tools to more creators. Structured was highlighted for turning busy schedules into clear, visual timelines.
Top iPad Games
DREDGE was included for delivering a mystery-driven story with smooth gameplay. Infinity Nikki earned recognition for immersing players in the world of Miraland. Prince of Persia: Lost Crown stood out for offering a full, action-packed adventure.
Top Mac Apps
Acorn was named for providing photo-editing tools for professional results. Essayist was chosen for simplifying academic research and formatting. Under My Roof earned its place for helping homeowners stay organized.
Top Mac Games
Assassin’s Creed: Shadows was recognized for its stealth-focused experience set in feudal Japan. Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition was included for its futuristic world and detailed visuals. Neva stood out for its emotional story and striking art.
Top Apple Arcade Games
Katamari Damacy Rolling LIVE was picked for its chaotic, entertaining gameplay. PGA TOUR Pro Golf earned a spot for delivering realistic golf experiences. WHAT THE CLASH? was selected for offering hundreds of humorous mini games.
Top Apple Vision Pro Apps
Camo Studio was included for giving creators flexible livestreaming and video tools. D-Day: The Camera Soldier earned recognition for advancing immersive storytelling. Explore POV was highlighted for its library of immersive videos filmed around the world.
Top Apple Vision Pro Games
Fishing Haven was selected for its calming, immersive fishing experience. Gears & Goo stood out for mixing strategy with charming characters. Porta Nubi earned recognition for its atmospheric puzzles.
Top Apple Watch Apps
GO Club was chosen helpng users stay active and hydrated. Pro Camera by Moment was included to allow users to take high-quality photos from their wrist. Strava earned a spot for its large, connected fitness community.
Top Apple TV Apps
HBO Max was recognized for accessible, must-watch content. PBS KIDS Video earned a place for its safe educational programming. Super Farming Boy 4K stood out for engaging chain-reaction gameplay.
Cultural Impact Finalists
Twelve finalists were recognized for meaningful contributions to culture and community. These include 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, and Yuka. Their work ranges from exploring mental health and preserving language to improving accessibility, encouraging empathy, and helping users make safer choices.
