The end of 2025 is here, and it’s time to look back at a vibrant year for indie software.

It's been a busy year for developers. We saw 480 new apps join the catalog and tracked 13,081 version updates.

Behind those numbers were 330 developers shipping apps this year. We welcomed 248 first-time submitters, joined by 82 returning developers.

But the work didn't stop at version 1.0. Across the apps updated this year, the median app shipped 5 updates, covering bug fixes, new features, and for many, a complete redesign for iOS 26.

Developers are building for every screen. iPhone (383) led the pack, followed by iPad (231) and Mac (141). But there were plenty of new apps for the smaller platforms too: Apple Watch (45), Apple Vision (30), and Apple TV (5) saw new additions.

Productivity is still king with 82 launches. Utilities is right on its heels at 79. Health & Fitness rounded out the top three with 47 new ideas. It's clear that the community is still deeply committed to solving the practical problems of everyday life.

Activity never really stayed quiet. It peaked on September 15, 2025, the launch day of iOS 26, when the catalog recorded 14 new apps alongside 199 updates in a single day.

Thank you to everyone who shared their work, kept shipping, and made 2025 such a memorable year. If your app isn’t already in the catalog, you can add it via the submission form anytime.