In a surprise move, Apple has announced that Kino, an app for videographers, is the iPhone app of the year. Launched by Lux, the company behind the professional photography app Halide, Kino offers in-app lessons and features that help iPhone owners get more out of their cameras.
A New Era in Mobile Video Recording
Kino’s innovative approach to mobile video recording has impressed Apple’s App Store editors, making it one of the top contenders for the award. The app was launched this spring, but its impact on the world of videography is already being felt. With Kino, users can unlock their iPhone’s full potential and capture stunning footage with ease.
Other Finalists Showcased Exceptional Talent
Kino wasn’t the only standout app in the running for the top spot. Runna, an app for tailoring your running plans, and Tripsy, an app for organizing your travels, were also among the finalists. While these apps may not have taken home the award, they demonstrate the creativity and expertise that Apple values in its app developers.
AI-Powered Apps Miss Out on Top Honors
Interestingly, AI-powered apps didn’t make it to the top three finalists. This might seem surprising given the significant impact of AI technology on mobile consumers since the invention of the iPhone or App Store itself. However, Apple continues to downplay the role of AI in its awards, instead highlighting human-centric endeavors.
AI Makes an Appearance in Other Categories
While AI-powered apps may not have taken home top honors, they didn’t entirely miss out on recognition. Apps integrating with AI technology did win in other categories, including Mac App of the Year Adobe Lightroom and iPad App of the Year Moises. These apps focus more on artistic endeavors that are arguably more human-centric than those powered fully by AI.
Other Winning Apps Showcase Apple’s Devices
The winning apps highlight the versatility and creative potential of Apple’s devices. From Lumin for Apple Watch to Disney’s What If…? An Immersive Story for Vision Pro, these apps demonstrate how Apple’s technology is used by creative professionals to push boundaries and achieve innovation.
Cultural Impact Winners Recognize Outstanding Contributions
In addition to the top awards, Apple has also recognized six cultural impact winners. These apps stand out as exemplary examples of what it means to be a part of the App Store community. They include Oko, which helps blind and low-vision users navigate; EF Hello, a language learning app; DailyArt, an art exploration platform; NYT Games, a popular game; The Wreck, a cinematic and narrative game; and Do You Really Want to Know 2, an educational app for people living with HIV.
The Winners
- iPhone App of the Year: Kino
- iPad Game of the Year: Supercell’s Squad Busters
- Mac Game of the Year: Panic’s Thank Goodness You’re Here!
- Apple Vision Pro Game of the Year: Puddle’s THRASHER: Arcade Odyssey
- Apple Arcade Game of the Year: Balatro+ from Playstack Ltd.
- Cultural Impact Winners:
- Oko
- EF Hello
- DailyArt
- NYT Games
- The Wreck
- Do You Really Want to Know 2
Conclusion
The 2023 App Store Awards have once again showcased the incredible talent and creativity of app developers around the world. From Kino’s innovative approach to mobile video recording to the cultural impact winners, these apps demonstrate what it means to be a part of the Apple ecosystem.
