Each year, Apple releases a list of the best apps and games for iPhone, Mac, Apple TV, and the Apple Watch. And 2021 is no exception.

You might not recognize some of the apps and games, but Apple has decided that they deserve the coveted crowns. These awards are given to apps that are of exceptional quality, as decided by Apple itself.

Check out the top apps and games of 2021 and see if you recognize any. And if not, what better time to try them out for yourself.

What Are the Best Apps of 2021, According to Apple?

As outlined in Apple's press release, these apps were chosen as they helped connect us to new experiences, helped us enjoy our personal passions, and helped us have fun.

According to Apple CEO Tim Cook, these apps sparked the “creativity and passion of millions of users around the world”.

Related: Why Do People Care That Apple's Tim Cook Owns Cryptocurrency?

Here are Apple's top apps for 2021:

What Are the Best Games of 2021, According to Apple?

Apple has also released a list of the best games. According to Apple, these games were chosen due to their rich storylines and incredible graphics.

Apple's Trend Winners of 2021

With some of us still having to stay distant from those we care about, Apple noted that the trend of the year was "Connection". Therefore, Apple’s trend-winner apps are apps that brought us closer together.

The trend winners are:

Toca Life World Wins After 10 Years on the App Store

For many, the most-watched category every year is the iPhone app of the year. This year, Toca Life World took the crown after 10 years of being in the App Store. This is the first time a children’s app took the top spot.

While many might not be aware of Toca Life World, it has continued to rank as one of the top apps in the Education category, making its victory a much-deserved one.