Apple has just revealed the finalists for its 2025 App Store Awards, spotlighting outstanding apps and games across 12 device categories. The annual recognition celebrates developers who push boundaries in innovation, design, and social impact.
This year’s finalists were selected by Apple’s App Store editorial team. According to Carson Oliver, Apple’s head of App Store Worldwide, the nominees reflect a “diverse and talented group” whose work inspires users, sparks creativity, and delivers technically strong experiences.
These apps are not just popular, they represent real innovation and meaningful design. Apple says the finalists “help users accomplish more, reimagine their daily workflows, and push creative boundaries.”
iPhone App of the Year Finalists
For the iPhone, the nominees are BandLab, LADDER, and Tiimo. BandLab supports musicians to create and mix music collaboratively, LADDER guides strength training, while Tiimo offers a calming, visual way to manage tasks and routines.
On the gaming side, Capybara Go!, Pokémon TCG Pocket, and Thronefall are in the running. These games range from quirky idle adventures to strategic battles and card collecting.
iPad App of the Year Finalists
On iPad, the App of the Year finalists include Detail, Graintouch, and Structured. Detail is an AI-powered video editor, Graintouch is inspired by print art, and Structured turns busy schedules into visual timelines.
For games, Apple has nominated DREDGE, Infinity Nikki, and Prince of Persia: Lost Crown. These games offer deep storytelling, exploration, and classic platforming.
Mac App of the Year Finalists
Mac apps recognized this year include Acorn, a powerful photo-editing tool, Essayist, a writing tool tailored for academic styles, and Under My Roof, designed to organize inventory for homeowners.
Mac games in the spotlight are Assassin’s Creed Shadows, Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition, and Neva, each known for immersive worlds and emotional narratives.
Apple Arcade Game of the Year Finalists
In the Apple Arcade category, the standout finalists are Katamari Damacy Rolling LIVE, PGA Tour Pro Golf, and WHAT THE CLASH?, all praised for their fun and polished gameplay.
You can check out the source page for the list of Apple Vision Pro and Apple TV app of the year finalists.
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