Nominees for the Apple App Store Awards 2024 Announced

The 2024 Apple App Store Awards highlight 45 apps and games across 12 categories. Explore this year’s most innovative and engaging digital experiences.

The Apple App Store Awards 2024 has revealed its 45 finalists. The awards showcase the most popular, innovative, and user-friendly apps and games across the entire Apple ecosystem. This year’s awards recognise developers who have redefined digital experiences through exceptional design and creativity.

Last year, travel apps dominated the iPhone category with three nominations going to Duolingo, AllTrails and Flighty, which also became my Best Travel App for 2023 and followed up again in this year’s list.

The 2024 nominees show that productivity tools were the most popular choice among Apple owners, and immersive gaming was preferred over casual puzzles.

iPhone App of the Year Finalists

Kino
Transform everyday moments into cinematic masterpieces with Kino, a powerful video editing app designed to make professional tools accessible to everyone. Its standout features include intuitive timelines, one-tap cinematic filters, and AI-powered scene editing that takes the guesswork out of creating polished videos.

Runna
Runna offers tailored training plans for runners, from beginners aiming for their first 5K to seasoned marathoners chasing personal bests. With GPS tracking, real-time pace coaching, and adaptive plans based on performance, this app ensures every run has a purpose. It also integrates with Apple Health, making it a seamless part of your fitness routine.

Tripsy
The only travel app on this year’s iPhone list, Tripsy, is perfect for travellers who crave organisation. It consolidates every aspect of your journey into one app, from flight details and hotel bookings to day-by-day itineraries. Tripsy’s interface makes trip planning a breeze. The collaborative feature lets you share plans with travel companions, while notifications for check-ins and updates keep you on track even in the busiest airports.

iPhone Game of the Year Finalists

AFK Journey
Dive into enchanting fantasy worlds with AFK Journey. Its vibrant artwork and captivating narratives offer an escape into a magical universe, while strategic gameplay ensures depth for seasoned players. Form teams, explore dungeons, and unlock character abilities in a game that evolves with your decisions.

The WereCleaner
This quirky title blends humour with puzzle-solving as you navigate a unique storyline involving unexpected transformations. With clever level design and engaging challenges, The WereCleaner stands out as a game that doesn’t take itself too seriously yet delivers plenty of fun.

Zenless Zone Zero
From the makers of Genshin Impact comes Zenless Zone Zero, a high-energy game packed with intense action sequences and immersive world-building. Players embark on a fast-paced adventure filled with plot twists, dynamic combat systems, and a roster of compelling characters.

iPad App of the Year Finalists

Bluey: Let’s Play
Based on the globally loved children’s show, Bluey: Let’s Play offers games and activities that encourage creativity, problem-solving, and family interaction. The app’s vibrant visuals and cheerful soundtrack bring the charm of Bluey straight to your screen.

Moises
Musicians of all skill levels will appreciate Moises, an AI-powered app that isolates instruments in any track for practice and remixing. Adjust tempos, pitch, and volume to suit your needs, making it a game-changer for rehearsals and creative sessions.

Procreate Dreams
Procreate Dreams takes iPad animation to new heights. Its groundbreaking tools simplify creating animated stories, offering layers, motion paths, and effects that rival professional-grade software. Perfect for artists and storytellers, this app makes high-quality animation achievable on the go.

iPad Game of the Year Finalists

Assassin’s Creed Mirage
Dive into a richly detailed Middle Eastern setting in this instalment of the Assassin’s Creed franchise. Focusing on stealth and narrative-driven gameplay, Assassin’s Creed Mirage brings console-quality gaming to the iPad, optimised for smooth performance on Apple’s latest chips.

Disney Speedstorm
Hit the tracks with Disney and Pixar favourites in this exhilarating kart racing game. From underwater Finding Nemo courses to futuristic Tron circuits, Disney Speedstorm combines stunning visuals, multiplayer modes, and customisable karts for an unforgettable racing experience. Perfect for players of all ages, it delivers fast-paced fun with a nostalgic touch.

Squad Busters
A chaotic multiplayer hit that blends strategy with playful fun. In Squad Busters, players collect characters, gather resources, and outwit opponents in fast-paced matches. Its colourful visuals and dynamic gameplay make it a standout choice for light-hearted yet competitive entertainment.

Apple Arcade Game of the Year Finalists

Balatro+
Balatro+ reinvents the classic card game experience by combining strategy, chance, and beautifully designed cards. Each match presents new challenges as players navigate evolving rules and dynamic scenarios. Its easy-to-learn mechanics and endless replayability make it perfect for quick sessions or long strategic playthroughs.

Outlanders 2
Build, explore, and lead in this captivating sequel to the popular village-building game. Outlanders 2 introduces improved graphics, deeper gameplay mechanics, and more imaginative levels. Players will enjoy balancing creativity with resource management as they grow thriving settlements in beautifully designed worlds.

Sonic Dream Team
Sonic Dream Team is a fresh take on the beloved Sonic franchise. It features dynamic gameplay, vivid environments, and nostalgic nods to the series’ roots. Players race through imaginative levels with Sonic and friends, combining high-speed action with engaging new mechanics for a modern adventure.

Apple Watch App of the Year Finalists

Gentler Streak
Designed for fitness enthusiasts, Gentler Streak promotes balanced exercise routines by helping users track their activity and rest days. It integrates heart rate monitoring, progress tracking, and workout recommendations, ensuring users stay active while avoiding burnout. Perfect for those aiming to maintain long-term fitness habits.

Cardiogram
Cardiogram offers real-time insights into heart health, leveraging the Apple Watch’s sensors to track heart rate variability and resting pulse. It provides actionable advice and supports users in identifying patterns that may indicate health concerns, making it a must-have for those focused on well-being.

AutoSleep
With its advanced sleep-tracking capabilities, AutoSleep turns your Apple Watch into a comprehensive sleep monitor. The app provides detailed insights into sleep quality, cycles, and readiness scores, helping users optimise their rest and overall health. Its intuitive interface makes it easy to use and interpret data.

Winners will be announced in December, but until then, dive into these apps and games to experience innovation at its finest.

And good news for Android users: many of these apps are available on the Google Play Store.