Apple to Launch Dedicated Gaming App Across All Devices [Report]

Apple is planning to launch a dedicated gaming app on its devices later this year, according to a new report from Bloomberg. The company will reportedly preinstall the app on iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple TV, aiming to better position its platforms for gamers and developers.

According to people familiar with the plans, the new software will act as a central hub for games, consolidating titles, achievements, leaderboards, and communications. This initiative appears designed to enhance the overall gaming experience on Apple's ecosystem. The app's introduction is expected at Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference, which kicks off June 9, around the same time Nintendo is anticipated to launch its Switch 2.

The upcoming gaming app is slated to feature editorial content from Apple about new titles, provide access to the App Store's game section, and promote Apple Arcade, the company's $6.99 per month subscription service. It's set to replace the existing Game Center, a social gaming network first introduced in 2010 that didn't gain significant traction. Notably, the Mac version of this new app will reportedly support games downloaded from outside the Mac App Store.


Apple has made some inroads in gaming recently. High-end titles like Resident Evil and Assassin's Creed have come to its platforms, and games currently account for about two-thirds of App Store revenue. The company also recently acquired RAC7 Games, the studio behind the popular title Sneaky Sasquatch. While Mac gaming has seen improvements with faster Apple silicon and new porting tools, it's still often perceived as lagging behind Windows. Early testers of the new app reportedly believe that while it will make gaming more prominent, it may not significantly alter this perception among makers of high-end titles.

The new gaming app is one of several features planned for the next major software updates, likely releasing to the public in September. Apple is also reportedly preparing a major user interface overhaul, codenamed "Solarium," for iOS 19, iPadOS 19, and macOS 16, designed to be more cohesive and inspired by visionOS. Other anticipated iOS 19 features include AI-powered battery management, an AI health coach, a live translation feature for AirPods, and a system for syncing captive Wi-Fi logins. The Vision Pro is also expected to gain an eye-scrolling feature.

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