ChatGPT has been making waves in the digital world, currently holding the top spot on the iPhone App Store in the U.S. However, it didn't claim the prestigious title of Apple's iPhone app of the year. Instead, that honor went to Kino, a relatively new app designed specifically for videographers. Launched this spring by Lux, the company behind the renowned professional photography app Halide, Kino is revolutionizing mobile video recording with its in-app lessons and unique features that empower iPhone owners to extract the maximum potential from their cameras.

Uncover the iPhone App Store's Hidden Gems

Kino: The New Star in Mobile Video Recording

Kino stands out as one of the three finalists for the top App Store award. Alongside Runna, an app for customizing running plans, and Tripsy, an app for organizing travels, Kino has made its mark. This app integrates in-app lessons that guide videographers through various techniques and features, helping them enhance their video production skills. For instance, users can learn how to capture stunning shots in different lighting conditions or edit videos with professional-level effects. The fact that Kino is able to offer such valuable resources directly within the app makes it a game-changer for iPhone users who are passionate about video.Moreover, Kino's features are designed to be intuitive and accessible. It doesn't require users to have extensive prior knowledge of video editing or cinematography. Instead, it provides a seamless learning experience that allows beginners to pick up the basics quickly and start creating professional-looking videos. This approach has attracted a large user base, as more and more iPhone owners are realizing the potential of their devices with the help of Kino.

AI in the App Store: A Mixed Bag

While AI-powered apps didn't make the cut for the iPhone app finalists, it turns out that AI couldn't be completely ignored. Apps integrating with AI technology did win in other categories. For example, Adobe Lightroom, the Mac App of the Year, boasts several AI features that enhance photo editing. Moises, the iPad App of the Year, offers AI tools for musicians, allowing them to create and produce music with greater ease. These apps focus more on artistic endeavors that are centered around human creativity rather than being fully powered by AI chatbots. This aligns with Apple's goal of showcasing how its devices are used by creative professionals.However, it's important to note that the integration of AI in these apps is not meant to replace human creativity. Instead, it serves as a tool to enhance and assist the creative process. For instance, in Moises, the AI tools can provide suggestions for chord progressions or help musicians experiment with different musical styles. This combination of human creativity and AI technology creates a unique and powerful experience for users.

Other Winning Apps: A Diverse Range

The App Store Awards also saw other notable winners. Apple Watch App of the Year went to Lumy, which offers a range of features and functionalities to enhance the user experience on the Apple Watch. Apple TV App of the Year was F1 TV, providing fans with an immersive viewing experience of Formula 1 races. Disney's What If…? An Immersive Story won the Apple Vision Pro App of the Year category, taking users on a captivating journey through different fictional scenarios.In the gaming category, AFK Journey was named iPhone Game of the Year, offering players an engaging and immersive adventure. Supercell's Squad Busters won the iPad Game of the Year, providing intense multiplayer battles. Panic's Thank Goodness You're Here! was crowned Mac Game of the Year, with its unique gameplay and storytelling. Puddle's THRASHER: Arcade Odyssey took the Apple Vision Pro Game of the Year title, offering a thrilling arcade experience. The Apple Arcade Game of the Year was Balatro+ from Playstack Ltd.

Cultural Impact Winners: Making a Difference

App Store editors also selected six cultural impact winners, representing other standout apps that Apple wanted to honor. Oko helps blind and low-vision users navigate with ease, providing them with a sense of independence and freedom. EF Hello, a language learning app, enables users to expand their linguistic horizons and connect with people from different cultures. DailyArt is an art exploration app that allows users to discover and appreciate art from around the world. NYT Games, a popular app, offers a wide range of engaging games that keep users entertained and informed. The Wreck, a cinematic and narrative game, tells a compelling story that touches the hearts of players. Do You Really Want to Know? 2, an educational app for people living with HIV, provides important information and support.These cultural impact winners showcase the diverse range of apps available on the App Store and their ability to make a positive impact on people's lives. Whether it's through accessibility, education, or entertainment, these apps demonstrate the power of technology to bring people together and enrich their lives.