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Apple’s iPhones, iPads, and Macs can offer much more thanks to the creativity and innovation of app developers. The Cupertino tech giant is now putting the spotlight on a diverse array of apps and games, showcasing nearly 40 developers shortlisted for 2023’s App Store Awards.
These finalists, handpicked by App Store editors, stand out for their creativity, utility, and the joy they’ve brought to users worldwide.
“We are excited about the achievements of these App Store Award finalists who are helping users around the world to explore their interests in drawing, design, video editing, education, music, time management, working out, hiking, playing games, and so much more,” says Phil Schiller, Apple Fellow. “These finalists are all incredibly talented and have put enormous effort into creating these great apps and games.”
Apple’s App Store Awards, now running for over a decade, will name its winning titles later this month. Meet some of the shortlisted apps and games below.
iPhone App of the Year

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Apple has whittled down its catalog of iOS titles to uncover those well-deserved in being crowned iPhone App of the Year. These apps have helped users explore new skills and interests.
AllTrails, a hiking and outdoor adventure app, is being recognized for prominently guiding users on journeys into the great outdoors.
Duolingo, the language (and math!) learning app, has made education accessible to a global audience.
Flighty, the flight-tracking app, might reap new rewards for keeping travelers on schedule and reducing vacation-related anxieties.
iPad App of the Year

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For the iPad App of the Year category, finalists have transformed the device into a canvas and editing suite for the creatively inclined.
Concepts, a versatile sketchbook with vector-based tools, has empowered innovative drawing and dynamic color palettes that artists and designers can retrieve on the go.
DaVinci Resolve, a powerful video editing app, is being acknowledged for bringing professional post-production powers to portable devices.
And Prêt-à-Makeup, a digital face chart notepad, is breathing life into makeup designs for beauty enthusiasts.
Mac App of the Year

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These Mac App of the Year contenders are being celebrated for enhancing focus, productivity, and artistic expression.
Linearity Curve, a vector-based design platform, is being highlighted for rolling out novel tools for designers.
Photomator, a robust photo editor, is streamlining photo editing workflows.
Portal, optimized for productivity, is clearing distractions by immersing users in stunning landscapes and spatial audio.
Cultural Impact

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The Cultural Impact category showcases apps with a mission to deepen connections and highlight global diversity. From taking on an inclusive approach to menopause to fighting food waste, these creations are changing the conversation and making a tangible difference.
Projects like balance, Copilot, Endling, Finding Hannah, How to Say Goodbye, Pok Pok, Proloquo, Rebel Girls, Too Good To Go, and Unpacking have made substantial contributions to our cultural discourse in the finance, food, inclusivity, and wellness spheres, and beyond.
iPhone Game of the Year

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The iPhone Game of the Year finalists were chosen for taking players on captivating adventures with rich graphics. Afterplace, Honkai: Star Rail, and Vampire Survivors take the spotlight for adding fresh dimensions to mobile gaming.
Apple Arcade Game of the Year

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In the running for Apple Arcade Game of the Year, are Cityscapes, Hello Kitty Island Adventure, and stitch., who have made gaming more immersive and enjoyable.
Intrigued to see who else might be taking home the honors? You can explore the full shortlist on Apple’s website.
[via 9to5Mac, MacRumors, Apple, images via Apple]