Swift Student Challenge 2026: Notable Apps That Deserve Recognition

Apple recently announced the winners of the 2026 Swift Student Challenge, rewarding them with prizes and an invitation to Apple Park during WWDC. While only a limited number of entries could win, several impressive projects stood out for their creativity and purpose. These apps highlight how young developers continue to push boundaries using Apple’s tools.



Morris Richman, a student from UC Santa Cruz, developed Teddy, a voice controlled camera app designed for users with touch related accessibility challenges. The app uses Apple Foundation Models and speech tools to allow users to take photos through voice commands.




Morris said, “There is a strong overlap between those who have touch issues and those who have difficulty learning accessibility focused features such as VoiceOver. Teddy addresses this issue through Apple's Foundation Models and SpeechAnalyzer APIs to take action on behalf of the user through natural language processing and tool calling.”




He built the app after being inspired by his grandfather. Teddy is currently available in beta through TestFlight and also as an open source project on GitHub.



Kate created ActivTimer, an app that focuses on reducing screen time while promoting physical activity. She built the app using SwiftUI and other modern Apple technologies.



Kate described the app as a “screen time tracker and workout app all in one.”



She added, “It keeps track of how long you're on your screen and alerts you with a sound to get up and move, or to do some mindfulness.”



The app is not available on the App Store, but its source code is accessible on GitHub.



Victoria Ali, a developer from Argentina, introduced Write: A Literary Journey, a narrative puzzle app that explores the lives of influential female authors. The app combines storytelling with interactive gameplay.




Victoria said, “Through an immersive 3D onboarding I designed in SceneKit with models I built in Blender like her vintage Remington typewriter and her yellow tulips I wanted to create a bridge to feel her close again.”




Her project also serves as a tribute to her grandmother, adding a personal touch to the experience.



These projects show how creativity and purpose continue to shape the future of app development.