Apple has officially announced the 45 finalists for its 2024 App Store Awards, showcasing the year’s most innovative apps and games across 12 categories. These finalists were chosen for their excellence in design, user experience, and technological advancement, demonstrating the App Store’s global impact on creativity, productivity, and entertainment.

For the first time, the awards also feature a category for the Apple Vision Pro, spotlighting groundbreaking achievements in spatial computing. Winners will be selected from this standout group and announced in the coming weeks.

“We’re thrilled to celebrate this year’s App Store Award finalists, whose imagination and craftsmanship have produced amazing apps that users love,” said Carson Oliver, Apple’s head of Worldwide App Store.

2024 App Store Awards Finalists

Here’s a breakdown of all 45 finalists:

iPhone App of the Year Finalists

These apps empower users to elevate their daily lives with innovative tools:

• Kino: Turn everyday moments into cinematic masterpieces.
• Runna: Personalized training plans for runners of all experience levels.
• Tripsy: A stress-free travel organization app.

iPhone Game of the Year Finalists

iPhone games that combine stunning visuals and engaging narratives:

• AFK Journey: An enchanting fantasy RPG with epic battles.
• The WereCleaner: Comical gameplay with a unique twist.
• Zenless Zone Zero: Action-packed adventures with compelling storytelling.

iPad App of the Year Finalists

Apps that inspire creativity and imagination on the larger screen:

• Bluey: Let’s Play: Family-friendly fun featuring lovable characters.
• Moises: AI-powered tools for enhanced music practice.
• Procreate Dreams: Bring animations and digital art to life.

iPad Game of the Year Finalists

Games that showcase immersive storytelling and detailed worlds:

• Assassin’s Creed Mirage: A narrative-driven adventure set in stunning environments.
• Disney Speedstorm: High-speed racing fun with beloved characters.
• Squad Busters: A playful yet competitive gaming experience.

Apple Arcade Game of the Year Finalists

Apple Arcade’s standout titles combine innovation and nostalgia:

• Balatro+: A fresh and thrilling take on card games.
• Outlanders 2: A visually revamped sequel with imaginative gameplay.
• Sonic Dream Team: Classic characters in brand-new adventures.

Mac App of the Year Finalists

Apps that redefine productivity and creativity on macOS:

• Adobe Lightroom: AI-powered photo editing tools for professionals.
• OmniFocus 4: Simplified and effective task management.
• Shapr3D: Streamlined 3D design for architects and creatives.

Mac Game of the Year Finalists

Mac games with compelling visuals and unique gameplay experiences:

• Frostpunk 2: A city-building sequel with moral and survival challenges.
• Stray: A mysterious adventure featuring a lovable feline protagonist.
• Thank Goodness You’re Here!: Absurd humour paired with creative gameplay.

Apple Watch App of the Year Finalists

Convenient and practical tools for life on your wrist:

• LookUp: Daily vocabulary-building made easy.
• Lumy: Sun and moon tracking for mindful living.
• Watch to 5K: Coaching and motivation for beginner runners.

Apple Vision Pro App of the Year Finalists

Pioneering apps pushing the boundaries of spatial computing:

• JigSpace: Explore and interact with 3D models.
• NBA: A futuristic way to experience sports.
• What If…? An Immersive Story: Marvel’s storytelling reimagined for augmented reality.

Apple Vision Pro Game of the Year Finalists

Games that redefine immersive experiences:

• Loóna: Relaxing puzzles in vibrant, serene settings.
• THRASHER: Mesmerizing alien worlds with smooth controls.
• Vacation Simulator: Hilariously interactive virtual destinations.

Apple TV App of the Year Finalists

Apps bringing bold experiences to the biggest screen in your home:

• DROPOUT: Endless laughs and fun with exclusive shows.
• F1 TV: Immersive race day experiences straight from the cockpit.
• Zoom: Seamless group communication on the big screen.

Cultural Impact Finalists

Apps and games that tell powerful stories and foster personal growth:

• Arco: Interactive storytelling that lets players shape their journey.
• The Bear: A calming, interactive bedtime experience.
• BetterSleep: Tools to help users rest and recharge.
• Brawl Stars: Bite-sized action-packed multiplayer battles.
• DailyArt: A daily dose of artistic inspiration.
• Do You Really Want to Know 2: Tackles HIV misconceptions through heartfelt storytelling.
• EF Hello: AI-powered tools for language learners.
• NYT Games: Puzzle games uniting players across generations.
• Oko: Accessible tools for safer street-crossing.
• Partiful: Simplifying social gatherings and fostering connections.
• Pinterest: An endless source of ideas and inspiration.
• The Wreck: A cinematic, emotionally impactful gaming experience.

Why It Matters

With the 2024 App Store Awards, Apple continues to champion creativity and innovation. From cinematic mobile apps to groundbreaking mixed-reality experiences, this year’s finalists represent the future of technology and its role in shaping our lives.

The winners will be revealed soon, but these 45 apps and games have already secured their place as some of the year’s most impactful creations. Stay tuned as we celebrate the best of the best in the coming weeks!