App Store Hidden Gems Prove Great Software Still Thrives in the AI Era
Despite fears that AI agents might reduce the need for standalone apps, the App Store is booming with creative and innovative releases – new iOS app launches increased by 80% year-over-year in Q1 2026, partly thanks to AI-assisted coding.
The Resurgence of Apps in the Shadow of AI
While some tech observers predict that AI agents will make apps obsolete by handling tasks directly, the App Store tells a different story. Recent data shows a 60% global increase in new app launches across both the Apple App Store and Google Play in Q1 2026 compared to the previous year, with iOS alone seeing an 80% jump. Part of this growth is attributed to AI coding tools that enable faster development and allow newcomers to enter the app ecosystem.
Although there are legitimate concerns that AI-generated apps might clutter the store with low-quality content, many interesting apps still stand out. Many of them use AI under the hood but don't market themselves as AI-powered. Here are some of the hidden gems highlighted by TechCrunch.
Albo – Social Bookmark Savior
Albo (formerly Sortd) helps users save content from social media. When you share a link to the app, it automatically extracts details, categorizes, and stores the idea – even if the original post is deleted. It supports Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Pinterest, X, LinkedIn, Threads, Reddit, Facebook, and browsers like Chrome and Safari. Screenshots can also be added. The app is free with subscription options for advanced features. Available on iOS and Android.
Coop – Local Food Marketplace
Following a parasite outbreak in the US, consumers are more concerned about food origins. Coop offers a neighborhood marketplace where you can buy homemade and homegrown items directly from locals. Sellers receive orders and prepare them for pickup. Payments are handled via Stripe. Available on iOS and Android.
PI.FYI – Old Internet Vibe
PI.FYI is a colorful, chaotic app that promises to bring back the old internet, where recommendations come from friends rather than algorithms. Users can track their interests, share taste, browse categories, create lists, find local tips, and play games. Available on iOS and Android.
Lettre – Digital Pen Pals
Lettre is a letter-writing app that lets you start friendships with pen pals worldwide. Currently, letters are sent digitally, but a physical mail option is planned. Available on iOS.
Sofa Time – TV & Movie Tracker
Sofa Time fills the gap left by the shuttered TV Time app. It offers a clean interface for tracking shows and movies, organizing watchlists, and getting release reminders. Social features include GIF reactions and built-in translation. Available on iOS and Android.
ThingsBook – Life Logging App
ThingsBook is a writing-focused app from Naver's US subsidiary. It's not an indie project but provides a flexible space for journaling, collecting ideas, and structuring lists of books, travels, meals, hobbies, and goals. Available on iOS and Android.
Pressed Petals – Virtual Herbarium
Pressed Petals, created by designer Cynthia Chen, transforms flower photos into pressed specimens resembling vintage botanical journals. It automatically saves location, date, and identifies the flower. Two flowers are free; full access costs $4.99. Available on iOS.
Moods Faster – Quick Mood Logging
Moods Faster lets you log your mood to Apple Health in two taps – one to select, one to save. You can log current mood or overall daily mood, and optionally add context. The subscription is $1.95 per month. Available on iOS.
Activate Fitness – Screen Time for Exercise
Originally designed for kids, Activate Fitness now includes the whole family. It allows users to earn screen time by completing physical activities. Available on iOS.
