Google Play has wrapped up the year with its annual Best of 2025 awards, celebrating the most impactful, innovative and enjoyable apps and games across the Android ecosystem. This year’s winners reflect a balanced mix of creativity, utility, AI-powered experiences and emerging cross-device design trends.
Focus Friend Wins Best App of 2025
In a surprise to many, Focus Friend by Hank Green clinched the Best App of 2025 title, beating out several AI-heavy productivity contenders. The app blends a soothing minimalist focus timer with an adorable digital companion, gently gamifying productivity without the pressure typically associated with time-management tools. Its combination of mental wellness, simplicity and charm resonated strongly with users and Google’s editorial team alike.
Pokémon TCG Pocket Named Best Game
On the gaming front, nostalgia reigned supreme. Pokémon TCG Pocket, a mobile-first adaptation of the beloved trading card experience, earned the Best Game of 2025 award. With striking card artwork, collectible booster packs and faithful gameplay design, the title won over fans of both classic Pokémon TCG and modern mobile gaming.
AI and Multi-Device Innovation Shine
Advanced AI tools and multi-device applications also stood out.
- Luminar, the multi-device Best App, impressed with its AI-driven photo-editing capabilities tailored for both beginners and professionals.
- Disney Speedstorm took home the multi-device Best Game award, bringing fast-paced kart racing with Disney characters to phones, tablets and Chromebooks.
The results underline Google’s growing emphasis on seamless cross-device experiences as Android expands beyond phones.
Full List of Additional Winners
Google Play also highlighted excellence across niche categories:
- Best for Fun: Edits
- Best for Personal Growth: Focus Friend
- Best Everyday Essential: Wiser – 15 Minute Audio Books
- Best Hidden Gem: Pingo AI Language Learning
- Best for Families: ABCmouse 2
- Best for Watches: SleepisolBio
- Best for Large Screens: Goodnotes
- Best for Cars: SoundCloud
- Best for XR Headsets: Calm
- 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
A Strong Year for Creativity and Cross-Platform Design
Google Play’s 2025 awards once again highlight the depth and diversity of the Android universe — from cosy productivity tools and indie gems to blockbuster franchises and AI-powered apps. The ecosystem continues to expand, innovate and surprise, offering something for every kind of user.
