Every year, Apple highlights apps and games that set new standards of quality on its devices. The Apple Design Awards competition has long been one of the most prestigious events for developers creating for iPhones, iPads, Mac computers, and Apple Vision Pro. In this year's edition, projects were awarded that stood out not only in appearance but also in functionality and an innovative approach to the user. The winners were selected from 36 finalists representing various countries around the world. Among the winners were both intimate productions and large projects known to millions of users.
Apple rewards the most innovative apps and games
This year's edition of the competition included six categories, with one award given for both an app and a game in each category. In the Appeal category, the winner was the app grug, offering daily inspirations and affirmations in a minimalist form. Among games, the logical production Is This Seat Taken? triumphed, using a humorous approach to puzzle-solving mechanics. In the Inclusivity category, Guitar Wiz won, an app helping guitarists develop skills through numerous accessibility features. Among games, Pine Hearts emerged victorious, allowing individuals with diverse needs and abilities to enjoy themselves comfortably. Apple also appreciated the innovative use of its own technologies. In this category, the best app turned out to be NBA: Live Games & Scores for Apple Vision Pro, offering a new way to follow sports events. Among games, Blue Prince took the lead, combining exploration, puzzles, and an extensive narrative. The company emphasized that this year's winners demonstrate the immense potential of modern Apple platforms. The notable use of Vision Pro capabilities and new user interface solutions was particularly evident. Awarded projects prove that innovations do not have to solely rely on artificial intelligence. Equally important remain creativity, thoughtful design, and user convenience. These elements played a key role in selecting the winners.
Cyberpunk 2077 awarded by Apple. Polish production among the best
One of the most talked-about moments of this year's competition was the recognition for Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition. The production by CD Projekt won the award in the Graphics category. Apple appreciated the incredibly polished visual design and the utilisation of Apple Silicon capabilities and Metal technology. According to the company, the world of Night City stands out for its immense detail and realistic execution of characters, vehicles, and environments. This is further confirmation that modern Mac computers are increasingly handling demanding AAA games with confidence. In the same category, the Tide Guide: Charts & Tables app also claimed victory, impressing with its aesthetics and the way it presents weather data and tide information. Apple also awarded prizes for Interaction Quality and Social Impact. In the first of these categories, the Moonlitt: Moon Phase Tracker app and the game Sago Mini Jinja’s Garden were highlighted. In the second, the Primary: News in Depth app and the game Consume Me triumphed. This year's results show that Apple is increasingly promoting projects that provide valuable experiences to users, rather than just impressive technical capabilities. Applications that utilise new ways of presenting content and support accessibility play a particularly significant role today. As a result, the list of winners is exceptionally diverse and includes both utility tools and complex games.
Apple Design Awards 2026 once again recognised the most creative and polished projects available on the company's platforms. The awards went to apps and games offering innovative solutions, a high level of execution, and exceptional user experiences. A particular source of pride for Polish gamers is the success of Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition, which received a prestigious accolade for its graphics. This year's winners demonstrate that the future of apps and games developed for the Apple ecosystem looks incredibly promising.
source: apple
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