We’re getting close to the end of 2025, which means Apple is back with one of its most fun year-end traditions.
Today, the company revealed its 45 finalists for the 2025 App Store Awards, covering everything from productivity apps to blockbuster games to Vision Pro experiences.
It’s basically Apple’s way of highlighting the apps that defined the year… and reminding us how massive the App Store ecosystem has become.
Carson Oliver, Apple’s head of App Store Worldwide, called this year’s lineup “diverse and talented” and said these apps pushed creativity, productivity, and gameplay further than ever. And honestly, looking at the list, he isn’t wrong.
Below is the full breakdown across all categories.
iPhone App of the Year Finalists
These apps focused on helping users organize life a bit better:
- BandLab – A community-driven music creation app.
- LADDER – Smarter strength training without the guesswork.
- Tiimo – A calmer, more visual way to manage your day.
iPhone Game of the Year Finalists
A mix of nostalgia, strategy, and quirky fun:
- Capybara Go! – Idle adventure with the internet’s favorite animal.
- Pokémon TCG Pocket – A modern take on legendary Pokémon card collecting.
- Thronefall– Minimalist controls with surprisingly intense battles.
iPad App of the Year Finalists
Creativity-focused tools that turn the iPad into a productivity powerhouse:
- Detail– A reimagined workflow for creators.
- Graintouch – Print-art inspired design tools.
- Structured – A visual way to timeline your busiest days.
iPad Game of the Year Finalists
Bigger screen, deeper stories:
- DREDGE – A moody mystery meets smooth gameplay.
- Infinity Nikki – A magical world brought to life.
- Prince of Persia Lost Crown – Classic adventure energy with modern polish.
Mac App of the Year Finalists
Apps for people who get things done:
- Acorn – Pro-level photo editing without the learning curve.
- Essayist – Saves students from citation chaos.
- Under My Roof – Home organization for the real world.
Mac Game of the Year Finalists
Mac gaming really stepped up this year:
- Assassin’s Creed Shadows – A stealthy journey through feudal Japan.
- Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition – Neon visuals perfected.
- Neva – Emotional storytelling meets gorgeous art.
Apple Arcade Game of the Year Finalists
Chaotic, wholesome, and competitive:
- Katamari Damacy Rolling LIVE – Stick everything. Roll everywhere.
- PGA TOUR Pro Golf – Golf fans get their dream sim.
- WHAT THE CLASH? – Chaotic mini games that never get old.
Apple Vision Pro App of the Year Finalists
Apps that leaned into immersion:
- Camo Studio – A better way to livestream and produce.
- D-Day: The Camera Soldier – Historical storytelling like never before.
- Explore POV – Apple Immersive Video taken global.
Apple Vision Pro Game of the Year Finalists
Spatial gaming is officially a thing:
- Fishing Haven – Relaxing, immersive fishing.
- Gears & Goo – Strategy meets adorable characters.
- Porta Nubi – Light-bending puzzles that feel futuristic.
Apple Watch App of the Year Finalists
Small screen, big impact:
- GO Club – Fitness and hydration nudges that actually help.
- Pro Camera by Moment – Yes, you can trigger pro photos from your wrist.
- Strava – The fitness community’s favorite companion.
Apple TV App of the Year Finalists
Entertainment on the big screen:
- HBO Max – A smoother streaming experience with better accessibility.
- PBS KIDS Video – A parent-friendly, safe kids library.
- Super Farming Boy 4K – Strategy gaming in 4K glory.
Cultural Impact Finalists
Apps that genuinely moved the needle in society:
- Art of Fauna, A Space for the Unbound, Be My Eyes, Chants of Sennaar, despelote, Focus Friend, Is This Seat Taken?, Retro, StoryGraph, Venba, Whoscall, Yuka — covering everything from mental health to accessibility to scam prevention.
Apple will announce the winners in December, and honestly, this year’s competition looks tight across every category.
Which apps do you think deserve to win?
