Google Play has concluded 2025 with its prestigious annual awards, celebrating the most exceptional Android applications and games that have captured users' attention worldwide. The tech giant unveiled its carefully selected winners for the year, highlighting a diverse mix of creative innovation, practical utility, and seamless cross-device functionality.
Surprise Winners Take Top Honors
In what many industry observers consider this year's most unexpected victory, Focus Friend by Hank Green claimed the coveted title of Best App of 2025. This achievement stands out remarkably in a year largely dominated by artificial intelligence tools. Google's selection committee opted for this gentler, gamified productivity companion that effectively merges a minimalist focus timer with the engaging appeal of a digital pet.
Meanwhile, the Best Game award went to a significantly more established franchise. Pokémon TCG Pocket secured the premier position as Google Play's favorite game of 2025, successfully translating the beloved trading card experience to mobile platforms. The game has impressed users and critics alike with its emphasis on striking visual artwork, collectible booster packs, and faithful recreations of classic gameplay mechanics.
Artificial Intelligence Makes Strategic Impact
While AI-focused applications didn't capture the top prize, artificial intelligence technology certainly made its presence felt across other important categories. Luminar, which earned the multi-device Best App winner distinction, impressed Google's judging panel with its sophisticated AI-powered photo-editing suite designed to appeal to both casual users and professional editors.
In the gaming sphere, Disney Speedstorm claimed the multi-device Best Game trophy, delivering exhilarating kart racing action that substitutes Nintendo's famous mascots with iconic Disney characters and memorable settings from Disney's extensive universe.
Comprehensive List of Additional Winners
Google recognized numerous other outstanding applications across specialized categories, effectively showcasing the expansive diversity within the Play Store ecosystem. This year's additional award recipients include:
- Best for Fun: Edits, a creativity application linked with Instagram
- Best for Personal Growth: Focus Friend by Hank Green
- Best Everyday Essential: 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
- 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 2025 winners list once again demonstrates the remarkable variety and depth available within the Android ecosystem, celebrating everything from independent storytelling projects to blockbuster franchise entries and comforting productivity tools that help users manage their daily lives more effectively.
