40 Must-Have iPad Apps for Work, Creativity, Health, Social Media, and More in 2025

In 2025, iPads and iPad Apps continue to dominate the tablet market, offering an unrivaled combination of portability, power, and versatility. Whether you’re using your iPad for productivity, creativity, fitness, or communication, there’s an app designed to enhance your experience. With millions of apps available on the App Store, it can be overwhelming to decide which ones are worth downloading.

In this guide, we’ve compiled a list of 40 essential iPad apps across various categories, including productivity apps, social media apps, fitness and health apps, photo and video editing apps, and more. These apps are designed to help you work smarter, stay fit, and get the most out of your device. If you’re searching for the best apps for iPad 2025, or wondering which apps are perfect for your creative needs, this comprehensive list will help you discover some of the top-rated apps currently available.

For creative professionals, apps like Procreate, Affinity Photo, and LumaFusion allow for detailed design, photo editing, and video production, bringing your artistic visions to life with ease. These apps are designed to take full advantage of the iPad’s touchscreen capabilities, Apple Pencil support, and powerful hardware, making them the go-to choices for anyone serious about their craft. On the other hand, apps like Adobe Lightroom and VSCO are excellent for photographers looking to enhance their photos with professional-grade editing tools.

When it comes to staying organized and productive, apps like Notion, Microsoft Office, and Google Docs provide the essential tools for creating and managing documents, tasks, and notes. These productivity apps are perfect for students, professionals, and anyone who needs to keep their workflow organized. For those who need more specific solutions, apps like Evernote, Trello, and Microsoft OneNote are perfect for note-taking, managing projects, and collaborating with others.

In the realm of fitness and wellness, apps like MyFitnessPal, Nike Training Club, and Headspace are popular for tracking workouts, meditation, and overall health. With features like real-time progress tracking, guided workout routines, and mindfulness practices, these apps cater to a variety of health-conscious users. Whether you’re looking to stay active, manage your diet, or practice meditation, these fitness apps are designed to make your iPad your personal fitness assistant.

For those who spend a lot of time on social media, apps like Facebook, WhatsApp, Twitter, and Slack keep you connected with friends, colleagues, and communities. Whether you’re sending messages, sharing posts, or collaborating on work projects, these apps make social communication easy and seamless. The integration across different platforms allows for instant messaging, video calls, and content sharing, making them indispensable tools for modern communication.

Lastly, if you’re planning your next vacation or trip, apps like Google Maps, Airbnb, and TripIt offer navigation, accommodation booking, and itinerary management all in one place. With real-time updates, easy-to-use interfaces, and personalized recommendations, these travel apps will make your journeys smoother and more enjoyable.

With so many fantastic apps available, it’s clear that the iPad is not just a tablet—it’s a powerful device capable of transforming how you work, create, communicate, and stay healthy. Discover the best apps for 2025 in this curated list and start maximizing your iPad experience today. Whether you’re into photo editing, note-taking, fitness tracking, or social media, these apps are sure to improve your productivity and creativity. Don’t miss out on the best iPad apps available right now!

1. Digital Art & Design for iPad Apps 

2. Procreate

• App Store Link
• Platform Availability: iPad only

Special Benefits:

• Comprehensive brush library with customizable options.
• High-resolution canvases up to 16k by 4k.
• Intuitive gesture controls for seamless workflow.
• Time-lapse recording to showcase your process.
• Streamlined interface optimized for touch input.

2. Affinity Designer

• App Store Link
• Platform Availability: iPad, macOS, Windows

Special Benefits:

• Vector and raster design tools in one app.
• Real-time performance with no lag.
• Unlimited artboards for versatile design layouts.
• Advanced typography controls for precise text styling.
• Supports a wide range of file formats, including PSD.

3. Adobe Fresco

• App Store Link
• Platform Availability: iPad, Windows

Special Benefits:

• Extensive collection of vector and raster brushes.
• Live brushes that mimic real oil and watercolor effects.
• Integration with Adobe Creative Cloud for seamless workflow.
• Multi-layer support with masking capabilities.
• Time-lapse export to showcase your artwork creation.

4. ArtRage Vitae

• App Store Link
• Platform Availability: iPad, macOS, Windows, Android

Special Benefits:

• Realistic painting tools like oils, watercolors, and pencils.
• Canvas texture customization for authentic feel.
• Tracing and reference image support for accurate artwork.
• Layer blending modes for complex compositions.
• Export options in various formats, including PSD.

5. Clip Studio Paint

• App Store Link
• Platform Availability: iPad, macOS, Windows, Android

Special Benefits:

• Specialized tools for comics and manga creation.
• Vector layers for scalable line art.
• 3D models to assist with complex poses and perspectives.
• Extensive material library with patterns and backgrounds.
• Animation features for creating motion graphics.

2. Note-Taking & Annotation
3. Notability

• App Store Link
• Platform Availability: iPad, macOS

Special Benefits:

• Combines handwriting, typing, audio recordings, and photos.
• Multi-note feature to work on two notes side by side.
• PDF annotation with a variety of tools.
• Auto-backup to cloud services like Google Drive and Dropbox.
• Searchable handwriting for easy information retrieval.

2. GoodNotes

• App Store Link
• Platform Availability: iPad, macOS

Special Benefits:

• Advanced handwriting recognition and search functionality.
• Customizable digital notebooks with various paper templates.
• Seamless organization with folders and bookmarks.
• Import and annotate PDFs with ease.
• Syncs across devices via iCloud.

3. OneNote

• App Store Link
• Platform Availability: iPad, macOS, Windows, Android

Special Benefits:

• Free-form canvas for typing, drawing, and clipping web content.
• Real-time collaboration with multiple users.
• Integration with Microsoft Office suite.
• Tagging system for efficient organization.
• Available across multiple platforms for seamless access.

4. Evernote

• App Store Link
• Platform Availability: iPad, macOS, Windows, Android

Special Benefits:

• Web clipping to save articles and webpages.
• Document scanning with automatic edge detection.
• Task management with reminders and to-do lists.
• Synchronization across all devices.
• Integration with third-party apps like Google Drive and Slack.

5. Apple Notes

• App Store Link
• Platform Availability: iPad, macOS (native app, pre-installed)

Special Benefits:

• Seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem.
• Supports rich text formatting and attachments.
• Collaborative features for shared note-taking.
• Secure notes with password protection and Face ID/Touch ID.
• Quick note creation from the lock screen or Control Center.

3. Reading & Media Consumption
4. Apple Books

• App Store Link
• Platform Availability: iPad, macOS (native app, pre-installed)

Special Benefits:

• Seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem for a unified experience.
• Large collection of eBooks, audiobooks, PDFs, and more.
• Personalized recommendations based on reading history.
• Syncs reading progress across devices via iCloud.
• Rich media support for multimedia books (e.g., interactive books).

2. Kindle

• App Store Link
• Platform Availability: iPad, macOS, Windows, Android

Special Benefits:

• Access to Amazon’s vast eBook and audiobook library.
• Adjustable text size and background color for comfortable reading.
• Whispersync syncs your reading position across devices.
• Highlights, bookmarks, and note-taking features.
• Integrates with Audible for audiobooks.

3. Scribd

• App Store Link
• Platform Availability: iPad, macOS, Windows, Android

Special Benefits:

• Unlimited access to a massive library of eBooks, audiobooks, and articles.
• Personalized recommendations based on your reading habits.
• Offline reading support for downloaded content.
• Integration with social media to share and discover content.
• Searchable library and content bookmarking features.

4. OverDrive

• App Store Link
• Platform Availability: iPad, macOS, Windows, Android

Special Benefits:

• Borrow eBooks and audiobooks from local libraries.
• Wide selection of books in various genres.
• Syncs reading position across devices via your library account.
• Adjustable reading settings, including font size and background color.
• Integration with library accounts for easy borrowing and management.

5. Pocket

• App Store Link
• Platform Availability: iPad, macOS, Windows, Android

Special Benefits:

• Save articles, videos, and web pages for offline reading.
• Personalized content recommendations based on your reading habits.
• Text-to-speech feature for listening to saved content.
• Tagging system to organize and categorize saved items.
• Syncs content across devices, making it easy to access saved content anywhere.

4. Video & Photo Editing
5. LumaFusion

• App Store Link
• Platform Availability: iPad

Special Benefits:

• Professional video editing with multi-track timeline support.
• Supports 4K video editing with advanced color grading tools.
• Real-time playback and effects with no lag.
• Extensive library of transitions, effects, and audio tools.
• Export videos in various formats and resolutions.

2. Adobe Lightroom

• App Store Link
• Platform Availability: iPad, macOS, Windows, Android

Special Benefits:

• Advanced photo editing tools with non-destructive edits.
• RAW photo editing support for detailed adjustments.
• AI-based features for quick enhancements and fixes.
• Syncs editing progress across devices via Creative Cloud.
• Integration with Adobe Creative Cloud apps for seamless workflow.

3. Affinity Photo

• App Store Link
• Platform Availability: iPad, macOS, Windows

Special Benefits:

• Professional photo editing tools, including advanced retouching features.
• Non-destructive editing with adjustment layers.
• Extensive brush library and customizable brushes.
• Supports PSD files and other popular file formats.
• High-speed performance with no lag.

4. iMovie

• App Store Link
• Platform Availability: iPad, macOS (native app, pre-installed)

Special Benefits:

• Easy-to-use video editing with drag-and-drop interface.
• Pre-designed themes and trailers for quick creation.
• 4K video editing support with basic trimming and effects.
• Built-in soundtracks and sound effects for enhanced audio editing.
• Integration with the Apple ecosystem for seamless sharing.

5. VSCO

• App Store Link
• Platform Availability: iPad, macOS (via iOS apps on M1 and later), Android

Special Benefits:

• High-quality filters and presets for quick photo enhancement.
• Advanced editing tools with curves and HSL adjustments.
• RAW photo editing support for professional-grade edits.
• Syncs edits across devices, including mobile and tablet.
• VSCO community for sharing and discovering creative work.

5. Productivity & Office Tools
6. Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

• App Store Link
• Platform Availability: iPad, macOS, Windows, Android

Special Benefits:

• Access and edit Word, Excel, and PowerPoint files.
• Full cloud integration with OneDrive for easy document syncing.
• Collaborative features for team-based document editing.
• Compatible with other Office apps and legacy formats.
• Real-time editing and commenting in shared documents.

2. Google Docs

• App Store Link
• Platform Availability: iPad, macOS, Windows, Android

Special Benefits:

• Real-time collaboration with team members on documents.
• Offline mode for editing documents without an internet connection.
• Automatic syncing to Google Drive.
• Voice typing for hands-free document creation.
• Extensive formatting options with support for images and tables.

3. Notion

• App Store Link
• Platform Availability: iPad, macOS, Windows, Android

Special Benefits:

• All-in-one workspace for notes, tasks, and databases.
• Powerful templates to customize and organize projects.
• Real-time collaboration and sharing with team members.
• Offline access to your notes and content.
• Integration with other tools like Google Drive and Slack.

4. Evernote

• App Store Link
• Platform Availability: iPad, macOS, Windows, Android

Special Benefits:

• Capture and organize all types of notes, documents, and web clippings.
• Tagging and searching tools for easy content retrieval.
• Syncs notes across devices for easy access on the go.
• Collaboration tools for sharing and editing notes with teams.
• Handwriting recognition and drawing tools.

5. Trello

• App Store Link
• Platform Availability: iPad, macOS, Windows, Android

Special Benefits:

• Visual project management with Kanban boards and lists.
• Easy task assignment and progress tracking with color-coded labels.
• Real-time collaboration and sharing with team members.
• Power-ups for integration with tools like Slack and Google Drive.
• Customizable board backgrounds for better organization.

6. Health & Fitness
7. MyFitnessPal

• App Store Link
• Platform Availability: iPad, macOS (via web), Android, Windows (via web)

Special Benefits:

• Track food intake and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
• Extensive database of foods for easy tracking.
• Syncs with fitness trackers like Fitbit and Apple Watch.
• Provides personalized health insights based on your goals.
• Barcode scanner for easy food logging.

2. Headspace

• App Store Link
• Platform Availability: iPad, macOS (via web), Android

Special Benefits:

• Guided meditation and mindfulness sessions.
• Sleepcasts and relaxation techniques to improve sleep.
• Personalized meditation plan based on goals.
• Stress-reduction exercises and breathing techniques.
• Integration with Apple Health for tracking wellness metrics.

3. Nike Training Club

• App Store Link
• Platform Availability: iPad, macOS (via web), Android

Special Benefits:

• Access to a library of workout routines for various fitness levels.
• Personalized workout recommendations based on your goals.
• Video and audio instructions for proper exercise form.
• Track workout progress and achievements.
• Integration with Nike Run Club for a full fitness experience.

4. Calm

• App Store Link
• Platform Availability: iPad, macOS (via web), Android

Special Benefits:

• Guided meditation and breathing exercises for relaxation.
• Sleep stories and soundscapes for better sleep.
• Mindfulness programs for reducing anxiety and stress.
• Progress tracking with personalized recommendations.
• Integration with Apple Health to track meditation minutes.

5. Strava

• App Store Link
• Platform Availability: iPad, macOS (via web), Android, Windows (via web)

Special Benefits:

• Track running, cycling, and other fitness activities.
• Community features to follow friends and join challenges.
• Detailed performance stats like pace, speed, and elevation.
• Goal-setting and progress tracking for motivation.
• Integration with other fitness devices and apps.

7. Communication & Social Media
8. WhatsApp

• App Store Link
• Platform Availability: iPad (via WhatsApp Web), macOS, Windows, Android

Special Benefits:

• End-to-end encrypted messaging for secure communication.
• Group chats with file sharing and media support.
• Voice and video calling with high-quality performance.
• Cross-platform support for iPhone, Android, and web.
• Status updates for sharing images, text, and videos with contacts.

2. Facebook

• App Store Link
• Platform Availability: iPad, macOS (via web), Windows, Android

Special Benefits:

• Social networking with status updates, photos, and videos.
• Event creation and invitation tools for organizing social gatherings.
• Marketplace for buying and selling items locally.
• Messenger integration for text and video communication.
• News feed to follow and interact with friends, groups, and pages.

3. Twitter

• App Store Link
• Platform Availability: iPad, macOS (via web), Windows, Android

Special Benefits:

• Real-time updates on news, trends, and personal interests.
• Tweeting, retweeting, and commenting on posts.
• Hashtags to discover and participate in trending topics.
• Direct messaging for private conversations.
• Integration with photos, videos, and GIFs in posts.

4. Slack

• App Store Link
• Platform Availability: iPad, macOS, Windows, Android

Special Benefits:

• Team communication and collaboration via channels and direct messages.
• File sharing and seamless integration with other tools.
• Searchable conversation history for easy reference.
• Customizable notification settings to stay updated.
• Integration with productivity tools like Google Drive and Trello.

5. Discord

• App Store Link
• Platform Availability: iPad, macOS, Windows, Android

Special Benefits:

• Real-time voice and text communication for communities.
• Server-based structure for organizing discussions.
• Screen sharing and video calls with high-quality performance.
• Integration with gaming platforms like Steam and Xbox.
• Community features for managing roles and permissions.

8. Travel & Navigation
9. Google Maps

• App Store Link
• Platform Availability: iPad, macOS (via web), Android, Windows (via web)

Special Benefits:

• Accurate navigation and real-time traffic updates.
• Offline map support for areas with poor reception.
• Integration with local business listings and reviews.
• Street View for a virtual tour of destinations.
• Public transportation directions and schedules.

2. Apple Maps

• App Store Link
• Platform Availability: iPad, macOS (native app, pre-installed)

Special Benefits:

• Seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem.
• Turn-by-turn navigation with real-time traffic updates.
• Indoor maps for airports and shopping centers.
• Supports flyover feature for aerial views of landmarks.
• Integration with Siri for voice-guided directions.

3. Waze

• App Store Link
• Platform Availability: iPad, macOS (via web), Windows, Android

Special Benefits:

• Real-time traffic updates from a community of drivers.
• User-reported hazards and accidents for safer driving.
• Routing around traffic jams for faster travel.
• Voice-guided navigation with customizable voices.
• Alerts for speed cameras and road closures.

4. TripIt

• App Store Link
• Platform Availability: iPad, macOS (via web), Android, Windows (via web)

Special Benefits:

• Automatically imports travel details from your email.
• Create detailed itineraries for flights, hotels, and activities.
• Sync travel plans across multiple devices.
• Share travel plans with friends and family.
• Real-time flight alerts and status updates.

5. Airbnb

• App Store Link

• Platform Availability: iPad, macOS (via web), Android, Windows (via web)

Special Benefits:

• Book unique accommodations, including homes and experiences.
• Detailed search filters to find the perfect place.
• Messaging system for communicating with hosts.
• Reviews and ratings for transparent decision-making.
• Instant booking and calendar syncing with hosts.