Apple to Pre-Load New Gaming App on Latest Devices

Apple is reportedly developing a dedicated gaming application to strengthen its position in the industry.

A recent Bloomberg report corroborates earlier rumors suggesting the tech giant aims to establish itself as a major player in gaming. Insiders indicate the company plans to unveil the app during Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference on June 9.

The application is expected to come pre-installed on all new Apple devices, including Apple TV, later this year. Functioning similarly to PC platforms like Steam, it will serve as a centralized hub for games, integrating achievements, leaderboards, messaging features, and replacing Apple's current Game Center service. Sources suggest the app will also support Mac games downloaded outside the App Store ecosystem.

While Apple hasn't officially commented, its acquisition of Sneaky Sasquatch developer RAC7 Games hints at growing gaming ambitions.

Though not traditionally known for game development, Apple devices dominate mobile gaming - iPhones account for most gaming sessions worldwide, with games generating roughly two-thirds of App Store revenue. However, Bloomberg's sources note the app likely won't immediately alter perceptions that Macs remain less capable than Windows PCs for premium gaming experiences.

The gaming application is anticipated to launch alongside iOS 18 this September.

For those curious about Apple's existing game offerings, our comprehensive guide details everything available through Apple Arcade.

This development comes amid Apple's ongoing legal dispute with Epic Games regarding Fortnite's iOS availability and App Store revenue models. Recently, Fortnite's return to iPhones propelled it to the top of U.S. App Store charts following its 2020 removal after Epic implemented alternative payment systems bypassing Apple's 30% commission.