If you think you’ve truly utilised the Apple Watch’s capabilities, think again. A plethora of native and third-party applications, available on App Store go a long way in fine-tuning the world’s foremost piece of wearable tech to make it a better health device and organising tool.

The Best Apple Watch Apps of 2025, according to GQ

1. Strava

This is a pretty obvious one. Cyclists swear by Strava as much as motorists swear at cyclists. Strava remains one of the best apps for the Apple Watch because it blends clean, intuitive tracking with a powerful social layer that keeps you motivated. Its precise GPS data, seamless workout syncing and real-time metrics make training feel smarter, while segments, challenges and community kudos gamify every run or ride. It turns the watch into a genuinely engaging fitness ecosystem.

2. Nike Run Club

If you’re newer to running or you like structured training with motivation built-in, Nike Run Club is one of the best free apps. It provides guided runs, coaching plans and an Apple Watch experience where you can cue workouts, track runs and get audio guidance. Guided runs, pace alerts and heart-rate prompts deliver structure without fuss, while adaptive training plans keep you progressing. Add in badges, streaks and smooth integration with Apple Fitness, and NRC becomes a motivating, data-rich companion that makes everyday miles feel purposeful.

3. Structured

Structured is a quietly brilliant app because it turns chaotic to-do lists into a clean, visual timeline you can actually follow. By blending tasks with your calendar, it helps you plan your day realistically rather than aspirationally. The Apple Watch support means you can access your calendar via quick glances, gentle nudges, and effortless check-offs make staying on track feel intuitive, not stressful.

4. MoneyCoach

A fitness-app is one thing, but a watch app to sort out your finances? Turns out it  might be just the thing for the attention deficient. MoneyCoach is a great Apple Watch app because it brings financial awareness to your wrist in quick, digestible snapshots. Its clean interface lets you track budgets, spending categories and savings goals without diving into your phone. Smart notifications curb impulsive purchases, while daily limits keep you accountable. It’s a subtle but effective tool for building healthier money habits through timely, glanceable insights.

5. Headspace

Headspace is better than the Apple Watch’s own Meditation app because it brings structure, personality and variety to mindfulness. Where Apple offers simple breathing and reflection timers, Headspace delivers guided sessions, themed courses and evolving routines tailored to stress, sleep or focus. Its coaching style feels more intentional and human, helping you build lasting habits instead of relying on the same repetitive prompts.

6. Workout

Arguably the single biggest game-changer and one of the best Apple watch apps when it comes to fitness apps, the Apple Watch’s native “Workout” app has gamified personal health metrics, helping millions of wearers get in better shape. Offering metrics for a variety of workouts, from walking, high-intensity workouts to weight lifting, cycling, swimming and more, it’s accurate assessment of calorie burn, easy-to-operate interface means you don’t have to look at third-party apps for your everyday workouts, be they indoors or outdoors.

7. iTranslate

iTranslate is a great Apple Watch app because it puts quick, reliable communication on your wrist when context matters most. With simple voice input and fast translations, it helps you navigate travel, directions and casual conversations without reaching for your phone. Offline support and saved phrases add convenience, while its clean interface keeps interactions discreet. It’s a pocket-sized language bridge for everyday situations.