Google Play Celebrates the Best Apps and Games of 2025
As we approach the dawn of 2026, tech giants are beginning to reflect on the past year. Among the earliest to unveil their highlights is Google, which has announced the winners of the Google Play Best of 2025 awards.
A Showcase of Top Android Apps
This year’s awards spotlight the best Android apps and games available on Google Play, categorized across various themes. Categories include personal development, large screen optimization, hidden gems, and innovative experiences for cars and more. Below are the standout winners in the app category for the United States:
| Category | App |
|---|---|
| Best App | Focus Friend by Hank Green |
| Best Multi-device App | Luminar: Photo Editor |
| Best for Fun | Edits, an Instagram app |
| Best for Personal Growth | Focus Friend by Hank Green |
| Best for Everyday Essentials | Wiser – 15 Minute Audio Books |
| Best Hidden Gem | Pingo AI Language Learning |
| Best for Families | ABCmouse 2: Kids Learning Game |
| Best for Watches | SleepisolBio: sleep, alarm |
| Best for Large Screens | Goodnotes: Notes, docs, PDF |
| Best for Cars | SoundCloud: The Music You Love |
| Best for XR Headsets | Calm – Sleep, Meditate, Relax |
Winning Games of 2025
In addition to apps, Google has also revealed the top games in various categories for 2025. Here are the winners in the games segment for users in the United States:
| Category | Game |
|---|---|
| Best Game | Pokémon TCG Pocket |
| Best Multi-device Game | Disney Speedstorm |
| Best Multiplayer | Dunk City Dynasty |
| Best Pick Up & Play | Candy Crush Solitaire |
| Best Indie | Chants of Sennaar |
| Best Story | Disco Elysium |
| Best Ongoing | Wuthering Waves |
| Best of Play Pass | DREDGE |
| Best for Google Play Games on PC | Odin: Valhalla Rising |
Global Recognition and Developments
In a bid to cater to a wider audience, Google has also announced localized lists for the Google Play Awards 2025 in countries such as India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, and Taiwan. This year, the Android app store has introduced several enhancements, including personalized features, access to games on PC, and a new gift card store.
In response to security concerns, Google has implemented mandatory developer verification for all Android apps distributed through its platform, including those outside of Google Play, although it has offered some concessions to advanced users following criticism.
For a comprehensive view of the best apps and games of 2025, you can check out Google’s official announcement here.
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