Indian-developed Guitar Wiz bags Apple Design Award 2026

An Indian app has emerged among the winners of Apple’s 2026 Design Awards. Guitar Wiz, created by Bengaluru-based developer Bijoy Thangaraj, won in the Inclusivity category, earning a place alongside some of the world’s most recognised apps and games. Apple announced the winners on Tuesday ahead of its annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC).

The Guitar Wiz app is designed as a companion for guitar learners and players, bringing together tuning, chord recognition and practice tools. Apple said the app stood out for the way it incorporates accessibility features such as VoiceOver, Dynamic Type and spoken guidance, allowing more users to learn and play the instrument independently.

Every year, Apple recognises design and innovation in the app development and gaming space. This year’s winners were selected from 36 global finalists who all delivered exceptional app experiences. One app and one game were recognised across six categories, including Delight and Fun, Inclusivity, Innovation, Interaction, Social Impact, and Visuals and Graphics.

“This year’s Apple Design Award winners are a remarkable reflection of how developers are creating exceptional experiences,” said Susan Prescott, Apple’s vice president of Worldwide Developer Relations. “Whether delivering intuitive features or exciting gameplay, these apps and games represent the very best of what our platform makes possible. We are incredibly proud to celebrate these developers and are grateful for their commitment to enriching the lives of people everywhere.”

The other winners

 Delight and Fun: grug (App, Netherlands)

A tongue-in-cheek app that delivers personal advice and reflections through a deliberately simple, humorous style.

Is This Seat Taken? (Game, Spain)

A puzzle title built around everyday social situations, where players must figure out the best seating arrangements in different settings.

Inclusivity: Pine Hearts (Game, United Kingdom)

An exploration game set around a campsite, recognised for accessibility options that make the experience available to a wider range of players.

Innovation: NBA: Live Games & Scores (App, United States)

The NBA’s official app, which Apple highlighted for creating a more immersive way to follow live games, scores and statistics.

Blue Prince (Game, United States)

A puzzle-adventure game in which the layout of a mysterious mansion changes with every run, forcing players to rethink their strategy.

Interaction: Moonlitt: Moon Phase Tracker (App, Italy)

An astronomy app that presents lunar cycles, celestial events and sky data through a clean and intuitive interface.

Sago Mini Jinja’s Garden (Game, Canada)

A children’s game centred on discovery and creativity, encouraging young users to interact with a virtual garden.

Social Impact: Primary: News in Depth (App, United Kingdom)

A news app focused on helping readers understand complex stories through context, analysis and visual storytelling.

A narrative game that examines modern pressures around identity, achievement and self-worth through an interactive storyline.

Visuals and Graphics: Tide Guide: Charts & Tables (App, United States)

A marine forecasting app that presents tide and navigation data in a visually rich and highly detailed format.

Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition (Game, Poland)

The acclaimed role-playing game from CD Projekt Red, recognised for its graphics, world-building and visual presentation on Apple platforms.