In a move to strengthen its position in the gaming sector, Apple is developing a standalone gaming app for iOS, combining aspects of both the App Store and Game Center, according to sources close to 9to5Mac. This gaming hub is intended to offer users a centralized space for gaming activities while complementing the current Game Center.
Key Features of the New Gaming Hub
The app will reportedly feature multiple tabs, including “Play Now,” which will showcase editorial content and game recommendations. Users can also view their gaming activities, track achievements, and access leaderboards within the app. Apple plans to include both App Store games and Apple Arcade titles in this new hub, offering players a broad selection of content.
Additional features in the app will likely promote upcoming gaming events and important updates, helping players stay connected with the latest in mobile gaming. The app is expected to leverage Apple’s social ecosystem by integrating FaceTime and iMessage to enable player communication. Apple is also experimenting with mini-games via App Clips, which could allow developers to offer sample gameplay experiences.
Aiming to Capture a Larger Gaming Audience
This new app appears to function similarly to the Xbox app for iPhone, allowing users to monitor their gaming status, stay updated on friends’ activities, and browse for new games. Apple’s goal with this project seems to be to make its ecosystem more appealing to gamers, creating a platform that supports both casual players and more serious gaming communities.
Expansion of Apple Arcade and Developer Tools
Apple currently offers Apple Arcade, a subscription service providing exclusive access to various games across iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple TV for $6.99 per month. With the release of iOS 18 and macOS 15, Apple has also introduced enhanced tools for developers to port Mac games to iOS, a strategic move to enrich its mobile gaming library.
Launch Timeline
While Apple’s gaming app is still under development, it remains unclear whether it will debut with a future iOS 18 update or as part of iOS 19. The app is a testament to Apple’s commitment to enhancing the gaming experience on iOS, potentially marking a new era in mobile gaming on Apple devices.
