Apple has announced its finalists for the 2024 “iPhone App of the Year” award, and once again, artificial intelligence (AI) apps are notably absent from the spotlight. The list highlights traditional apps that enhance specific user experiences, such as professional video recording (Kino), customized running plans (Runna), and travel organization (Tripsy). Popular AI-driven apps like ChatGPT, Anthropic’s Claude, Microsoft Copilot, and AI-powered content creation tools did not make the cut for this prestigious category.
Despite its collaboration with OpenAI’s ChatGPT for Siri improvements, Apple has not recognized the app with any year-end accolades. This omission is surprising given ChatGPT’s innovative 2024 updates, such as an Advanced Voice Mode and a web search feature designed to compete with Google. ChatGPT, which became the fastest-growing consumer app in history by reaching 100 million users in early 2023, continues to feature prominently in App Store and Google Play recommendations but remains overlooked in award categories.
Similarly, Google’s app of the year recognition went to Partiful, a party-planning app, bypassing ChatGPT and other AI-driven tools.
While AI-powered apps did appear in some of Apple’s other 2024 award categories, their presence was minimal. Notable mentions include:
Moises: An app using AI tools for music practice, nominated for iPad App of the Year.
Adobe Lightroom: Featuring AI-powered enhancements, nominated for Mac App of the Year alongside productivity and design apps.
EF Hello: A language-learning app highlighted for its AI features, listed among Cultural Impact finalists.
Other apps, like Pinterest, may use AI behind the scenes, but their marketing does not position them as AI-centric.
Apple’s finalist selection seems to favor apps that prioritize human creativity and user-driven tasks over AI automation. Many of the highlighted apps empower users to design, organize, or create without relying heavily on AI assistance. For instance, Kino, developed by the makers of the Halide camera app, aims to improve videography skills, while other apps help users maximize their devices for productivity and creativity.
This trend reflects Apple’s focus on apps that enhance how users interact with their iPhones and other devices, rather than those relying on AI for automation or support.
This year, Apple introduced a new category for the Apple Vision Pro, which will feature separate winners for apps and games, further diversifying its awards.
