A new report has lend further credence to last year’s claims Apple is working on game-focused iOS app that’ll integrate store, social features, achievements and more – with the company now said to be “seeking to sell gamers and developers on the idea that it’s a leader in the market.”
Word that Apple was looking to expand its gaming strategy with a dedicated iOS app first surfaced last year, when news site 9to5 Mac reported efforts were underway at the company to combine the functionality of iOS’ App Store and its long-defunct Game Center service – which previously offered a centralised place to view likes of challenges, leaderboards, and achievements before the app was removed from iOS in 2016.
And now, eight months later, Bloomberg has corroborated 9to5’s story with a similar report, saying Apple is looking to preinstall the new gaming app on iPhone, iPad, and Apple TV set-top boxes later this year. There’s also talk of a Mac version, capable of displaying games downloaded outside of the App Store. As in 9to5’s earlier report, Bloomberg – citing “people with knowledge of the matter” – says the app will serve as a launcher for games and centralise in-game achievements, leaderboards, communications, and other activities.
It’ll reportedly also feature internally produced editorial content highlighting new games available within the app, which will include those from the App Store’s game section and the company’s Apple Arcade game subscription service. Bloomberg says the app is due to launch as part of Apple’s next iOS version, iOS 19, and will be showcased during the company’s Worldwide Developers Conference on 9th June ahead of a September arrival.