Apple Preps Gaming App for New Smart Devices

Apple is rumored to be developing a dedicated gaming application, potentially revolutionizing how users experience games across its ecosystem.

According to Bloomberg, recent reports confirm whispers from late last year suggesting Apple wants to establish itself as a dominant player in gaming. The tech giant may unveil this ambitious project during its Worldwide Developers Conference on June 9.

The application could come pre-installed on all new Apple devices, including Apple TV, functioning much like Steam does for PC - serving as a unified hub for games, achievements, social features, and leaderboards while replacing the existing Game Center. Insiders suggest a Mac version may let users access games obtained outside the App Store.

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

Though not traditionally seen as a gaming powerhouse, Apple's devices dominate mobile gaming globally. iPhones generate roughly two-thirds of App Store revenue from games and in-app purchases. However, Bloomberg's sources indicate the new app might not immediately change perceptions that Macs lag behind PCs for serious gaming.

The gaming application is expected to launch alongside the next iOS update, anticipated this September.

For those curious about Apple's existing gaming offerings, we've got you covered on Apple Arcade's premium subscription library.

This development comes amid Apple's high-profile legal clash with Epic Games regarding App Store policies. Recently, Fortnite's iOS return propelled it to the top of U.S. App Store charts, despite maintaining its alternative payment system that originally caused its 2020 removal after circumventing Apple's 30% revenue share.