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Before it happens Worldwide Developers Conference 2025 (WWDC), Apple announced the winners and finalists of its Design Awards 2025, highlighting mainly independent apps and startups. This year, the Apple awarded 12 winners — one app and one game for each of the six categories: Delight and Fun, Innovation, Interaction, Inclusion, Social Impact and Visuals and Graphics. See below the winning apps in each category! 6m3d68
Delight and fun 712nl
The category Delight and fun highlights apps and games that transform the use of technology into an enjoyable, engaging and surprising experience. Here, the focus is on providing joy and enchantment through creative interactions, intuitive design and details that awaken sensory pleasure — such as smooth animations, striking sounds and tactile responses.
CapWords 2i6d2n
Compatible with: iPhone, iPad
CapWords turns language learning into a visual and sensory game. With a simple and brilliant approach, the app allows s to take photos of real objects, which instantly transform into animated and interactive stickers with their names in the target language. It is an innovative and fun approach, especially effective for children and beginners, as it connects language to the world around them in an intuitive and playful way.
The use of real-world sounds, charming animations, and smooth transitions creates a memorable experience that perfectly fits the concept of “delight and fun.” The CapWords shows how technology Apple can be used to transform simple moments into practical and enjoyable learning — all with an interface that is accessible on devices iPhone and iPad.
Balatro h5q2a
Compatible with: iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV, Apple Vision Pro
Balatro mixes strategy, retro aesthetics and accessible and dynamic gameplay in one of the most addictive games of the year. It is a deckbuilder that combines poker cards with special skills, where the player must build the best possible hand to overcome increasing challenges. In each round, the game surprises with unpredictable combinations and strategic decisions that test the player's creativity.
The arcade-inspired visual charm, pulsating soundtrack and exciting pace make Balatro a fun and almost hypnotic experience. Optimized for iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV and Apple Vision Pro, the game benefits from the graphical performance of Apple devices, providing smooth transitions, incredible effects and impeccable response time — elements that make the fun even more intense and immersive.
Inclusion 4u506o
The category Inclusion recognizes experiences that embrace diverse s and expand access to technology for all. Winners stand out for adopting accessible design practices that respect different physical, cognitive, linguistic, and cultural needs. Whether through captions, adapted navigation, compatibility with Apple accessibility features, or respect for identity, these apps and games demonstrate that technology is only truly innovative when it is inclusive.
speechify 652n4s
Compatible with: iPhone, iPad, Mac
speechify is a text-to-speech reader that transforms written content into audio in a clear, natural and accessible way. Designed especially for people with dyslexia, reading difficulties or visual impairments, the app converts web pages, documents and entire books into speech with realistic voices, adjustable in speed and tone. It is a powerful tool for democratizing access to knowledge and information.
Compatible with iPhone, iPad and Mac, speechify uses Apple's advanced accessibility features masterfully. In addition to helping s with specific needs, it also offers a new way of consuming content for everyone, promoting inclusion through technology and reinforcing the principle that good design is that which serves everyone.
Art of Fauna 3r1k3
Compatible with: iPhone, iPad
Art of Fauna is a calm and meditative puzzle game that invites players to explore nature and design with an inclusive and accessible lens. The game has been carefully designed with accessibility in mind: it features colorblind-friendly color palettes, a clear text interface, intuitive gameplay, and for assistive navigation.
Playing in the iPhone or iPad, s of all profiles find a safe, welcoming and stimulating space. The sensitive and empathetic approach shows that it is possible to offer a visually rich experience without compromising accessibility. Art of Fauna is an ode to inclusion through design — where everyone can play, relax, and enjoy the beauty of the natural world.
Innovation 6y124e
Em Innovation, the award goes to apps that fully exploit the potential of Apple hardware and software, incorporating advanced features such as machine learning, augmented reality or motion sensors in a creative and functional way. These are experiences that surprise not only for what they do, but for how they do it — paving the way for the future of digital design.
Play 175z2z
Compatible with: iPhone, iPad, Mac
O Play is a revolutionary design tool tailored for mobile app designers. Unlike other traditional solutions, Play combines a familiar design interface with native features of the iOS, such as SwiftUI elements, animations with Core Animation and direct access to device hardware Apple . With this, it is possible to create realistic and functional prototypes directly on the iPhone ou iPad, with a fluidity that reflects exactly what the will see in the final app. All this without giving up a refined visual experience that is highly integrated into the ecosystem. Apple .
The proposed Play goes beyond visual prototyping: it allows you to test real behaviors, complex interactions, and access native materials — all in real time, whether on the Mac or iPhone. The created design can be sent directly to Xcode, maintaining consistency and accelerating development. By bringing together design, prototyping and validation in a single platform, Play not only streamlines workflows, but also ushers in a new era for mobile app design — more agile, faithful, and accessible to professionals at all levels.
PBJ — The Musical 1w1a3c
Compatible with: iPhone, iPad, Mac
PBJ — The Musical is an interactive adventure that combines music, storytelling and exploration in a playful and enchanting universe. Created to be a playable musical, the app uses the sensors of Apple devices, spatial audio and dynamic animations to create a unique sensory and creative experience. Each gesture and movement of the contributes to the melody and rhythm of the story, deeply involving them in the construction of the show.
Available to iPhone, iPad and Mac, the game uses technologies such as Metal, Core Animation and Apple's audio frameworks to deliver a fluid and surprising experience. PBJ It's not just a game — it's a testament to how innovation can transform the way we interact with music, story, and technology, creating a new kind of interactive artistic expression.
Interaction 2c5f17
The category Interaction awards apps with digital experiences that stand out for their fluidity and intelligence in the way s connect to content. The winners here demonstrate excellence in building intuitive interfaces, quick responses and efficient navigation. Each gesture, touch or movement is designed to make the experience natural, enjoyable and perfectly integrated into the Apple environment, reinforcing the value of a -centered design.
Taobao 3j3o65
Compatible with: iPhone, iPad, Apple Vision Pro
O Taobao stands out for transforming a complex e-commerce platform into a fluid browsing experience. With impeccable architecture, the app integrates a wide variety of products and services with intuitive and highly responsive interactions. The interface is rich in movement and transition effects, but always fluid, allowing the to explore offers, videos and personalized recommendations naturally. The attention to detail in gestures and touches makes the purchasing process pleasant and efficient.
The integration with the apple vision pro takes the experience to another level, allowing s to explore virtual storefronts in an immersive and interactive environment. Already on devices iOS and iPadOS, the use of smooth animations, haptic and clever shortcuts demonstrates a deep understanding of the interaction language of Apple . Taobao proves that even in applications with a large volume of content, excellent interaction can be the key to keeping the engaged.
DREDGES 6j6o5j
Compatible with: Mac, iPad
DREDGES is an adventure game that combines simple mechanics with a mysterious atmosphere. The player takes on the role of a lone fisherman who sails uncharted seas while discovering dark secrets hidden beneath the waters. The gameplay is extremely well balanced, with responsive controls and an intuitive inventory system that works perfectly with both mouse and touch. iPad.
Navigation is fluid, menus are clean and clear, and the experience is carefully designed to keep the focus on the engaging storyline. The slow but tense pace reinforces the ambiance and creates a connection with the player. In DREDGES, the interaction is not only efficient — it is a fundamental part of the narrative construction, which makes it an exemplary choice within the category.
Social impact 2c1h3w
Social impact recognizes apps and games that promote positive change in the world. Winners in this category go beyond functionality: they inspire, educate and mobilize, whether through relevant content, for marginalized communities or solutions to social and environmental challenges. These are creations that use the power of design and technology to generate awareness and transformation.
Watch Duty: Wildfire Maps 2w2k27
Compatible with: iPhone, iPad
O Watch Duty provides a vital service to communities affected by wildfires. The app provides real-time alerts, maps, and accurate updates from authorities and volunteers, enabling residents, first responders, and families to make informed decisions quickly. The interface is clear and functional, with accurate geographic views and relevant information highlighted, ensuring usability even in emergency situations.
Its impact goes beyond technology: it is a public safety tool, built on a commitment to the common good. The app demonstrates how technology can save lives when put to the service of urgent causes. Compatibility with iPad ensures access is fast and portable, even in the field. Watch Duty is an example of how design and purpose can work together effectively.
Neva 3v3471
Compatible with: Mac, iPad
Neva is an artistic journey that speaks to loss, connection, and healing through powerful visual storytelling. The game centers on the relationship between a young girl and a spirit wolf in a world suffering from environmental destruction. The art direction is beautiful and serves as a vehicle for deep reflections on ecology and human bonds.
Throughout the game, the player experiences visual and musical transformations that reflect the stages of the story. More than entertainment, Neva provokes empathy and social awareness — and does so with impeccable aesthetics. Its compatibility with Mac e iPad allows the audience to experience the story with graphic clarity and tactile fluidity on iOS platforms.
Visuals and Graphics 423l10
In the category Visuals and graphics, the focus is on the aesthetic refinement and visual strength of digital experiences. The winners impress with their refined use of typography, color, illustration, animation and composition. Each visual element is designed to complement the functionality, conveying personality and emotion. These apps show how graphic design can be not only beautiful, but essential to creating an immersive and memorable experience.
Feather: Draw in 3D 5g5m3o
Compatible with: iPad, Apple Pencil
Feather takes creativity into three-dimensional space with an interface that is both powerful and accessible. The app lets you draw in 3D intuitively, using the Apple Pencil with high precision to create shapes that float in space. The sense of depth, fluid response to gestures and smooth visual effects contribute to an immersive, almost magical experience.
Ideal for both professionals and beginners, the Feather impresses with its graphical capabilities and ease of use. With real-time renderings and precise camera and brush control, the app shows the potential of iPad as a cutting-edge creative tool. Its visual richness and fluidity of interaction make it a shining example of what is possible when hardware and software are seamlessly integrated.
Infinity Nikki 5c3165
Compatible with: iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV, Apple Vision Pro
Infinity Nikki is a true showcase of graphic design and visual expression in the gaming universe. Part adventure, part fashion fantasy, the game immerses the player in richly illustrated worlds, with textures, lighting and animations that border on the cinematic. The protagonist explores different magical kingdoms, changing clothes with special powers in stunning and lively settings.
Graphics quality remains impressive across all Apple devices — whether on the iPhone, in the immersion of the apple vision pro or in the fluidity of Apple TV and iPad. The attention to detail in fabrics, landscapes and visual effects positions Infinity Nikki as a benchmark in next-generation graphics. It is a celebration of aesthetics as a fundamental part of the experience.
What about you? Have you used one of these award-winning apps? Apple Design Awards 2025? Tell us Comment!
See also:
Sources: Apple Developer e TechCrunch.
Text proofread by: Daniel Coutinho in 04 / 06 / 2025
