Apple’s 2024 App Store Awards: The Finalists

Explore the most innovative and user-focused apps and games of 2024 as Apple unveils its App Store Awards finalists, setting new standards in design and creativity across 12 categories.
2024-12-05

Apple’s 2024 App Store Awards: The Finalists
Apple has announced the finalists for the 2024 App Store Awards, celebrating the developers behind the year’s most outstanding apps and games. This year, 45 finalists across 12 categories have been selected, spotlighting the best in user experience, innovation, and design. Notably, the 2024 awards introduce a new Apple Vision Pro category, showcasing achievements in spatial computing.

 

Carson Oliver, Apple’s head of Worldwide App Store, remarked, “We’re thrilled to celebrate this year’s App Store Award finalists, whose imagination and craftsmanship have produced amazing apps that users love. From games that transport players to fantastical new worlds, to apps that fuel creativity, these developers are delivering remarkable experiences that captivate and inspire.”

 

Finalists by Category

 

iPhone App of the Year
iPhone App of the Year

 ● Kino – A pro video camera app by the creators of Halide, known for its intuitive and powerful video recording capabilities.

 ● Runna – Offers tailored training plans to runners of all experience levels.

 ● Tripsy – A tool for organizing travel plans and reducing travel-related stress.

 

iPhone Game of the Year
iPhone Game of the Year

 ● AFK Journey – A fantasy adventure game with rich storytelling and epic battles.

 ● The WereCleaner – A humorous and creative game filled with fun gameplay.

 ● Zenless Zone Zero – An action-packed game that immerses players in dynamic narratives.

 

iPad App of the Year
iPad App of the Year

 ● Bluey: Let’s Play – A family-friendly app featuring lovable characters and interactive play.

 ● Moises – An AI-powered music practice tool that enhances learning.

 ● Procreate Dreams – Allows users to bring their animated stories to life with advanced animation tools.

 

iPad Game of the Year
iPad Game of the Year

 ● Assassin’s Creed Mirage – A narrative-driven adventure game offering an engaging experience.

 ● Disney Speedstorm – High-speed racing action featuring Disney characters.

 ● Squad Busters – A competitive game with a fun and inviting atmosphere.

 

Apple Arcade Game of the Year
Apple Arcade Game of the Year

 ● Balatro+ – A unique card game that redefines the genre.

 ● Outlanders 2 – An upgraded version of the original game, featuring improved graphics and creative levels.

 ● Sonic Dream Team – Brings new adventures to the classic Sonic franchise.

 

Mac App of the Year
Mac App of the Year

 ● Adobe Lightroom – A photo editing tool enhanced with AI for better results.

 ● OmniFocus 4 – Simplifies task management and boosts productivity.

 ● Shapr3D – Transforms the 3D design workflow with user-friendly tools.

 

Mac Game of the Year
Mac Game of the Year

 ● Frostpunk 2 – Expands on the city-building genre with more complex gameplay.

 ● Stray – A game that combines mystery and playful exploration.

 ● Thank Goodness You’re Here! – A humorous and whimsical game full of surprises.

 

Apple Watch App of the Year
Apple Watch App of the Year

 ● LookUp – Enhances vocabulary learning with daily definitions.

 ● Lumy – Connects users to the natural rhythms of the sun and moon.

 ● Watch to 5K – A running app that helps users train for a 5K race.

 

Apple Vision Pro App of the Year
Apple Vision Pro App of the Year

 ● JigSpace – Provides users with an easy way to view and interact with 3D and AR models.

 ● NBA – Redefines sports viewing with an immersive experience.

 ● What If…? An Immersive Story – An interactive Marvel experience that invites exploration.

 

Apple Vision Pro Game of the Year
Apple Vision Pro Game of the Year

 ● Loóna – A relaxing puzzle game designed to unwind.

 ● THRASHER – Features smooth, innovative controls and an alien world full of wonder.

 ● Vacation Simulator – Takes players on humorous and engaging vacations.

 

Apple TV App of the Year
Apple TV App of the Year

 ● DROPOUT – Delivers endless entertainment and laughter.

 ● F1 TV – Provides a front-seat experience for racing fans.

 ● Zoom – A platform that connects people in new and inventive ways.

 

Cultural Impact Finalists
Cultural Impact Finalists

 ● Arco – Empowers players to create their own narratives.

 ● The Bear – Transforms bedtime into a calming and interactive experience.

 ● BetterSleep – Helps users achieve better sleep and overall well-being.

 ● Brawl Stars – Provides quick, action-packed gameplay.

 ● DailyArt – Inspires curiosity about renowned art pieces.

 ● Do You Really Want to Know 2 – Aimed at dispelling misconceptions about HIV with an engaging story.

 ● EF Hello – Enhances language learning with AI-driven tools.

 ● NYT Games – Brings generations together with a daily dose of fun.

 ● Oko – Makes street-crossing safer and more accessible.

 ● Partiful – Simplifies social gatherings and fosters community.

 ● Pinterest – Sparks creativity and exploration.

 ● The Wreck – An emotionally impactful story told through cinematic gameplay.

 

The winners for each category will be revealed in the coming weeks. This year’s finalists exemplify the forefront of technological innovation, creativity, and user-centered design. As we await the announcement of the winners, it’s clear that these apps and games set new benchmarks in the digital landscape.

Mia Mello
Senior Digital Marketer
Mia believes that storytelling and genuine connections are the game-changers. So she spends most of her time strolling around the park near her house and talking with people about different kinds of topics that come to her mind.