#Japan #Niigata #ChatGPT #App Ape #OMRON Connect

App Ape Award 2025: Celebrating Top Apps

The App Ape Award 2025, hosted by Fuller Inc. in Niigata, Japan, has recently unveiled its winners from the app analysis service, App Ape. This event, which celebrates the most beloved apps chosen by users, is now in its tenth iteration since its inception in 2017.

What is the App Ape Award?

The App Ape Award recognizes mobile applications that have significantly resonated with users. Through an extensive analytical approach, Fuller Inc. utilizes data from approximately 50,000 Android apps to determine the most popular choices among users before presenting the esteemed awards.

Selection Process & Criteria

The selection process for the awards is rigorous. As of November 30, 2025, the awards encompassed 1,456 apps from App Ape that had a minimum of 100,000 monthly active users (MAU). These apps were evaluated based on average monthly user counts, growth rates, active ratios, and store review ratings, which were then quantified and analyzed for comparative scoring. From this, the most outstanding apps were identified and awarded.

Winner of the Grand Prize: ChatGPT (OpenAI)

The Grand Prize for the App Ape Award 2025 was awarded to ChatGPT, renowned for its remarkable growth and user adoption in 2025. With the highest net increase in MAU among eligible applications, ChatGPT symbolizes the rapid proliferation of generative AI technology in everyday life, achieving significant milestones across both Android and iOS platforms.

Winner's Comment

Seiji Sasaki, GTM Leader at OpenAI Japan, expressed his gratitude, stating: "We are honored to receive recognition for ChatGPT’s striking growth in MAU. The endearing nickname 'Chappie' that users have naturally adopted reflects how well the app integrates into daily routines. We remain committed to enhancing user experience and safety to ensure that ChatGPT remains a trusted tool for learning, work, and creativity."

Special Award: Rookie of the Year - Workman Official App

The Rookie of the Year Award went to the Workman Official App, launched between January and November 2025, which quickly became popular among users. The app consistently exceeded user growth expectations while maintaining a robust retention rate.

Winner's Comment

Yuta Ogiwara, Marketing Manager at Workman, conveyed appreciation, saying, “Receiving the Rookie of the Year award is a tremendous honor for us. We aimed to create a bridge between our customers and stores, providing timely information and excitement for in-store visits, and we’re grateful for the positive reception.”

Special Award: Growth Game Award - Block Blast (Hungry Studio)

Block Blast, recognized for its substantial user growth trajectory and favorable store reviews, claimed the Growth Game Award for 2025. Its engagement and enjoyment from users marked it as one of the top mobile games of the year.

Winner's Comment

Jason Wang, VP of Brand Marketing at Hungry Studio, mentioned: “We pride ourselves on delivering intuitive and enjoyable puzzle experiences. We will continue to adapt and localize our strategy to enrich the gaming experience for our players in Japan.”

Other Notable Awards

• - DX Award: OMRON Connect from Omron Healthcare emphasizes user engagement through an app that integrates diverse health management devices, showcasing prolific retention and user engagement levels.
• - DX Award: Jihanpi by Suntory Beverage Solutions stands out for its consumer-friendly and efficient vending experience facilitated through a seamless app interface.
• - Local App Award: Hokuyo Bank App and 16 Bank App were honored for their significant growth in monthly active users and stellar review ratings specific to their regional markets.

Future Initiatives

In the upcoming weeks, interviews with key figures from the awarded companies will be published along with insights into the evolving app market. A special website and the App Market White Paper 2025 will also be available for further exploration of market trends.

Learn More: App Ape Award 2025 Special Website
Reserve Your Copy: App Market White Paper 2025 Here

About App Ape

App Ape is an analytics service by Fuller Inc., providing in-depth user behavior data on smartphone applications. It engages over 500 businesses, offering critical insights for market research and app development based on real user interaction data.