Key Takeaways
- Zomato’s District app won Best App 2025, while CookieRun India claimed Best Game
- 69% of Indian users had their first AI experience through Android apps
- New ‘Top Trending’ category recognized Instamart, Seekho, and Adobe Firefly
- Indian developers showed strong focus on local content and multi-device experiences
Google has revealed its 2025 Play Store Awards for India, highlighting apps and games that resonated deeply with local users through cultural connections and artificial intelligence integration. The awards demonstrate the growing maturity of India’s developer ecosystem, with winners spanning entertainment, productivity, and gaming categories.
Best Apps of 2025
Zomato’s District: Movies Events Dining secured the top spot as Best App of 2025. Toonsutra: Webtoon and Manga App was crowned Best Hidden Gem, while Daily Planner: To Do List Task won Best Everyday Essential App.
Google reported that 69% of Indian users experienced AI for the first time through Android applications. This trend was evident across categories, with invideo AI: AI Video Generator winning Best App for Personal Growth by enabling video creation from text prompts.
Beyond AI, wellness and multi-device applications also received recognition. SleepisolBio won Best App for Watches for sleep and stress management, while Goodnotes claimed Best App for Large Screens for its AI-optimized note-taking capabilities.
New Trending Category
Google introduced a Top Trending category for apps that gained significant popularity and ecosystem impact. Winners included Instamart: 10 Mins Grocery App for rapid growth, Seekho: Short Learning Videos for gamified learning, and Adobe Firefly: AI Generator for transforming art and design with generative AI.
Best Games of 2025
Krafton’s CookieRun India: Running Game achieved double honors as both Best Game of 2025 and Best Pick Up and Play. Free Fire Max received Best Ongoing Game for its deep localization and authentic audience connections.
Indian developers showcased genre diversity, with Kamala – Horror Exorcism Escape winning Best Indie game for its immersive survival puzzle experience set in 1980s rural India. Real Cricket Swipe earned Best Made in India game, while Disney Speedstorm secured Best Multi-device Game.
