From Tiimo to Cyberpunk 2077: Apple reveals the best App Store picks of 2025

On Thursday, Apple unveiled the recipients of the 2025 App Store Awards, showcasing 17 exceptional apps and games that caught the attention of editors through their creativity, design, and cultural significance. Selected from a pool of 45 finalists, these winners exemplify the ongoing innovation and utility that developers bring to Apple’s platforms. Apple CEO Tim Cook emphasized that these awards highlight the remarkable creativity present on the App Store each year. He remarked that the recognized apps illustrate how innovative ideas can transform into experiences that enhance productivity, ease of life, and enjoyment. Cook stated, "This year’s winners represent the creativity and excellence that define the App Store, showcasing the significant impact that outstanding apps and games can have on individuals globally." The coveted iPhone App of the Year title went to Tiimo, a visual planning application designed to simplify goal management with its user-friendly interface and AI capabilities. For the iPad, Detail earned recognition with its intuitive AI video editing tools, making professional-quality editing accessible to both novices and seasoned creators. The Mac App of the Year was awarded to Essayist, which assists students and researchers in efficiently formatting academic papers. Explore POV was honored as the Apple Vision Pro App of the Year for its immersive 3D video experiences that transport users to stunning destinations. Strava took home the Apple Watch App of the Year award due to its streamlined layout and real-time activity tracking, which motivates athletes. HBO Max was recognized on Apple TV for enhancing accessibility through American Sign Language options while offering a diverse array of entertainment. In the gaming category, Pokémon TCG Pocket was named the iPhone Game of the Year, praised for its vibrant artwork and easily accessible card battles tailored for mobile users. DREDGE was honored as the iPad Game of the Year for its unique blend of cozy fishing gameplay intertwined with darker themes. Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition was celebrated as the Mac Game of the Year for its expansive futuristic world brought to Apple computers. On Apple Vision Pro, Porta Nubi captivated players with its atmospheric puzzles, fully immersing them in its virtual setting. WHAT THE CLASH? clinched the Apple Arcade Game of the Year award for its entertaining and chaotic mini-games appealing to a broad audience. Additionally, Apple recognized six apps and games for their positive societal contributions. These Cultural Impact winners were chosen for fostering kindness, accessibility, creativity, and understanding. Art of Fauna transforms animal illustrations into calming puzzles suitable for players of all abilities, while Chants of Sennaar delves into communication through its narrative about language. Despelote offers a poignant look at life in a nation undergoing significant change, unified by a shared passion for football. Be My Eyes was acknowledged for utilizing AI and volunteers to assist individuals with blindness or low vision in daily tasks. Focus Friend by Hank Green encourages productivity by gamifying focus sessions. Lastly, StoryGraph supports an inclusive reading community, helping users discover diverse authors and track their reading journeys. Apple's 2025 App Store Awards underscore the continuous efforts of developers to craft apps and games that inspire, support, and entertain users around the world, highlighting the growing significance of AI, inclusive design, and immersive narratives within Apple’s ecosystem.