Apple to Add Preloaded Gaming App Across Devices

Apple is reportedly developing a dedicated gaming application focused exclusively on the gaming market.

A recent Bloomberg report corroborates late 2023 rumors suggesting the tech giant aims to position itself as a market leader for gamers and developers. More details are expected during Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference announcement on June 9.

Sources indicate the company intends to preload this gaming hub across its entire ecosystem later this year, including Apple TV. Functioning similarly to Steam on PC, the platform will consolidate gaming features like achievements, leaderboards, and social interactions while replacing the existing Game Center. According to Bloomberg, macOS compatibility will allow access to games downloaded outside the App Store.

While Apple declined official comment, its acquisition of Sneaky Sasquatch studio RAC7 Games suggests strategic moves in the gaming space.

Though not traditionally associated with gaming development, Apple devices dominate mobile gaming – iPhones generate nearly two-thirds of App Store revenue through premium games and microtransactions. However, Bloomberg's sources note macOS still faces perception challenges regarding high-end gaming performance compared to Windows systems.

The gaming platform is expected to launch alongside iOS 18 this September.

For those curious about Apple Arcade's premium subscription catalog, our detailed guide covers all available titles.

The tech giant continues its legal dispute with Epic Games concerning Fortnite's iOS availability and broader App Store monetization policies. Recently, IGN reported Fortnite's triumphant return to iOS devices topped U.S. App Store charts following its reinstatement.

This marks Fortnite's return after its 2020 removal when Epic implemented direct payments circumventing Apple's 30% fee structure. Despite $1 billion+ in lost revenue during the five-year absence, Epic maintains its alternative payment system today.