Apple and Google have both revealed their top apps and games for 2023, with social platform and activity tracking tool AllTrails taking home the title of iPhone App of the Year, while educational tool Imprint: Learn Visually was named as the best app on Google Play. On the gaming front, both Apple and Google agreed on Honkai: Star Rail as their Game of the Year.
These annual “best of” lists not only generate interest around fresh apps and games but also reflect the app marketplaces’ state, what the platforms wish to celebrate, and what consumers have gravitated towards in the past year. What’s interesting this year is that Apple steered away from promoting new apps or those taking advantage of recent technological releases. Instead, their finalists for iPhone app of the year included established favorites like the language learning app Duolingo and travel app Flighty, alongside AllTrails. Despite typically highlighting trendsetting apps in previous years, it’s also worth mentioning that Apple and Google did not choose an AI app as the app of the year.
Another interesting twist is that Apple’s cultural winners excluded an AI app, despite the widespread impact of AI on today’s culture. However, they did acknowledge generative AI as the trend of the year and grouped generative AI apps accordingly. Similarly, Google showcased a different approach by featuring “multi-device” apps, selecting Spotify as the best multi-device app. Additionally, Google allowed users to cast their votes for their favorite apps, where ChatGPT emerged as the User’s Choice App of the Year.
Similarly, Google recognized app and game developers with individual accolades and honorable mentions, including the social platform and activity tracking tool AllTrails, reaffirming its status as iPhone App of the Year according to Apple. Best games selected by Google include MONOPOLY GO! and Farlight 84.
It’s interesting to note that both Apple and Google decided not to name an AI app as its best app of the year, despite ChatGPT’s meteoric rise in popularity. Both platforms also highlighted apps that promote personal growth, fun, everyday essentials and mindfulness, illustrating a broad range of interests.
The overall selection of the best apps and games for 2023 signal the market’s evolution and what realm resonates with different audiences.
