The Essential Apps for Creators: Insights from the 2025 Webby Awards
In a bid to uncover the secrets of successful content creation, Mashable posed a simple yet thought-provoking question to a dozen digital innovators at the 2025 Webby Awards: What’s the one app no creator should live without? The responses, though varied, revealed some striking commonalities. At the forefront of these conversations was the emphasis on editing on the go. Creators unanimously agreed that polished content is paramount, with apps like CapCut, Snapseed, Lightroom, and Canva being staples in their creative processes.
Beyond the editing suite, creators highlighted the importance of staying inspired and organized. Visual brainstorming platform Pinterest and the humble Notes app were cited as essential tools for idea generation and task management. As Caleb Simpson, known for his intriguing interviews with New Yorkers about their rent, aptly put it, "You need to write your thoughts down and make sure you have your to-do list." This sentiment underscores the value of digital tools in facilitating creativity and productivity.
The conversation also touched on the often-overlooked aspect of mental space. Even the most prolific creators need a digital breather, whether it’s through zoning out with Block Puzzle or finding serenity with Calm. This acknowledgment of the importance of mental wellness in the creative process is a telling insight into the holistic approach many creators are now adopting.
Predictably, TikTok emerged as a indispensable app for many, with three out of the 12 creators citing it as their go-to platform. Given its unparalleled ability to facilitate trending content and virality, it’s little wonder that TikTok has become an essential component of many creators’ arsenals. Whether for editing, inspiration, organization, mental wellness, or viral success, the myriad apps available to creators today are undoubtedly transforming the landscape of content creation.
As the digital world continues to evolve, one thing is clear: the right apps can make all the difference in a creator’s journey to success. By leveraging these tools effectively, creators can refine their craft, stay inspired, and connect with their audiences in meaningful ways. As we look to the future of content creation, one thing is certain – the apps that creators can’t live without will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the digital narrative.
