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Apple announced its 2025 App Store Awards winners on December 4, naming 17 apps and games selected by App Store editors from 45 finalists. The winners span Apple platforms, with six additional apps recognized for cultural impact.
2025 App Store Award winners by platform
Apple describes the awards as editorial selections based on innovation, user experience, and design. The company did not publish comparative scores or head-to-head rankings, so the awards identify Apple’s category winners rather than establishing which app or game is best for every player.
| Category | Winner | Developer named by Apple |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone App of the Year | Tiimo | tiimo |
| iPhone Game of the Year | Pokémon TCG Pocket | The Pokemon Company |
| iPad App of the Year | Detail | Detail Technologies B.V. |
| iPad Game of the Year | DREDGE | Black Salt Games |
| Mac App of the Year | Essayist | Essayist Software Inc. |
| Mac Game of the Year | Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition | CD PROJEKT S.A. |
| Apple Vision Pro App of the Year | Explore POV | James Hustler |
| Apple Vision Pro Game of the Year | Porta Nubi | Michael Temper |
| Apple Watch App of the Year | Strava | Strava, Inc. |
| Apple TV App of the Year | HBO Max | WarnerMedia Global Digital Services, LLC |
| Apple Arcade Game of the Year | WHAT THE CLASH? | Triband ApS |
Cultural Impact winners
Apple also named six winners in its Cultural Impact category. The company says these works and tools were recognized for positive impact, helping people, promoting understanding, or contributing to a more inclusive world.
| Winner | Developer or organization named by Apple |
|---|---|
| Art of Fauna | Klemens Strasser |
| Chants of Sennaar | Playdigious |
| despelote | Panic, Inc. |
| Be My Eyes | Be My Eyes |
| Focus Friend by Hank Green | B-Tech Consulting Group LLC |
| StoryGraph | The StoryGraph |
How Apple characterizes the awards
Apple says its editors hand-selected the winners from 45 finalists for exceptional innovation, user experience, and design. Its announcement describes the 17 recognized apps and games as examples of technical ingenuity and lasting cultural impact. Those are Apple’s stated judgments, not independently measured ratings.
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#1 Best Overall
Gaming Case for iPad Pro 11-Inch 2022/2021/ 2020/2018 Model 1st/ 2nd/ 3rd/ 4th Gen, for PUBG/COD, Detachable Grips & Removable Panel, Hollowed-Out Design for Coolers,Cover with Grips (Blue)
- Slim Case designed for iPad Pro 11" 2022 4th Generation (Model: A2759 / A2435 / A2761 / A2762), 2021 3rd Generation (Model: A2377 / A2459 / A2301 / A2460) , also fits iPad Pro 11 2nd Gen 2020 (Model: A2228 / A2231 / A2068 / A2230) & iPad Pro 11 Inch 1st Gen 2018 (Model: A1980 / A2013 / A1934 / A1979). Please check back bottom of your iPad to find the model number
- Perfect for the iPad Pro, this gaming kit transforms your tablet into a dedicated console with detachable ergonomic grips and a heat-dissipating hollowed-back design to prevent performance throttling during extended play.
- With its patented quick-release mechanism, you can remove the front cover and switch to gaming mode in just one second. Precision-designed for the 11-inch iPad Pro, it offers full access to all ports and cameras.
- The built-in magnetic slot securely holds and charges your Apple Pencil (2nd Gen), keeping it always ready to use. The durable front cover doubles as a stable stand for comfortable typing or viewing, and automatically wakes or sleeps your screen to preserve battery life.
- Built to military-grade drop-test standards with reinforced corners, this case provides reliable protection without bulk. Anti-slip strips on the back and stand keep your iPad Pro firmly in place on any surface.
Apple CEO Tim Cook said: “Every year, we’re inspired by the ways developers turn their best ideas into innovative experiences that enrich people’s lives.”
Availability and device caveats
Winning an award does not guarantee that a title can be downloaded by every reader. Apple’s App Store awards page notes that some titles may not be available in a reader’s region or on all devices; app restrictions and age ratings may also affect whether a title appears. Check the relevant App Store listing for your region and device before looking for a specific winner.
Rank #2
Gaming Case for iPad Air 11-inch M4/ M3/ M2 (2026/2025/2024), iPad Air 5th/ 4th Gen (2022/2020) 10.9 Inch, Detachable Panel & Grip, Auto Sleep/Wake, Hollowed-Out Design (Gray)
- Compatibility: SidunRilax Case Only fit iPad Air 11" 8th Gen (M4) 2026, 7th Gen (M3) 2025, 6th Gen (M2) 2024, iPad Air 5th/4th Gen 10.9" 2022/2020. Fit models: A3266, A3267, A3270, A2902, A2903, A2904, A2588, A2589, A2591, A2324, A2072, A2316, A2325. NOT for other devices. Please check your model number.
- Upgrades Your Gaming Grip Experience: This professional‑grade case for iPad Air features detachable silicone gaming handles and a removable front panel — no need to take your iPad out when installing or removing them. Enjoy a stable, non‑slip hold and customizable protection during intense gameplay, and step up your comfort and control.
- Enhanced Cooling & Convenience: The ventilated back panel improves airflow and works with most external cooling fans (fan not included). With easy Touch ID access and auto wake/sleep support, this gaming case keeps your iPad cooler and more convenient to use than standard cases.
- Versatile for Every Scenario: More than just a gaming case for iPad Air, it offers solid drop and scratch protection for everyday use. It’s also kid‑friendly, making it a great all‑around choice for both daily tasks and family‑oriented scenarios.
- Durable Material for Strong Protection：Crafted from high-toughness materials, it offers excellent resistance against drops and scratches. It meets common protection standards for iPad Air series cases, well balancing practical daily use and long-term durability.
Sources: Apple Newsroom, “Apple unveils the winners of the 2025 App Store Awards” (December 4, 2025); Apple App Store, “Announcing the 2025 App Store Awards”.
Quick Recap
Best Value
Gaming Case for iPad Air 11-inch M4/ M3/ M2 (2026/2025/2024), iPad Air 5th/ 4th Gen (2022/2020) 10.9 Inch, Detachable Panel & Grip, Auto Sleep/Wake, Hollowed-Out Design (Black)
- Compatibility: SidunRilax Case Only fit iPad Air 11" 8th Gen (M4) 2026, 7th Gen (M3) 2025, 6th Gen (M2) 2024, iPad Air 5th/4th Gen 10.9" 2022/2020. Fit models: A3266, A3267, A3270, A2902, A2903, A2904, A2588, A2589, A2591, A2324, A2072, A2316, A2325. NOT for other devices. Please check your model number.
- Upgrades Your Gaming Grip Experience: This professional‑grade case for iPad Air features detachable silicone gaming handles and a removable front panel — no need to take your iPad out when installing or removing them. Enjoy a stable, non‑slip hold and customizable protection during intense gameplay, and step up your comfort and control.
- Enhanced Cooling & Convenience: The ventilated back panel improves airflow and works with most external cooling fans (fan not included). With easy Touch ID access and auto wake/sleep support, this gaming case keeps your iPad cooler and more convenient to use than standard cases.
- Versatile for Every Scenario: More than just a gaming case for iPad Air, it offers solid drop and scratch protection for everyday use. It’s also kid‑friendly, making it a great all‑around choice for both daily tasks and family‑oriented scenarios.
- Durable Material for Strong Protection：Crafted from high-toughness materials, it offers excellent resistance against drops and scratches. It meets common protection standards for iPad Air series cases, well balancing practical daily use and long-term durability.
Rank #4
Wazzasoft for iPad 10th Generation Case with Keyboard - for iPad A16 Cases Pencil Holder 10.9 Inch Cover Men Boys Cute Teen Cool Black Gaming Design Funda for Apple Tablet 10th/11th gen
- Model Specific: Designed exclusively for iPad 10th generation case and for iPad A16 2025, ensuring full access to all buttons, cameras, and ports. Please check your model before purchasing.
- Detachable Keyboard: The detachable keyboard allows you to effortlessly switch your tablet between typing and tablet mode, perfect for on-the-go productivity, and is perfect for writing emails, reports, or catching up on work while you're away from your desk.
- Built-in Pencil Holder: This for iPad 10th generation case and for iPad 11 A16 case with pen holder can keep your Pencil secure and within reach with our dedicated pen slot to prevent loss or misplacement. So it's always ready for use and never lost.
- Full-Body Protection: Our for ipad case 10th/11th generation provides full-edge protection and comprehensive coverage to safeguard your tablet from drops and impacts, ensuring it remains in pristine condition, giving you peace of mind.
- Stylish Design: With an aesthetically pleasing design, this for ipad 10/11 case is not only practical but also visually appealing, making it an ideal gift for special occasions for daughters, family, and friends.
Rank #3
Miss Adola for iPad A16 Case/10th Generation Case - 10.9 Inch 2022 Tablet Cover with Pen Holder for Women Boys Girls Men Cute Cartoon Cool Funny Funda for iPad 11th 11 Inch 2025, Game
- Our cases are compatible with iPad 10th Generation 2022 10.9 Inches(Model A2696/A2757/A2777), 11th(A16) Generation 2025 11 inch(Model A3354/A3355/A3356), make your iPad can stand at 4 different positions on the table. Provide you comfortable viewing and typing experiences
- Our cases for iPad 11/10 gen are made of premium durable PU leather and soft TPU, offer a good protection from drop and shock. It is stain resistant, and easy to clean. The high-definition printing process makes clear pattern and it not fade easily
- This for iPad 11th gen case, for iPad 10th gen case has built-in pencil holder, so you can place and remove your apple pencil easily. It can prevent you from losing or breaking your for Apple Pencil while walking or outdoors
- Built-in magnetic strip, this case for ipad A16 with the smart function of auto sleep and auto wake, no wasting the power energy and extend your for iPad standby time
- This for iPad 11th(A16)/10th generation folio case with cute cool pattern, making your for iPad look more stylish. It is also a good case for boys, girls, kids, women
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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