As the year concludes, Google Play has announced its annual list celebrating the most outstanding Android applications and games for 2025. This selection highlights a diverse array of creativity, utility, and innovation across various devices.
Leading the pack this year is Focus Friend, developed by Hank Green, which clinched the title of Best App of 2025. This unexpected winner stands out amidst a landscape dominated by artificial intelligence tools. Focus Friend combines a minimalistic timer with charming gamification elements, functioning as a playful productivity assistant that helps users enhance their concentration.
In the gaming category, Pokémon TCG Pocket emerged victorious, taking home the Best Game award. This app successfully translates the iconic trading card game into a mobile format, enriching the experience with stunning artwork, collectible booster packs, and a nostalgic gameplay reminiscent of its tabletop predecessor.
AI tools, while not dominating the main awards, contributed significantly to other categories. Luminar won in the multi-device Best App category, impressing with its sophisticated AI photo-editing capabilities that cater to both novice and advanced users alike. Additionally, Disney Speedstorm was awarded the multi-device Best Game title, offering exhilarating kart racing with beloved Disney characters and themed environments.
Google Play's awarding process recognized a wide array of apps in various specialized categories, demonstrating the rich diversity present in its ecosystem. The full list of additional winners includes: - Best for Fun: Edits, an app integrated with Instagram for creativity. - Best for Personal Growth: Focus Friend by Hank Green. - Best Everyday Essential: Wiser – providing 15-minute audio book content. - Best Hidden Gem: Pingo AI Language Learning. - Best for Families: ABCmouse 2: Kids Learning Game. - Best for Watches: SleepisolBio for sleep and alarm functionality. - Best for Large Screens: Goodnotes for notes and document management. - Best for Cars: SoundCloud, enabling music enjoyment on the go. - Best for XR Headsets: Calm, focusing on relaxation and meditation. - Best Multiplayer: Dunk City Dynasty. - Best Pick Up and Play: Candy Crush Solitaire. - Best Indie: Chants of Sennaar. - Best Story: Disco Elysium. - Best Ongoing: Wuthering Waves. - Best on Play Pass: DREDGE. - Best for Google Play Games on PC: Odin: Valhalla Rising.
Google's selections for 2025 reaffirm the vibrancy and extensive range of offerings within the Android ecosystem, celebrating both indie storytelling and popular game franchises , as well as a variety of productivity tools that enrich everyday life.