Podcast Title: All TWiT.tv Shows (Audio)
Episode: iOS Today 731: App Store Award Finalists 2024
Release Date: December 12, 2024
Hosts: Micah Sargent and Rosemary Orchard
Introduction
In this episode of iOS Today, hosted by Micah Sargent and Rosemary Orchard, the hosts delve into the App Store Award Finalists 2024. These awards, curated by the App Store editors, highlight the most outstanding applications and games across various Apple platforms. Unlike the innovative showcases from Apple's Worldwide Developer Conference (WWDC), these finalists represent apps that resonate with users and editors alike, whether through longevity, popularity, or unique functionality.
iPhone App of the Year Finalists
1. Kino
Description: Kino is a professional video recording app developed by the team behind the popular Halide photo app. It allows users to capture cinematic video in log format and apply LUTs (Look-Up Tables) for color grading, offering tools that professional filmmakers use such as time codes and multiple viewfinders. Additionally, Kino includes built-in lessons to help users enhance their video production skills.
Quote:
Rosemary Orchard [06:59]: "It's a great app and I've met the developers and they're lovely people..."
2. Runa
Description: Runa is a comprehensive running and training plan app available for $99 in the App Store. It customizes training programs for runners aiming to improve speed, distance, or prepare for events like marathons. The app integrates with fitness trackers like Strava and offers strength and conditioning routines, making it an all-in-one tool for both casual and serious runners. Its compatibility with Apple Watch enhances the user experience by providing real-time progress updates on the wrist.
Quote:
Micah Sargent [07:35]: "It's better over here now."
3. Tripsy
Description: As a privacy-focused alternative to TripIt, Tripsy is a travel planner that organizes flights, hotels, restaurants, and tours in one place. It imports reservations from over 700 providers, syncs with calendar apps, and allows users to email itineraries. Tripsy's clean interface and emphasis on privacy make it a preferred choice for travelers who are mindful of data sharing.
Quote:
Rosemary Orchard [11:22]: "I really like Tripsy. I use Tripsy and TripIt. Tripsy is more for the fun side of the plans..."
iPhone Game of the Year Finalists
1. AFK Journey
Description: AFK Journey is a role-playing game set in the fantasy world of Esperia. Players solve puzzles, engage in battles against creatures, and follow a captivating storyline reminiscent of titles like Kingdom Hearts and Final Fantasy.
2. The Were Cleaner
Description: This stealth game combines humor and adventure as players control Kyle, a janitor who is also a werewolf. Balancing his day job with nocturnal instincts, players must navigate the night shift without revealing Kyle's true nature, using stealth to avoid detection while managing his wolf tendencies.
3. Zenless Zone 0Z3
Description: An anime-style RPG, Zenless Zone 0Z3 features extensive cutscenes, turn-based strategy elements, and character upgrades. Players embark on an immersive journey, battling enemies and developing their heroes in a richly animated world.
iPad App of the Year Finalists
1. Bluey. Let’s Play
Description: Designed for children, Bluey. Let’s Play is an educational game that fosters creativity and exploration. Based on the beloved Australian TV show "Bluey," it offers simple, frustration-free gameplay that helps kids develop hand-eye coordination and problem-solving skills.
Quote:
Rosemary Orchard [15:44]: "It's on the educational side of things versus pure entertainment..."
2. Moises
Description: Moises is a musician's companion app that uses AI to separate vocals and instruments from any song. It offers features like AI chord detection, pitch and speed adjustments, and AI lyric transcription, making it ideal for performers and learners who want to practice and create their renditions of favorite tracks.
Quote:
Micah Sargent [16:13]: "It's really cool for that. And it's called Moises."
3. Procreate Dreams
Description: An extension of the renowned Procreate suite, Procreate Dreams focuses on 2D animation, allowing users to create rich animations and storytelling videos. With timeline controls, drawing tools, and seamless integration with other Procreate apps, Procreate Dreams offers a robust platform for both amateur and professional animators. Priced at a one-time purchase of $20, it provides excellent value without the need for subscriptions.
Quote:
Rosemary Orchard [18:37]: "Procreate Dreams is about creating rich 2D animations which you turn into videos for storytelling..."
iPad Game of the Year Finalists
1. Assassin’s Creed Mirage
Description: Ubisoft's Assassin’s Creed Mirage brings the iconic action-adventure experience to the iPad. Staying true to the franchise, it offers immersive gameplay adapted for the iPad's touchscreen, allowing players to explore expansive environments, engage in combat, and follow the storied narrative on-the-go.
2. Disney Speedstorm
Description: Disney Speedstorm is a racing game featuring beloved Disney and Pixar characters. Players can race as Elsa, Joy, Buzz Lightyear, and others across various tracks, each with unique advantages and special powers, adding a strategic layer to the high-speed fun.
3. Squad Busters
Description: Squad Busters is a multiplayer online battle game akin to titles like Brawl Stars and Clash Royale. Players team up with others to compete in real-time battles, collecting gems and strategizing to dominate the map.
Mac App of the Year Finalists
1. Adobe Lightroom
Description: Adobe Lightroom continues to dominate as a premier photo editing tool on the Mac. Its robust features for photo management and editing take full advantage of the Mac’s superior display quality, offering professionals and enthusiasts alike a powerful platform for their photographic endeavors.
2. Shapr3D
Description: Shapr3D is a CAD modeling app that allows users to create and edit 3D models with precision. Ideal for designers and engineers, it offers intuitive tools for 3D printing and modeling, seamlessly integrating with other design software.
3. OmniFocus 4
Description: OmniFocus 4 is a task management app praised for its powerful features that help users stay organized and productive across multiple Apple devices, including Mac, iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, and Vision Pro. Features like deferred dates, automation, and robust shortcut support make it indispensable for users seeking to streamline their workflow.
Quote:
Rosemary Orchard [25:34]: "I wouldn’t have shown up today on time for the show if it wasn’t for Omnifocus..."
Mac Game of the Year Finalists
1. Frostpunk 2
Description: Frostpunk 2 is a strategy game where players build and manage a city amidst an icy apocalypse. The goal is to sustain civilization by making critical decisions to ensure the survival of its inhabitants under harsh conditions.
2. Stray
Description: Stray is a charming adventure game that lets players navigate as a cat in a dystopian world. The game emphasizes exploration and interaction, offering a unique perspective and engaging storyline.
3. Thank Goodness You're Here
Description: A comedic adventure from Panic, Thank Goodness You're Here follows a traveling salesman who navigates various social interactions. The game is lauded for its delightful writing and engaging narrative.
Apple Arcade Game of the Year Finalists
1. Balatro Plus
Description: Balatro Plus combines elements of solitaire and poker in a deck-building card game. Players battle against a dealer boss, adjusting game rules dynamically to strategize their wins. Available exclusively through Apple Arcade, it offers a fresh take on traditional card games with no ads and offline support.
Quote:
Rosemary Orchard [29:36]: "I have played it a bit and I do enjoy it..."
2. Outlanders 2
Description: Outlanders 2 is a role-playing strategy game where players build and sustain a growing city. It emphasizes resource management and strategic planning, building upon the foundations of its predecessor with enhanced features and deeper gameplay.
3. Sonic Dream Team
Description: Sonic Dream Team brings the beloved Sonic franchise to Apple Arcade, allowing players to control characters like Sonic, Amy, Tails, and Knuckles through various stages and boss battles, including iconic foes like Dr. Eggman.
Apple Vision Pro Categories
Apps
- J: An app that allows users to view and interact with 3D models, enhancing visualization and design processes.
- NBA Live Games and Scores: Offers a virtual space to watch live games with multiple screens for player stats and live updates.
- What If?: An immersive storytelling app based on Disney’s "What If" series, allowing users to explore alternate realities within the Marvel universe.
Games
- Luna: A puzzle game designed for relaxation, utilizing the VisionOS platform to offer a calming experience.
- Thrasher Arcade Odyssey: A psychedelic rhythm game that engages users with vibrant colors and interactive motions.
- Vacation Simulator: From the creators of Job Simulator, this adventure game provides a humorous and immersive virtual vacation experience.
Apple Watch App of the Year Finalists
1. Look Up English Dictionary
Description: This app provides an English dictionary directly on the Apple Watch, featuring word of the day widgets and easy access to definitions. It's designed to enhance vocabulary and language skills conveniently from the wrist.
Quote:
Rosemary Orchard [36:30]: "It is a really nice pretty app to help everybody improve their vocabulary."
2. Lumi
Description: Lumi is an essential tool for photographers, offering information on sunrise, sunset, and the golden hour directly on the Apple Watch. It integrates as a complication, providing real-time updates to photographers without the need to check their phones.
Quote:
Rosemary Orchard [36:30]: "I personally do really like Lumi and I use it quite a bit."
3. Watch to 5k
Description: Inspired by the Couch to 5k program, Watch to 5k is a running app that guides users through a nine-week training plan. It integrates with Apple Health, offers virtual achievements, and provides spoken alerts and haptics for pace guidance, all without requiring a phone during runs.
Quote:
Rosemary Orchard [36:30]: "It's really great... the ideal running app as far as I am concerned."
Apple TV App of the Year Finalists
1. Dropout by CollegeHumor
Description: Dropout features a range of humorous content including game shows and Dungeons & Dragons actual play shows. It leverages CollegeHumor's unique comedic style to offer entertaining streaming content.
2. F1TV
Description: F1TV allows users to stream Formula One races on Apple TV. The app integrates with iPhone cameras for enhanced viewing and provides comprehensive coverage of races.
3. Zoom App
Description: The Zoom app on Apple TV enables users to conduct video conferences on the larger screen, facilitating virtual meetings and gatherings with enhanced display capabilities.
Cultural Impact Finalists
These apps and games stand out for their efforts to make a positive difference through donations, storytelling, and raising awareness on various issues.
1. Arko
Description: A tactical action RPG from Panic, Arko involves making decisions that shape the game's world, emphasizing the impact of player choices.
2. The Bear
Description: An interactive bedtime experience, The Bear guides players through a serene story about friendship and cooperation, designed to soothe and calm.
3. Better Sleep
Description: This app aids users in achieving better sleep through white noise, green noise, and other calming sounds, integrating seamlessly with Apple Health.
4. Daily Art
Description: Daily Art provides users with a new piece of art every day, along with information about the artist and the artwork's history, fostering daily cultural enrichment.
Quote:
Micah Sargent [46:58]: "Without ads, none of this would be possible..."
Conclusion
Micah Sargent and Rosemary Orchard wrap up the episode by encouraging listeners to stay tuned for the announcement of the winners in the coming weeks. They also highlight the importance of community feedback, inviting listeners to suggest apps or games they believe deserved recognition.
Quote:
Micah Sargent [48:05]: "Tell us about it. I want to hear which one you think should have been there."
Additionally, the hosts promote Club TWiT, offering a free two-week membership for ad-free access to their shows, exclusive content, and participation in live events like Micah's Crafting Corner.
Quote:
Micah Sargent [51:06]: "Join us for crafting... Club TWiT offers two weeks free for a limited time."
Final Thoughts
This episode of iOS Today provides a comprehensive overview of the App Store Award Finalists 2024, showcasing a diverse range of applications and games across Apple's ecosystem. From professional video tools and educational games to immersive VR experiences and productivity apps, the finalists highlight the innovation and user-centric design flourishing within the App Store. Whether you're a developer seeking inspiration or a user looking for the next outstanding app, this episode is a valuable guide to the best of 2024's App Store offerings.