- Google distributes awards to the 10 best Android applications of the year
- Both popular apps and little-known newcomers were awarded
- Elections were judged in a variety of different categories.
As 2025 comes to a close (yes, really), Google has started handing out awards for the best Android apps available in its Google Play Store. Gongs honor the best efforts of developers around the world and highlight the best experiences you can get on some of the best Android phones.
Here, we look at all of Google’s award-winning apps, along with the categories in which each winner received an award. If you’ve been looking for something new to try on your Android device, this is a great place to start.
1. Best Overall App: Focus Friend by Hank Green
Is distraction a way of life for you and concentration remains frustratingly out of reach? If so, try Focus Friend by Hank Green. This handy app has a variety of ways to help you stay on track and Google describes it as one that “helped us all disconnect to reconnect.”
In addition to the Best Overall App award, it also won in the Best for Personal Growth category, marking a double victory for the app’s creator.
2. Best multi-device app: Luminar: Photo Editor
Who needs a computer to perfect their photographs? Android phones are powerful enough to meet your image editing needs these days, and one app that helps make it a reality is Luminar: Photo Editor.
With professional-grade tools, artificial intelligence (AI), and an intuitive interface, it simplifies anything you throw at it.
3. Best for fun: Edits, an Instagram app
Getting your videos ready for social media is an easy task with Edits, which promises to give you everything you need to produce share-worthy clips right on your phone.
It’s also free to get started, and with over 10 million downloads and an average review score of 4.5 stars, it’s clearly a beloved option for Instagram fans.
4. Best for everyday life: Wiser: 15-minute audiobooks
What do you want to hear today? With Wiser, there’s a world of audiobooks available to you, from beloved classics to newly released titles.
If you’re not sure where to start, Wiser provides 15-minute summaries that break down all the key topics in a book, while its personalization algorithm ensures there’s always something on hand to pique your interest.
5. Best hidden gem: language learning with Pingo AI
AI has a wide range of uses when it comes to Android apps, and Pingo demonstrates this aptly.
This app integrates AI into the world of language learning, allowing you to chat with an AI bot that responds to your feedback and adapts the conversation to your pace and skill level. The result is an app that learns with you while guiding you toward confidence and fluency.
6. Best for Families: ABCmouse 2 – Learning Game for Kids
Do you want to help your child learn outside of the classroom? ABCmouse could be just what you are looking for.
Their collection of free games, books, videos, and songs is carefully curated for kids ages 2 to 8, helping them explore topics including math, science, art, music, and more. It is loved by parents and children alike, making learning fun for everyone involved.
7. Best for Watches: SleepisolBio – Sleep, Alarm
Getting a good night’s sleep is incredibly important for all aspects of life, but many of us struggle to ensure we get deep sleep on a regular basis. SleepisolBio is designed to correct that and it does so through a combination of AI analysis and audio therapy that can help you relax and fall asleep at the end of the day.
Put your smartwatch to good use and you might be able to put your sleep problems behind you once and for all.
8. Best for Large Screens: Goodnotes – Notes, Documents, PDFs
Goodnotes has been a well-loved app for years, so it’s no surprise that Google recognizes it. Whether you’re taking notes, organizing your documents, or looking to increase your productivity, it’s a great option.
This is doubly true on a large screen, where its well-made interface and powerful tools really stand out. From students to professionals, it is appreciated by a wide variety of people.
9. Best for Cars: SoundCloud
SoundCloud is a great place to discover new tunes, with communities of music lovers listening, interacting, and spreading the word.
When it comes to Android Auto, SoundCloud is a real winner, with a clear interface and simple controls that ensure your focus stays on the road while you enjoy your favorite tunes. Its rival apps could learn a thing or two.
10. Best for XR Headphones: Calm – Sleep, Meditate, Relax
Mixed reality headsets have been big news in recent years, and if you’ve jumped into the world of virtual reality and augmented reality, there are plenty of great Android apps at your disposal.
Google’s pick is Calm, and it takes advantage of the immersive nature of XR devices to envelop you in an anti-stress environment that could help you focus, sleep and relax like never before.
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