Apple’s App Store Awards 2025: The most innovative apps and games shortlisted

Apple App Store

Apple has announced 45 finalists for this year’s App Store Awards, spotlighting some of the most innovative apps and games across 12 categories. The annual awards programme recognises developers whose work elevates daily life, boosts productivity, and pushes the boundaries of design and user experience. Apple will reveal the winners in the coming weeks from this select group of global creators.

Carson Oliver, Apple’s head of App Store Worldwide, said the finalists represent a diverse and remarkably talented developer community. He added that the apps honoured this year empower users to express creativity, streamline workflows, and discover new forms of play.

In the iPhone App of the Year category, the spotlight falls on tools that sharpen everyday routines. BandLab enables musicians to record, mix and collaborate seamlessly. LADDER simplifies strength training by removing the guesswork from planning workouts. Tiimo helps users tackle tasks with a calmer, more organised approach.

The iPhone Game of the Year finalists deliver joyful, imaginative fun. Capybara Go! brings a quirky idle adventure starring the internet’s favourite gentle creature. Pokémon TCG Pocket refreshes the iconic card-collecting experience for mobile. Thronefall blends minimalist controls with surprisingly deep strategic battles.

On iPad, creativity and productivity take centre stage. Detail reimagines content creation workflows, giving creators more control and flexibility. Graintouch brings printmaking-inspired art tools to digital artists. Structured turns busy schedules into simple, visual timelines for easier planning.

The iPad Game of the Year finalists include DREDGE, known for its atmospheric mystery and smooth mechanics; Infinity Nikki, which immerses players in the magical world of Miraland; and Prince of Persia: Lost Crown, offering a polished, story-driven adventure.

Mac finalists champion powerful, purpose-built tools. Acorn provides pro-level photo editing in an accessible package. Essayist simplifies academic writing by streamlining citations and formatting. Under My Roof helps homeowners stay organised, prepared and in control.

On Apple Watch, GO Club encourages users to stay active and hydrated, Moment’s Pro Camera app brings advanced photography to the wrist, and Strava continues to unite the global fitness community through performance-focused tracking.