Apple is preparing to unveil a dedicated gaming app for iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple TV at its upcoming Worldwide Developer Conference (WWDC), according to a report by Bloomberg. Designed as a central hub for gamers, the new app will allow users to launch installed games, track achievements, view leaderboards, and access editorial content.
Set to replace the aging Game Center, the app is expected to debut officially with the next version of iOS in September. Similar in function to Microsoft’s Xbox app for iPhone, it will also give users access to games available through the App Store.
Notably, the Mac version of the app will offer expanded functionality by supporting games downloaded from sources outside the App Store, a pretty significant shift for Apple’s typically closed ecosystem.
The move comes amid growing interest in gaming from the tech giant. Apple recently confirmed it has acquired its first game studio, RAC7, the indie team behind Sneaky Sasquatch, a popular title on Apple Arcade. According to Digital Trends, RAC7 will continue to operate independently within Apple, maintaining its identity as a standalone studio.
This series of developments signals Apple’s increasing commitment to building a stronger presence in the gaming industry.
