On November 18, 2025, Google unveiled its selection of the top apps and games available on the Play Store in India for the year. This announcement highlighted a significant trend: the increasing reliance on AI-enhanced applications, with 69% of Indian users reporting their initial encounters with AI through mobile apps on their Android devices.
Highlights from the Best of 2025
Leading the pack, the app District: Movies Events Dining was awarded the title of ‘Best App of 2025,’ while CookieRun India: Running Game took home the title of ‘Best Game of 2025.’ The rise of AI has notably influenced the success of various applications, including invideo AI: AI Video Generator, recognized as the Best for Personal Growth, and Toonsutra: Webtoon & Manga App, which was celebrated as the Best Hidden Gem for its innovative AI tools that transform original comics into immersive experiences.
Other noteworthy mentions include Goodnotes: Notes, docs, PDF, acclaimed as the Best App for Large Screens, and Luminar: Photo Editor, which earned the title of Best Multi-device App. The Daily Planner: To Do List Task was recognized as the Best Everyday Essential for its effective task management integration, while SleepisolBio: sleep, alarm was highlighted as the Best for Watches app, aiding users in managing sleep and stress.
Google also introduced the Top Trending category, showcasing apps that have experienced remarkable growth and impact over the year. Leading this list was Instamart: 10 Mins Grocery App, followed by Seekho: Short Learning Videos and Adobe Firefly: AI Generator.
Economic Impact and Gaming Innovations
According to Google, the Play and Android ecosystem has been a significant contributor to India’s economy, generating over ₹4 trillion in revenue and creating more than 3.5 million jobs across the nation. In the gaming sector, CookieRun India: Running Game not only secured the title of Best Game but also earned recognition as the Best Pick Up and Play game. Free Fire Max was acknowledged as the Best Ongoing Game, fostering authentic connections with local audiences through culturally relevant in-game content.
Additionally, Kamala, Horror Exorcism Escape, was honored as the Best Indie Game, offering players a unique survival puzzle horror experience. Real Cricket Swipe, celebrated as the Best Made in India game, along with CookieRun India: Running Game, has simplified gameplay with short swipes, making them accessible to a broader audience. Meanwhile, Disney Speedstorm showcased its versatility as the Best Multi-device Game, performing seamlessly across various devices, including foldable phones.
