Back in October, 9to5Mac shared a big scoop: Apple was working on a new app just for video games. Now, Bloomberg has confirmed it. This app is expected to launch later this year with iOS 19.
What the App Will Do
This new gaming app will serve as a hub for all things related to gaming. Think achievements, leaderboards, and other fun stuff. Basically, it’s set to replace Game Center, which many users have long forgotten.
It will also show off games from both the App Store and Apple Arcade. And that’s not all—Apple plans to bring the same app to the Mac too. That version might even work with games you download outside of the App Store.
A Closer Look at the Features
Here’s what we already know about the app, based on earlier reports:
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It will have several tabs to help you navigate.
- It will also have a “Play Now” section, which hand-picked suggestions.
- It will also give you access to features such as tracking your game progress, checking on your friends and seeing your game library.
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The app will show challenges, scores, and achievements.
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It will promote special events and highlight big game updates.
Social Features and App Clips
Apple is also testing ways to make the app more social. It may let people chat through FaceTime or iMessage while gaming. The company is also looking into letting developers build mini-games using App Clips—small parts of apps that load fast.
Apple Buys a Popular Game Studio
In another interesting move, Apple has just bought RAC7, the game developer behind Sneaky Sasquatch. That game is one of the most popular on Apple Arcade. This deal shows Apple is getting serious about gaming.
When Will It Launch?
All of this is coming soon. Apple will officially unveil iOS 19, macOS 16, and more at its WWDC event. It starts on June 9 with a keynote.
If you’re a gamer who uses Apple devices, this new app might make it easier and more fun to find and play games, no matter what device you’re on.
