Google Play Reveals 2025’s Top Apps, From Instagram Edits to Luminar

As 2025 draws to a close, Google Play has announced its annual “Best of” list, highlighting the top Android apps and games of the year. The list recognizes applications and games for their creativity, quality, and innovation, offering users a curated guide to the year’s standout digital experiences.

Google Play Names Best Apps and Games of 2025

Focus Friend by Hank Green Wins Best App

The title of Best App of 2025 has gone to Focus Friend, a gamified productivity app created by Hank Green. Focus Friend encourages users to stay on task by caring for a virtual character, known as a “Bean Friend.” During focus sessions, the Bean engages in activities like knitting, and users are rewarded for completing tasks. Interrupting a session makes the character sad, adding a unique motivational element to task management.

Pokemon TCG Pocket Crowned Best Game

For the Best Game of 2025, Google Play chose Pokemon TCG Pocket, a free-to-play mobile adaptation of the popular trading card game. Players can collect and battle digital Pokémon cards on their devices, combining strategy with the beloved Pokémon universe. This digital version offers an engaging experience for both longtime fans and new players.

Luminar: Photo Editor Wins Best Multi-Device App

The Best Multi-Device App award went to Luminar: Photo Editor, an AI-powered photo editing platform available on mobile and desktop (Luminar Neo) for Windows and macOS. Luminar leverages AI to simplify complex edits, offering tools for sky replacement, portrait retouching, noise reduction, and color enhancement. Its cross-device compatibility ensures seamless editing across mobile, tablet, and desktop environments.

Disney Speedstorm Wins Best Multi-Device Game

Disney Speedstorm earned the Best Multi-Device Game accolade. This free-to-play, hero-based kart racing combat game features characters from Disney and Pixar franchises. Players can race on themed tracks, customize their karts, and compete in local or online multiplayer modes. Google highlighted that the game is fully optimized for smooth play across PC, mobile, and tablet devices.

Other Notable App Winners

Google Play also recognized apps across various categories:

• Best for Fun: Edits (Instagram app)

• 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

Other Notable Game Winners

Similarly, Google Play highlighted top games in specific categories:

• Best Multiplayer: Dunk City Dynasty

• Best Pick Up & 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 Look Back at Previous Winners

For context, last year’s winners included Alle – AI Fashion Shopping App as Best App and Squad Busters as Best Game of 2024. Google Play has been releasing its “Best of” lists annually since 2016, honoring apps and games that demonstrate creativity, user experience, and innovation.

Significance of Google Play’s “Best of” List

The annual list provides users with a curated guide to standout digital content, showcasing apps and games that enhance productivity, entertainment, and creativity. It also serves as recognition for developers who push the boundaries of mobile technology and engage users with innovative experiences.