Apple is set to enhance its presence in the gaming world with a new dedicated app, which is slated for debut during its Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) on June 9. According to a report from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, this app will come preinstalled on iPhones, iPads, Macs, and Apple TV units later this year. The initiative aims to create a more unified experience for gamers across the Apple ecosystem.
The app is intended to function as a comprehensive hub for all gaming-related activities. It will serve as a launcher for games, track achievements, manage leaderboards, and enable player communication. Additionally, the app will showcase curated editorial content from Apple, provide access to the App Store’s gaming section, and promote Apple Arcade, the company’s monthly gaming subscription service priced at $6.99.
This strategy seems to align with the impending launch of the much-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 console, which is expected to be revealed shortly before WWDC. Apple’s efforts indicate a desire to cater to both casual and serious gamers, especially as popular titles like Resident Evil and Assassin’s Creed become increasingly available on its platforms. Furthermore, this new gaming app will replace Game Center, which has not seen much use since its introduction in 2010.
Notably, for Mac users, the app will support games downloaded from sources outside the App Store, addressing long-standing criticisms about the Mac’s gaming limitations. In addition, Apple has been expanding its content offerings; it recently acquired RAC7 Games, known for Sneaky Sasquatch, signaling a deeper commitment to original game development. Despite these steps, Apple faces challenges in attracting hardcore gamers and developers, as the Mac lags behind Windows in performance and AAA game support.
The new gaming app will be part of a larger iOS update scheduled for release this fall along with new iPhones. This update will also include features like a redesigned user interface, improved AI-powered battery and health tools, and a revamped Translate app. With its renewed focus on gaming, Apple aims to be seen as a serious contender in the gaming arena, but whether it can shift perceptions among core gamers remains uncertain.